What a great addition to this series! I am already hooked on Katie Burkholder’s stories, courtesy of Linda Castillo, and they keep getting better and better!

Rage begins with a terrible, brutal murder of a young Amish man. Kate and Tomasetti are quickly involved with trying to figure out who did it and why, and then there’s another body found. This story is set in Painter’s Mill in the punishing summertime, and I could feel what the heat and humidity feels like. There was an alarming increase in the sense of danger in this one, and I was worried about Katie especially, since she seems to be a magnet for all the bad guys who just want to get rid of her. The author has the ability to show us some of the most depraved behavior humans can exhibit and make us sit on the edge of our seats waiting to see what happens next.

If you’re a suspense lover, as I am, I highly recommend this series. I’ve enjoyed every one of them and the books are getting better and better. Kate keeps going in without backup and danger is waiting for her, even though we can see it coming.

Four stars!

I received a copy of the digital ARC via the publisher and NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

4.25/5

This is one of my favorite series and Book 17 didn’t disappoint. These books can be read as a stand-alone.

Once again the author tackles a tough topic from our headlines and the Amish community is not immune to this. When a young Amish man is brutally murdered, Kate is on case. Then more murders are uncovered. The murders are described and heavy police procedures are discussed. I love Kate and her cast of characters. These books always show the gruesome reality the police face, the family they become and how to balance work and home life. This was a fast paced read that had me turning pages late into the night. I can’t wait for the next book!

Thanks to MinotaurBooks and Netgalley for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.

