“Don’t ever underestimate the judicious nature of Amish women,” I tell him. “One look at you and they knew we’re sleeping together.”

“I have a whole new respect for them.”

I run my hands over the fabric, taking in the intricate stitching, the beautiful patchwork of colors, and I can’t help but think of the strong, capable hands that created it.

“It’s an heirloom.” I bring the quilt to my face and breath in deeply, not surprised when it smells of lavender and cinnamon and for an instant, I’m transported to that homey little shop on Main Street.

“It’s the only thing I miss about being Amish,” I whisper.

“The quilting?”

I elbow him in the ribs. “Being part of … something. The camaraderie. The friendship. Especially among the women. They don’t have easy lives.”

“It’s nice.” Wrapping his hands around my upper arms, he turns me to face him. “I’m assuming those are tears of happiness.”

I feel a quick wash of embarrassment. The heat of a blush. “Not a great way to start a meeting with my officers.”

“They might think you’re human if you’re not careful.”

I choke out a laugh. Pulling away from him, I set the card on the corner of my desk where I can see it. Together, we begin folding the quilt and tucking it back into the box.

“Going to look nice in our bedroom,” I say.

“You look nice in our bedroom.”

We look at each other and smile. “I’ll be home in a couple hours.”

“See you then, Chief.”

Also by Linda Castillo

ALSO BY LINDA CASTILLO

Sworn to Silence

Pray for Silence

Breaking Silence

Gone Missing

Her Last Breath

The Dead Will Tell

After the Storm

About the Author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda Castillo is the New York Times bestselling author of the Kate Burkholder novels, including Sworn to Silence, which was recently adapted into a Lifetime Original Movie titled An Amish Murder, starring Neve Campbell as Kate Burkholder. Castillo is the recipient of numerous industry awards, including a nomination by the International Thriller Writers for Best Hardcover Novel and the Daphne du Maurier Award of Excellence. She also received a nomination for the RITA. In addition to writing, Castillo’s other passion is horses. She lives in Texas with her husband and is currently at work on her next novel. You can sign up for email updates here.

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CONTENTS

Title Page

Copyright Notice

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Epigraph

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Also by Linda Castillo