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Breaking Even
A richly detailed frontier novel by the author of Billy the The Legend of El Chivato continues the saga of Texas outlaw Seth Strummar, who finally obtains enough justice to allow him to reconcile himself to his past.
445 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 1998
3 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Fackler
35 books3 followersElizabeth 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
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
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
January 21, 2025
"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.
"Fackler's work is highly realistic, feminist, violent, and sexually explicit." El Paso Times.
October 15, 2024
"Once again Fackler demonstrates her mastery of character-driven westerns in which women are the self-aware, self-reliant, and ultimately stronger players." Booklist
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews