Hello John Santana Fans,

One of the questions I’m asked most often is how Detective John Santana has changed over the years, and whether I planned his evolution or let the stories shape him. As I look back on the series, from White Tombs to the latest, Shadow Falls, I’m struck by how Santana has grown—not just as a detective, but as a person.

The Making of a Complex Detective

Santana began as a man haunted by his past, carrying the weight of personal tragedy from his childhood in Colombia. In White Tombs, he’s driven by a relentless pursuit of justice, sometimes at the expense of his own well-being. Readers have told me they were drawn to his sense of duty, but also to his vulnerability—a man who, despite his tough exterior, struggles with loss and the search for belonging.

As the series has unfolded, Santana’s character has deepened. Each case—from the chilling murder in The Black Minute to the tangled conspiracies of Shadow Falls—has forced him to confront not only the darkness in others, but also within himself. He’s learned to trust his instincts, rely on his partner Gabriel Cruz, and open up to those around him. The city of St. Paul, with its layered history and hidden corners, has both tested and shaped him—much as it shapes all of us.

Why Character Growth Matters in Crime Fiction

For me, the best mysteries aren’t just about solving the crime—they’re about how the investigation changes those involved. Santana’s journey is one of resilience and redemption. He’s made mistakes, faced moral dilemmas, and sometimes paid a steep price. But through it all, he’s never lost sight of his core values: justice, compassion, and the hope that even in a world full of shadows, the truth can prevail.

If you’d like to see how Santana’s character has evolved from his first case to his latest, you can find the full list of the series on my books page. Each novel offers a new challenge, a new facet of Santana, and a deeper dive into the city that has become as much a character as the detective himself.

Special Offer for New and Returning Readers

For a limited time, you can download a free e-book copy of White Tombs—the book that started Santana’s journey—by visiting the mailing list page. Share it with a friend or revisit the roots of Santana’s story.

Upcoming Events

Join me on Monday, June 16, at 7:00 p.m., at Lucky's 13 Pub in Mendota for Minnesota Mystery Night, where I'll be interviewed by my friend and author of the thrilling Pen Wilkinson series, Brian Lutterman. Come early, enjoy a wonderful dinner, and meet the authors beginning at 5:30 p.m. Reservations are needed. To reserve your seat and for more information click the link HERE.

• Stay up to date on my latest signings and talks by checking the events calendar on my website.
• Watch for news on audiobook releases and exclusive giveaways in the coming months.

Thank you for joining me on Santana’s journey. Your feedback, support, and passion for these stories mean everything. As always, stay curious and keep sleuthing! 🕵️‍♂️📚

Christopher