Dove in the Window (1999) by Earlene Fowler is the seventh entry in the beloved Benni Harper Mystery series, a cozy yet compelling whodunit set in the sun-drenched Central California town of San Celina. Folk art curator Benni Harper finds herself entangled in a murder investigation when a Vietnam veteran is found dead, his killing seemingly linked to a controversial war memorial quilt displayed at her museum. As Benni pieces together clues hidden in the quilt’s intricate patterns—particularly the symbolic “dove in the window” block—she also navigates small-town tensions between veterans, activists, and longtime residents, all while balancing her growing feelings for Police Chief Gabe Ortiz.
Fowler’s richly textured prose weaves quilt lore, local history, and human drama into a story that’s as much about healing old wounds as it is about solving crimes. Benni’s wit, resilience, and deep ties to her community shine, making this a standout for fans of character-driven mysteries. The novel’s exploration of Vietnam War legacies and the power of folk art adds depth without sacrificing the series’ signature warmth.
A perfect read for those who love Maggie Sefton’s knitting mysteries or Susan Wittig Albert’s herbal sleuth, especially when paired with a quilt and a cup of tea.
