Blood Kin

by Elizabeth Fackler

Gunslinger Seth Strummer settles down after he falls in love, but the Texas Rangers, still considering him a vicious killer, continue to pursue him

204 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1992

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

[Sandi *~The Pirate Wench~* · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really good!
But..just found out there are 10 more books in the Seth Strummer series!
I would really like to know what happens later for Seth and Joanna.
These two were such fun characters!
The banter/humor between them was great!
Their making love times...tender but funny.
Sad that I have to say good bye to such endearing characters, but I'm not hunting down 10 more books!

[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 and worthwhile reading." Booklist.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a fan of Westerns but I randomly picked this up when I was 14 and really enjoyed it. Of course, it didn't change my world. I haven't read another Western since then but it was still a great book. The main character, Seth Strummer, is definitely something else but you like him anyway. His love interest is equally likable. She's remarkably strong for someone who's grown up in an abusive household. Definitely recommended for anyone who likes Westerns or has a passing interest in it.

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

"This very unusual western takes its inspiration from Last Tango in Paris more than Dry Gulch Ambush. It's full of intriguing characters who are surprising rather than predictable. Booklist.