Badlands

by Elizabeth Fackler

After countless murders, hired gunman Seth Strummar retires to the Arizona Territory, determined to provide a better life for his family, but when the gorgeous and diabolical Lila Keats arrives in town to settle an old score with Strummar, the fragile peace of his new life is destroyed. Reissue.

320 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 6, 1996

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]

"The Seth Strummar series is more than a standard western shoot-'em-up. Seth is an outlaw by nature and chafes at civilization's conventions. His struggle to suppress his nature makes this novel unusual an worthwhile reading." Booklist

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

"Her expertise in presenting solid historical research in an entertaining manner is a tribute to her knowledge and experience." El Paso Times.

"A poignant novel, beautifully written, with one of the genre's most unique protagonists." Roundup Magazine.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

just an easy western, easy to read and easy to forget and an easy way to waste a few hours.

[Gabbi Krachenfels · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so ridiculous and so good AHHAHAH. If you love an old western this is where it’s at