John R. Freeman, born in Chicago in the middle of the twentieth century, must come to grips with a series of personal disasters and bad choices, which force him ever deeper into an abyss of despair. Faced with the imminent destruction of his life, will he finally find redemption, mercy, and peace? Expanding on the scene of the crucifixion as described in the gospel of St. Luke, The Good Thief recreates the life of the penitent thief in an accessible, modern-day setting, providing the reader an empathetic glimpse into the meaning of this enigmatic bible character. Robert Vall was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and began writing full time after a varied career in business, including several years managing his own company. Reflecting on his life so far, Rob sees God's guiding hand in good times and bad. Having experienced the mercy of God in so many palpable ways, Rob feels a strong desire to impart hope to others who are unaware, or unsure of, God's great love for them.