In yet another version of multi-medias merging and distribution taking on a new face, Borders Books is now offering up their first proprietary title, available only in Borders and Waldenbooks stores. This is a thriller based on the exploits of a hardworking and honest family breadwinner who finds himself at a crossroads, forced to make potentially unethical choices in his career. What begins as simple tweakings and twistings and circumventing of the laws turns into some downward spiraling catastrophes.

Ultimately, reality morphs with fantasy, and everything turns grey in terms of right and wrong.

Santora is a writer/co-executive of television's Prison Break and has also written for a number of other shows including The Sopranos, Law & Order, and The Guardian. Here, the author comments on this new collaboration between Borders and himself: "I'm so proud and excited that Borders is publishing my first novel. I've used my experience writing for TV to craft a suspenseful story that reaches many readers. The importance of my own family is reflected in the main character of the book and the vital role his family plays in the storyline."

This is not dissimilar in what Starbucks has done in releasing proprietary CD titles, including Paul McCartney's latest. Marketing is all about distribution, and when you have the clout and number of operations that Borders represents, you become a major player.

This is not the most meaningful mystery ever penned, but it does draw you in. Certainly, if/when this author/bookstore relationship evolves and becomes more directed, the quality of the books offered will increase. In the meantime, you can now go to Borders and find a book written specifically for Borders by an author hired by Borders to write a book for them.