Petunia Yoder holds an unusual title.  In her Amish community of Blueberry, Pennsylvania, the twenty-two-year-old is considered to be the youngest old maid. She doesn't fit the mold of what is considered to be a good wife. She is opinionated and speaks her mind and has no plans to change. She finds herself in an unusual situation when her best friend Eden is charged with the murder of Ike Smoker, the man Eden had hoped to marry. Asher Nash, the homicide detective assigned to the case, asks Petunia to help with the investigation as he is a stranger to the Amish community and he needs help communicating with them. Even though this is a highly unusual and unconventional request, Petunia agrees with the hope that she can clear her best friend.

Ike Smoker was probably the least-liked person in Blueberry, as he had almost no redeeming qualities. As Petunia and Asher dig deeper into the case, it becomes obvious that there is no shortage of suspects.  People that Petunia thought she knew well, lie to her without hesitation. As the story progresses, shocking secrets are revealed. Thinking they are close to catching the murderer, Petunia is placed in a life-threatening situation.  As for the murderer, I never would have guessed.

What I found especially appealing about MURDER OF AN AMISH BRIDEGROOM, by Patricia Johns, is that the premise is unusual and original.  I am hoping to read more about Petunia and Asher.  Highly recommended.