I have read all of Earlene Fowler’s Benni Harper mystery series.  I enjoyed the story of Benni’s relationship with her husband Gabe as much, if not more, than the mystery storyline in each book.  Therefore, I was excited when I learned Fowler had a new book outside the series.  I thought I would get more of her keen insight on relationships.

When Ruby’s husband of less than a year dies in a single car crash, she discovers he has a family she never knew about.  In trying to figure out who her husband really was, Ruby discovers a family and town with many secrets.

Unfortunately, The Saddlemaker’s Wife did not live up to my expectations.  The characters were overly burdened with tragic pasts, and they suffered from guilt over past choices.  Although the story is set in a small town, the way the main characters run into each other on the street or in the café seems too convenient.  I think Fowler was trying to create edgier characters, à la  Jo-Ann Mapson, but missed her mark.  Their personalities were not strong enough to evoke either feelings of like or dislike.

I’m still looking forward to the next Benni Harper mystery though…