RAGE (KATE BURKHOLDER, #17)
BY: LINDA CASTILLO

I flew through the very talented, LINDA CASTILLO latest installment in her fabulous Chief of Police, Kate Burkholder's investigations which makes this one #17, in this series, called, "RAGE." A friend recommended this series to me a few years ago, which I'm thrilled to have discovered these intriguing, and very suspenseful novels for how much they offer. The characters are always enjoyable, and I have gone back to the beginning before I decided to join in. I loved them all since they are always so well written and I'm always guaranteed a spellbinding mystery-thriller experience. I feel sad each time I finish one, and this one was no different. I think this can be read as a standalone since this author always inserts some background with enough content not to be repetitive, but so a new reader can orient themselves and enjoy each novel she writes. I would recommend to enhance this five star.- plus with each one earns to at least read the first one. However, it's not necessary as her team and Chief Kate have a backstory and I think that there have been a few changes, but they don't interfere with the immersive, and gripping narratives. The reason I read these as I don't usually read series, is because once I get past the graphic, discovery of the victims she is solving in the Painter's Mills, Ohio jurisdiction investigations that are in each subsequent crime procedural its not as hard since the initial description is detailed once for each victim. I'm pleased that the descriptions of the homicides are not as gruesomely overwhelming so brutal throughout the entire novels. That is the hardest part for me, which I easily overlook since, again this has proven to be the top favorite novel this year. This one was disturbing in how cruel the disregard for how murder gets attempted to hide it was so macabre that it seemed longer for me this time to feel unsettled. Very chilling in this one, but I know that I can feel safe, after that since it's the hardest portion, but it might not affect most people, but I struggled since I already know I'm sensitive. It's worth my initial discomfort since there is so much more clever and interesting content in how Kate proceeds to solve the crimes. This one called for extra resources, and due to Linda Castillo's great writing she makes each novel feel fresh. It is a magnificent gift for having this be her seventeenth, and I admire her imagination to accomplish each subsequent plot unique for I never tire of reading her, and her latest one is another fantastic success that makes her a must read. Quite the contrary in my case since I look forward to them. I think one huge reason is I love Kate's character, and John Tomasetti, her husband, who is supportive, and the other characters who with the rest of her team are so likable which helps counter balance the villains that make it hard for me to not describe each one a five star worthy addition. I have continued to find them all to be page turners that I sometimes think I know from each case leads me to question the characters that seem, guilty for various reasons. I'm always surprised by how sometimes I have an inclination of who did it, but even though that happens once in a while there are always more layers that keep me invested, and this one was no different. I was totally captivated so that I get so involved that before I know it the mystery is always much more complex, even while I might be able to be correct about certain people having some involvement. I applaud the author for always outsmarting me making it clear that I never totally predict the guilty characters until the author is ready to reveal who is behind the crime and why. This one had Amish victims which I always feel bad for the victims, since they lead such ethical and peaceful lives, but the horrible violence done is to these victims by how they're murdered for making bad choices. It makes me admire Kate for her courage, but I'm worried for her safety since I am on the edge of my seat wondering if she will survive this time. This one started off with a bang with how soon the action starts making this another exquisite reading experience. I read this thoroughly and was thrilled and loving it, since it was another pulse pounding, Electrifying novel in only one sitting. I will be recommending it to those who haven't discovered this series since It deserves to reach as wide of an audience as possible. I also find that these novels are so informative like in this installment when three siblings make a gruesome discovery while playing hide-and-seek. This begins with Kate getting alerted from her dispatcher in the sweltering heat with her officer Chuck Skidmore to an out of the way location where they realize a twenty-one year old Amish man has been murdered. He owned a business where both she and her husband bought trees to plant at their home. The details from discovering what they find at two crime scenes are thoroughly sequenced which the reader can rest assured to learn intriguing scientific methods used to understand the procedures. Additionally, how and why more experts like in this case requires two different fields of forensic help needed are explained in easy to digest prose adding how the victim can be identified. In this case I welcomed the members of her team which the author informed the new reader in a concise manner with each recurring character that are like old friends. This is done so masterfully by this author that rewards the reader to learn in simple, but fascinating details in a fast paced narrative that elevates this to be intrigued while informative of cutting edge science. That is only one of many aspects that make this author a favorite in this genre for me, and I suspect is a reason to not miss out on discovering how for a crime procedural this one offers stimulating content that I don't find in others. There are many elements like the characterization, and plot both are spectacular with each novel in this series, and I think for an author to accomplish this each time especially considering that this is number seventeen is nothing but amazing. I don't know how this author can write such ELECTRIFYING content that makes every page so enjoyable that there's always suspense and admiration that makes this series so addictive. She is rare in the Mystery/Thriller genre. I think that if you haven't yet discovered this series, and most of the friends that I know have been enthralled to the same degree that I am, continue to love this author's newest novel each time rating it five stars which I wish I could give more than that amount. This is not my favorite genre, but I have in the past and still occasionally read it, but I can tell you there are very seldom occasions that I love them as much as every single time with this newest one reminding me why I make an exception to include Linda Castillo, among my top favorite novelists. I end up knowing that it's going to be hard to feel so as absorbed in whatever follows next on my reading list as they don't compete with this reading experience, with her newest one called, "RAGE," is another superior addition that I hope this review has conveyed how I know for this genre and many others that this is the best novel that I've read so far this year. Come read this for the unrivaled lovable characters, you will love learning new ways to admire why they are so easy to connect with. Learn about the Amish way of life. Enjoy the adrenaline fueled mystery that you are I can assure is thrilling, memorable reading experiences.

ANOTHER BRILLIANT & STUNNING novel that by far exceeded my expectations. AND I'M PICKY!

Publication Date: July 8, 2025! AVAILABLE NOW TO PURCHASE! A FANTASTIC SERIES, BUT YOU CAN START WITH THIS ONE & BE SURE TO LOVE THIS UNIQUE CRIME PROCEDURAL!

Thank you to Net Galley, Linda Castillo, and St. Martin's Press, and Minotaur Books, for generously providing me with my spectacular ARC, in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own, as always.

#Rage #LindaCastello #StMartinsPress #MinotaurBooks #NetGalley

Loved the story and characters as much in 17 as I did in 1. More Kate! A solid, page-turning mystery that keeps the series going strong. Can’t wait for the next one!

