The Santa Shop — Tim Greaton

Skip Ralstat is a man so steeped in grief and despair that life seems no longer possible. After the death of his wife and child, Skip blames himself. He has given up his friends, his job and now, devoid of all hope, he survives on the mean streets of Albany. He knows it can't go on, that life must end...but will it? In "The Santa Shop" we get our first glimpse at the Samaritans Conspiracy, a secretive group of individuals who are seldom seen and never recognized. Also, don't miss "Red Gloves" the second novel in this emotional, life-affirming series. With Maine teenage corpses stacking up and her life crumbling around her, Lead Detective Priscilla Harris seeks out a red-gloved stalker who is either a murderer or a saint.A message from the author:Dear Readers,Thank you so much for considering my work.It surprises me how often I'm asked if I've ever been homeless or if "The Santa Shop" is in some way autobiographical. I've been fortunate to always have had a roof over my head but my childhood was pretty dark, a fact for which I do not fault my parents. They did the best they could, but I owe a great debt to a local childhood library and the hundreds of authors who showed me that life could one day be better. They were right, of course, but it's impossible to limp from the shadows of a difficult past without carrying scars, and that pain is what I believe readers feel in my work. Thank you again for taking the time. If you do choose to join Skip on his dark, emotional journey, it is my sincere hope that the ending will lead you to a brighter place. For my novels to help even one troubled soul find shelter, that would be success. Best wishes always,Tim Greaton