On June 22, 2025, friends, family, and community members gathered at Bookish Boutique Downtown to celebrate the debut book signing of 29 Hours – A True Story of Pedophilia and Murder by first-time author Linda Kettelhut. The event marked the culmination of a powerful personal journey and the fulfillment of a heartfelt wish.
In 1986, Kettelhut served as the fifth alternate juror in a harrowing capital murder trial in San Luis Obispo County, California. What began as a civic duty soon became a life-altering experience. Compelled to understand the deeper layers of the case, Linda began documenting her perspective, determined to shed light on the victims’ stories and the chilling truth behind the crime.
Furnished with key materials by the prosecutor and sheriff, she embarked on extensive research. She interviewed the victims’ friends and neighbors—and ultimately, the convicted killer himself, who was then on death row at San Quentin. In the process, Kettelhut found herself woven into the story she was telling.
The crime was widely known at the time as “The Crime of the Century” in San Luis Obispo County. Her book offers a haunting, cautionary tale of trust and betrayal, telling the true story of young, vibrant women who, in their innocence and generosity, unknowingly welcomed a predator into their lives.
Although years had passed, Linda carried with her the wish to share this important story in her own words. That wish came to life thanks to the Covenant Care “My Wish” program and the dedicated efforts of VITAS Healthcare volunteer Cindi McLamb. Together, they partnered with Gatekeeper Press, who generously donated their editing, design, and publishing services to ensure Linda’s story was not only told—but beautifully published.
The result is 29 Hours – a compelling memoir, a cautionary narrative, and a remarkable tribute to resilience and justice. The book signing event was a testament to Linda’s perseverance and the power of community support.
My Wish is a program that grants wishes for hospice patients in our communities. To learn more about the program, visit our website at www.mywish.org to donate or for more information.