Thank you #NetGalley and Linda Castillo for the 17th installment in the Kate Burkholder series.

I have really enjoyed this series even though I haven’t read them all. It’s clear they are well-researched and written.

I will definitely have to go backwards and catch the rest of LC’s books.

The new Kate Burkholder novel is great summer reading! Rage starts off with a gruesome murder and doesn't let up. Kate, the ex-Amish police chief of Painter's Mill, is tested repeatedly in this fabulous police procedural. I have been a fan of this series since the beginning, and I believe it continues to improve. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy.

Summer has arrived with a vengeance in Painters Mill, and a macabre discovery by three Amish children brings the quiet to a grinding halt. Chief of Police Kate Burkholder arrives on scene to find the dismembered body of 21-year-old Samuel Yutzy, a local Amish man who owned a successful landscaping business. What twisted individual murdered him in such a sadistic way?

The investigation has barely begun when, miles away, a second body is found, stuffed into a barrel and dumped in a ravine. The deceased is 21-year-old Aaron Shetler, Samuel Yutzy’s best friend. With a heat wave bearing down, Kate learns quickly that, for reasons she doesn’t understand, no one is willing to talk about what happened to the men. Just as she begins to fear the case may be hopeless, a mystery woman comes forward and reveals that fun-loving Aaron and Samuel had recently befriended some very unsavory characters—individuals who may have ties to a larger, more sinister, black market.

Fast-paced and captivating. This was interesting to me on a cultural level (I didn't know much about the Amish), but the story itself definitely kept me hooked from the beginning. Highly recommended! 4⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

Rage is the latest novel in the Kate Burkholder police procedural series. In a small Ohio town, a young Amish man recently back from his rumspringa is found dead in the woods cut into eleven pieces. Police Chief Kate is on the case. She suspects a non-local is the killer because locals would have known to bury the body deeper to avoid animal scavengers. Could something that happened during the dead man’s rumspringa have led to his death? Only canny police work, exacting forensic science, and plain old canvassing can solve this case.

It is always fun to follow a case to its conclusion. If you can guess its secrets before the detective, even better. Rage is the perfect book for armchair detectives. Its clues are in plain sight, along with its red herrings. See if you can figure out whodunnit as well as what the deceased got involved with during his rumspringa. I had fun and so will you. 4 stars!

Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me with an advanced review copy.

I always look forward to the next Kate Burkholder Book and I surely enjoyed both the e-book and the audio version that I listened to afterwards. The audio version nicely presented, made it easy to listen to. As with any series it is better to read them in order because of the character development and the connection between the various people. This story brings to light that the year of freedom for young adults does not always have a good ending. The unbending attitude of the fathers with their strong beliefs in what is right or wrong is not helping their sons needing help and understanding to be accepted back into the Amish community. For the girls add shame of what they might have done during their freedom. Kate does jump to action a bit too early instead of waiting till backup arrives which gets her in bad situations.

The first ARC I received from Linda Castillo was The Burning (Kate Burkholder #16) in the summer of 2024. After realizing it was part of a series, I devoured the first three books before diving into book #16. Let me just say: I love the Kate Burkholder novels!

Kate was born into the Amish community but chose not to return after her rumspringa, a decision that still causes tension with her family. Now, as Chief of Police in a small town with a large Amish population nearby, her unique background allows her to navigate delicate cases others can’t. She understands the culture, customs, and silence that often comes with Amish crime scenes.

In Rage, the seventeenth installment in the series, two young men are found brutally murdered—both at a pivotal crossroads between the modern world and returning to be baptized into the Amish faith. Kate throws herself into the investigation with her usual laser focus… until her own life is threatened. Will she back off or fight harder to bring justice?

Kathleen McInerney’s narration is pitch-perfect, especially her nuanced portrayal of the Amish voices. Kate Burkholder book #17, Rage, released July 8th, so you can grab this enthralling FOUR STAR read now!

