Review: Shamed

Shamed by Linda Castillo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Each time I read another Kate Burkholder case I learn more about the Amish community. By now I know that there are several levels of practice of the tenets of the religion but one thing that is true, no matter how strict the family, the Bishop is to be obeyed unconditionally. He is the arbitor of all things Amish and will determine what is right according to God's will and cannot be questioned under pain of excommunication--banning and shunning by all others,including one's family.

Imagine then a case in which two Bishops and a Midwife determine the fate of a newborn. Seven years later their decision will lead to tragedy and anguish and grief for many. Despite the events, however, the Amish keep secrets and refuse to allow the Englische police to know what has transpired. Although Kate is former Amish she is still and outsider and only the Bishops are arbiters of the Ordnung and its rules.

Now, there is a missing child and the case goes nowhere with the Amish either unknowing or unwilling to share what they know with the police.

View all my reviews