Kate Burkholder by Linda Castillo
The Kate Burkholder series by Linda Castillo is a gripping collection of crime thrillers set in the Amish community of Painters Mill, Ohio. The series follows Kate Burkholder, a former Amish woman turned Chief of Police, as she solves chilling crimes while grappling with her own dark past.
Publication Order of Kate Burkholder Books
- Sworn to Silence (2009)
- Pray for Silence (2010)
- Breaking Silence (2011)
- Gone Missing (2012)
- Her Last Breath (2013)
- The Dead Will Tell (2014)
- After the Storm (2015)
- Among the Wicked (2016)
- Down a Dark Road (2017)
- A Gathering of Secrets (2018)
- Shamed (2019)
- Outsider (2020)
- Fallen (2021)
- The Hidden One (2022)
- An Evil Heart (2023)
- The Burning (2024)
- Rage (2025)
Sworn to Silence (2009)
The series begins with Kate Burkholder returning to Painters Mill as Chief of Police. A brutal murder shakes the town, and the crime bears eerie similarities to a series of killings from Kate’s past. As she investigates, Kate must confront the secrets she has kept hidden for years. This debut novel is a chilling introduction to Kate’s world, blending suspense with emotional depth.
Pray for Silence (2010)
In the second book, a horrific murder of an Amish family shocks the community. Kate’s investigation uncovers dark secrets about the victims, including a teenage girl leading a double life. As Kate delves deeper, she is forced to confront her own past while navigating the complexities of the Amish culture. The tension between Kate and her romantic interest, John Tomasetti, adds another layer to the story.
Breaking Silence (2011)
When an Amish family is found dead in their barn, Kate initially suspects a tragic accident. However, evidence soon points to foul play. As Kate uncovers a web of lies and abuse, she must race against time to prevent further tragedy. This book highlights Kate’s determination and her struggle to balance her personal and professional life.
Gone Missing (2012)
Kate teams up with John Tomasetti to investigate the disappearance of an Amish teenager. The case takes them across Ohio, revealing a pattern of missing girls. As the investigation unfolds, Kate faces challenges that test her resolve and her relationship with Tomasetti. This installment is a fast-paced and emotionally charged mystery.
Her Last Breath (2013)
A hit-and-run accident leaves an Amish father and his children dead. Kate’s investigation reveals that the incident was no accident. As she uncovers the truth, Kate is forced to confront her own feelings about family and loss. This book is a poignant exploration of grief and justice.
The Dead Will Tell (2014)
A decades-old murder comes to light when a man is found dead with a strange connection to the past. Kate must unravel the mystery while dealing with her own haunted memories. This book combines a gripping plot with a deep dive into the history of the Amish community.
After the Storm (2015)
A tornado devastates Painters Mill, unearthing human remains that lead to a decades-old mystery. Kate’s investigation uncovers secrets that some would kill to keep buried. This book showcases Kate’s resilience and her commitment to uncovering the truth, no matter the cost.
Among the Wicked (2016)
Kate goes undercover in an isolated Amish community to investigate the death of a teenage girl. As she delves deeper, she discovers a sinister undercurrent that threatens her life. This book is a thrilling exploration of trust, deception, and survival.
Down a Dark Road (2017)
Kate faces a personal dilemma when a childhood friend, now a convicted murderer, escapes from prison and seeks her help. As she investigates, Kate uncovers shocking truths about the case. This book is a powerful story of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.
A Gathering of Secrets (2018)
A barn fire reveals the charred remains of a young Amish man. As Kate investigates, she uncovers a web of secrets that shatter the community’s peaceful facade. This book is a masterful blend of suspense and emotional complexity.
Shamed (2019)
The kidnapping of an Amish girl and the murder of her grandmother lead Kate on a harrowing journey to uncover the truth. This book is a heart-pounding thriller that delves into themes of guilt, forgiveness, and justice.
Outsider (2020)
Kate shelters a former colleague who is on the run after witnessing a crime. As she investigates, Kate finds herself in the crosshairs of a dangerous conspiracy. This book is a tense and action-packed addition to the series.
Fallen (2021)
The murder of a former Amish woman brings Kate face-to-face with her own past. As she investigates, she uncovers a trail of lies and betrayal. This book is a gripping exploration of identity and belonging.
The Hidden One (2022)
Kate is called to investigate the murder of an Amish bishop. The case takes her to a remote community, where she uncovers long-buried secrets. This book is a compelling mystery with a richly detailed setting.
An Evil Heart (2023)
A brutal double murder shakes Painters Mill, and Kate must navigate a web of deceit to find the killer. This book is a chilling and emotionally charged thriller.
The Burning (2024) and Rage (2025)
The latest installments continue to showcase Kate’s determination and her ability to solve complex cases while dealing with her own personal struggles.
Why You’ll Love Kate Burkholder
The Kate Burkholder series offers a unique blend of crime, culture, and character development. Kate is a strong, relatable protagonist with a complex past. The series provides a fascinating glimpse into Amish life while delivering gripping mysteries. If you enjoy atmospheric thrillers with emotional depth, this series is for you.
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