I’m a big fan of a good murder mystery, especially when it’s paired with a unique plot. That’s exactly what Linda Castillo delivers in Sworn to Silence, the first book in her crime thriller series. What sets this novel apart is its setting—a quiet Amish town in Ohio—and the way it brings fresh life to the genre.

The story centers around Kate Burkholder, the local chief of police. She’s a strong, complex female lead who harbors a dark secret from her past. This secret is shared by her family, but that’s no comfort to Kate, since her family rarely speaks to her. Why? Because they’re Amish, and Kate left their community as a teenager, choosing a different path.

What I love about this book is how Castillo weaves Kate’s backstory into the narrative. The author’s research into Amish culture is evident, and she brings it to life with authenticity and respect. A particularly nice touch is the glossary of Amish terms included at the beginning of the book, which helps readers navigate the language used by the characters. Castillo also excels at creating the fictional town of Painters Mill, making it feel like a real place while staying true to the nuances of Amish life.

At the heart of the plot is a chilling cold case: a series of murders that occurred sixteen years ago and have now resurfaced in the same town. Is the original killer back, or is there a copycat on the loose? One thing’s for sure: you won’t see the identity of the killer coming. The twist is unexpected, and throughout the story, you’ll realize you can’t trust anyone—not even the people in law enforcement.

I didn’t want Sworn to Silence to end, but the good news is it’s just the beginning of a 17-book series. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment! However, be warned that the content of this book can be pretty dark, and some readers may find it unsettling. While I don’t want to spoil anything, I’d recommend researching any potential triggers before picking it up if you’re sensitive to certain topics.

This one is also a great pick for a book club, as it includes some great discussion questions in the back of the book! I really hope some of my friends decide to read this one, so we can talk about it together! If you’re part of a book club that covers thrillers, you should suggest it to your group (and maybe grab a copy from my Amazon affiliate link!)
Again, I really can’t wait to continue with this series! If you love a good, dark mystery, this one is totally waiting for you! Pick it up today!