Becoming the most revered hitman in the world wasn't an easy task. What's even more difficult? Quitting. When Mark, aka the Pale Horse, decides it's time to get out of the business, he joins an Alcoholics Anonymous type 12-step program for killers. As he's cleaning up after a meeting, he is attacked by a Russian with an agenda. Mark manages to get out of the church basement without killing the Russian or being killed, but he's so badly injured he has to seek out covert medical attention from Astrid, who provides emergency room type treatment in her apartment with no questions asked. When Mark goes back to his place to get payment for services rendered, he discovers that not only has his apartment been firebombed, but whoever did it is also now aware of Astrid. So Mark sets off on a journey to find out who is after him, while keeping Astrid and his cat safe and to do it all without killing anybody. And that might prove to be the hardest part of all. This offbeat little gem has it all. There's action, humor, personal reflection, a little romance and even a couple surprises. A unique, engaging read.