The killer is dying - James Sallis

A hired killer on his final job, a burned out detective whose wife is dying slowly, a young boy abandoned by his parents and living alone by his wits. Three people, solitary and disconnected from society. The detective is looking for the killer, Christian, though he doesn't know that. Christian is trying to find the man who stepped in and took down his target. And the boy, Jimmie, is having the killer's dreams. While they never meet, they are inextricably linked - and as their stories unfold, all find the solace of community.