In truth, after the shock of my husband’s murder last spring, every day in my life involves struggling to survive and be useful. I traveled all the way from Prussia’s Pomeranian region to join Fridolin on his Wisconsin farm—a challenging trip in 1855! Arriving to learn that he was dead left me in a precarious financial position…and a lonely one.

Still, I have managed to hang on to the farm, and I am slowly making friends. Two of the dearest are Karoline Ketzler, a professional tinsmith, and her sweet daughter Jacobine. Yesterday I traveled with the Ketzler family to the Watertown market so Karoline could sell her wares and I could sell my knitted goods—everything from delicate lace shawls to sturdy, warm socks. Knitting is my one true talent, and I did well.

I even heard an orator named Carl Schurz denounce the evils of human bondage. That cause is both dear and personal to me—although since I maintain a secret hiding spot for runaway slaves on my property, it would be dangerous for me to speak up. Nonetheless, I was heartened to hear the man publicly condemn the vile institution.

Sadly, any morsel of comfort I might have taken from my earnings or the eloquent speech did not last long. Long after dark, Jacobine arrived at my farm begging for my help. Her father was dead, her mother had disappeared, and shock and fear had rendered her almost insensible.

Needless to say, the coming days will be difficult as I tend to Jacobine. Deputy John Barlow ordered me to leave the murder investigation to him, but honestly, he doesn’t know how to question women. I’m resolved to find answers…and can only pray that the killer doesn’t strike again before I do.

The Solace of Stars, A Hanneke Bauer Mystery Book #2
Genre: Historical
Release: July 2023
Format: Print, Digital
Purchase Link

Four months after her turbulent arrival, Pomeranian immigrant Hanneke Bauer is still struggling to feel at home on the Wisconsin farm she inherited from her husband. She does savor a growing friendship with tinsmith Karoline Ketzler, but that solace vanishes when Karoline’s daughter Jacobine finds her father dead from a vicious attack.

When the deputy sheriff’s suspicions fall on Karoline, Hanneke employs her own talents to investigate the crime. The search reveals dangerous cultural rifts and astonishing family secrets. Hanneke’s tenacity and intellect help edge her closer to the truth…but will her efforts provoke the killer to strike again?

About the author
Former museum curator Kathleen Ernst is the author of The Hanneke Bauer Mysteries, The Chloe Ellefson series, and many children’s mysteries. Honors for her work include Agatha and Edgar Award nominations. Visit kathleenernst.com to learn more.

All comments are welcomed.