Texana and Fran are returning from viewing the mysterious Marfa lights when they run into a man and the woman dancing down the middle of the street. The woman turns out to be Ella Spivey, one of seven wealthy sisters living on a neighboring ranch; the man is introduced as Julian Row, with whom Ella is quite enamored.

During the Marfa Lights Festival, someone slips some payota powder into a drink meant for Julian. Several days later, Julian is found shot at close range, much in the same way a Mexican photographer who was squatting in Texana’s front yard was killed.

The detective immediately assumes both murders are connected to the heavy drug trafficking that occurs across the Texas/Mexico border. A closer look at Row’s past shows a connection to Howie Crosswell, a local artist whose first wife’s and daughters’ deaths are connected to Row.

Howie is arrested for Row’s murder, but while he is in jail, Texana draws a connection between the murdered Mexican, Howie’s new wife Cosme and the deputy sheriff, Rano Johnson.

Death of a Myth Maker is rich in southwest history and culture, including both Mexican and Native American customs and traditions. Allana Martin’s descriptions of living in the barren desert, literally miles from everyone, give a glimpse at a life rarely considered by many Americans.

High on Texana’s list of priorities is caring for her family and friends. When the claims of a young woman to see the image of the Virgin Mary turn the trading post into a heavily visited shrine, Texana allows it to continue for a while, not wanting to disturb the faithful.

While Death of a Myth Maker is an interesting look into a much different way of life, the murder of Julian Row takes a back seat to the southwest atmosphere. In fact, the murder of the photographer is solved by accident, rather than by astute detective work when the murderer assumes Texana has found out his secret and comes looking for her.

Texana's compassion for other people make her a likable character and a pet bobcat named Phoebe adds some smiles to this quick read with refreshing, real to life characters.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry