Breaking Even

by Elizabeth Fackler

In this superbly detailed frontier novel featuring Texas outlaw Seth Strummer, our hero at last achieves a humble form of justice that allows him to break even with his past. When Seth falls in love with Hekuba Free, the sister of Joaquin's new bride, he hides their love from his wife while flaunting it in town. It's a deadly game of retribution as Seth must face down sheriff Joaquin in a final battle between two old adversaries.

The culminating novel in the critically acclaimed Seth Strummer series, this is the bittersweet tale of a man who must break free from his past before he can break even.

432 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 1, 1998

About the author

Elizabeth Fackler is an American author known for her works in the Western and mystery genres. Writing under both her own name and the pseudonym Eli Fackler, she has crafted multiple series, including the Seth Strummar Western series and the Devon Gray mystery series, as well as standalone novels. Her writing is recognized for its deep character development, moral complexity, and suspenseful narratives.
Born in Lansing, Michigan, Fackler pursued a career that combined her literary talents with her academic background. She graduated from the University of California, San Diego, and worked as a librarian for the Santa Fe Reporter before dedicating herself to writing full-time. Her Western novels, particularly those featuring the gunfighter Seth Strummar, aim to present a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of the frontier, exploring themes of redemption and personal transformation. She has stated that her goal was to depict the evolution of a morally corrupt man into a responsible member of society.
In the mystery genre, Fackler has gained a dedicated readership with her Devon Gray series, centered around a homicide detective in El Paso, Texas. The series, praised for its psychological depth and gripping storytelling, often delves into dark themes, including crime, justice, and the consequences of personal choices. Notable entries include Patricide, When Kindness Fails, Endless River, and Lucinda’s Summer Vacation, with critics highlighting her skillful character development and suspenseful plots.
Beyond her series fiction, Fackler has also written historical novels, such as Billy the Kid: The Legend of El Chivato, offering a fresh take on the legendary outlaw, and Texas Lily, a Western romance. Her works reflect a keen understanding of human nature, often depicting flawed yet compelling characters navigating complex moral landscapes.
Fackler continues to be recognized for her contributions to Western and crime fiction, crafting stories that blend historical authenticity with engaging narratives

Reviews

[Elizabeth Fackler-Sinkovitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Once again Fackler demonstrates her mastery of character-driven westerns in which women are the self-aware, self-reliant, and ultimately stronger players." Booklist.

"Fackler's work is highly realistic, feminist, violent, and sexually explicit." El Paso Times.

[Elizabeth Fackler-Sinkovitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Once again Fackler demonstrates her mastery of character-driven westerns in which women are the self-aware, self-reliant, and ultimately stronger players." Booklist