Hello John Santana Fans,

Every month, the headlines seem to bring a new crime story into sharp focus—a case that grips the public imagination, sparks debate, and leaves a lasting mark on the communities involved. As a mystery author, I’m always fascinated by the intersection between the stories we read for suspense and the real-world events that remind us just how high the stakes can be.

True Crime: When Headlines Become History

This month, several cases have dominated the news cycle, from high-profile trials, as in the case of Elon Musk suing OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, to unsolved disappearances such as the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping. These stories don’t just provide fodder for fiction—they reveal the complexities of justice, the ripple effects on families, and the way entire cities, like Tucson, can be changed by a single event. In many ways, the real world offers mysteries every bit as layered and compelling as those faced by John Santana in the pages of my novels.

One recent case that caught my attention involved a decades-old cold case that ultimately linked notorious serial killer Ted Bundy to the 1974 murder of 17-year-old Utah teenager Laura Ann Aime—a crime finally solved through advances in DNA technology. The perseverance of investigators, the tenacity of families seeking answers, and the ethical dilemmas faced by law enforcement all echo themes I explore in the Santana series. These stories remind us that behind every headline is a web of relationships, secrets, and consequences that reach far beyond the crime scene.

From Fiction to Reality: The Impact of Crime Stories

Writing about crime—whether fictional or true—means grappling with the real impact these events have on people’s lives. In Every Broken Thing, Santana’s journey is shaped by the fallout of violence and betrayal, much like the communities affected by real-life crimes. As readers, we’re drawn to these stories for the suspense, but we stay for the insight they offer into human nature and the pursuit of justice.

If you’re interested in exploring the blurred lines between fact and fiction, you can find all the Santana mysteries—including the latest release—on my books page. Each novel is inspired by true events and the ongoing search for truth that defines both detectives and everyday people alike.

Thanks to the Oro Valley Library 

I recently had the pleasure of speaking at an event made possible by the generous invitation of Oro Valley librarian Bonnie Holmes. It was a terrific afternoon, with an engaged audience of sixty-two mystery readers, held in the Sun City Oro Valley auditorium. Their enthusiasm for the genre—and their thoughtful questions—made for a lively and memorable discussion. Opportunities like this are a reminder of how vibrant and passionate the mystery-reading community is, and I left the event both grateful and energized by the experience.

Highlights & Ways to Connect

If your book club—large or small—is looking to add something special to an upcoming meeting, I’d be delighted to join you, either in person or via Zoom. I truly enjoy connecting with readers of the John Santana mysteries, hearing your thoughts on the stories, and answering your questions about the characters, the writing process, and what’s coming next. These conversations are always lively, insightful, and a lot of fun—and I’d love to be part of yours.

Share Your Thoughts

Have a true crime story that’s made an impact on you? I’d love to hear your perspective—just reply to this email or reach out through my website. You never know when one of your crime stories might appear in the next John Santana mystery :)

Thank you for being part of this community of mystery lovers and for your ongoing curiosity about the stories—both real and imagined—that shape our world. Whether you’re reading the latest headlines or diving into a Santana novel, I hope you find both suspense and understanding in every story.

With gratitude and a keen eye on the next mystery,

Christopher