Thank you to NetGalley, Linda Castillo, St. Martin’s Press, and Macmillan Audio for the gifted ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review—it was quite the intense journey!

I've been a big fan of this series since its inception. 17 books in, you'd think it would start getting a bit stale, but you'd be wrong. Castillo knocks it out of the park with this latest one. There is so much action and a great storyline that had me turning the pages at lightning speed.

I am such a fan of this series! I jumped in around book 14 with no issues. I love Kate’s character and the insight to what it may be like to leave the Amish life. It’s such an interesting take on a police procedural. I do wish we got slightly more of her home life with Tomasetti. Overall, a great read that I highly recommend!

Rage by Linda Castillo is another chilling, fast-paced addition to the Kate Burkholder series that doesn’t hold back. This time, Chief of Police Kate is faced with one of the most brutal cases of her career—two Amish best friends found dead under horrifying circumstances. As the investigation peels back layers of secrecy, Castillo masterfully explores the darker edges of Amish life, pushing Kate into the heart of a complex web involving violence, loyalty, and an ominous black market.

The strength of Rage lies in its atmospheric tension and Kate’s relentless drive for justice. Castillo’s pacing is sharp, the stakes feel personal, and the psychological elements add a haunting depth. While longtime fans will appreciate how the plot expands on Kate’s internal struggles and small-town dynamics, even newcomers will be drawn in by the grisly mystery. It’s a gripping read that delivers both thrills and emotional weight, earning its place as one of the stronger installments in the series.

2.5 grotesque stars not rounded up.

Trigger warnings: Violence, dismemberment, Foul language and human trafficking

The opening was dramatic- and violent. There was too much graphic description describing a dismemberment for me. I had not expected so much swearing, including the fbomb in a novel following a former Amish woman/ detective. Rage focused very little on the Amish community, mostly on gruesome details about victims and continual visits to the Cheetah Lounge strip club. Having enjoyed Castillo’s last book, I was disappointed.

I ended up doing a lot of speed reading, as I did not like the book due to reasons in the first paragraph.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Loved this fast-paced, well-written Amish mystery!

I love her books, but this one wasn't her best. The mystery was good, but I'm not sure why she kept having Kate, make stupid decisions time and time again.

Another excellent Kate Burkholder novel

I have read all of the Kate Burkholder novels by Linda Castillo and Rage is one of her best. These books are very well written and well plotted. Our heroine is brave and believes in the legal process, but, as chief of police, faces evil and danger. Definitely a must read, Rage may not, however, be a good choice to read before bedtime!

Thank you to the publisher who lent me a time limited e-arc via netgalley with no obligation. This review is optional and my own opinion.

Not once have I ever been disappointed in a Kate Burkholder novel. This is an auto read series for me. I love the Amish/Englisher line these books hover over. And Rage was no different.

In this Kate Burkholder saga she is pulled into the dark world of human trafficking after two Amish boys turn up dead. First, Chief of Police Kate Burkholder arrives on scene to find the dismembered body of 21-year-old Samuel Yutzy. Then shortly there after a second body is found, stuffed into a barrel and dumped in a ravine. The deceased is 21-year-old Aaron Shetler, Samuel Yutzy’s best friend.

One of the things I love so much about this whole series is the strength of Kate. She gets knocked out, punched, shot at, kidnapped (not all in this book) and yet she dusts herself off and gets back at it. Plus her steady eddy, supportive and quiet relationship with John Tomasetti who works in the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is a fun little thread throughout.

If you're looking for engaging, original, mystery with grit and heart, this is the book series for you!

RAGE was another thrilling installment in the Kate Burkholder series, which is consistently good. The mysteries are always new and interesting, and love the consistent insight into Amish life. This continues to be one on my most reliably entertaining series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review RAGE.

If you want to read a mystery/ thriller this one is for you.
Linda Castillo dies not disappoint with this one .
The murder of 2 friends in a small Amish town will have you
reading non-stop to find out what happened!

Thanks netgalley for this eArc!