Acknowledgments

David, Corinne, and Kathryn—Thanks for helping me not forget to live life while writing about life. Thanks, too, for all the technical support that runs the gamut from the computer to the washing machine.

Sue Carter Stout—Your hospitality enabled me to share my vision of Beneath a Navajo Moon with Abingdon. I’m here in large part because of your friendship. You are a blessing to me.

My mother, Carolyn Fulghum, for always being my first reader.

Sonny Boyer—retired from the Norfolk Police Department, bond-servant of Jesus—thanks for reading through the manuscript. He wonders how such a proper Southern lady could write such scenes of mayhem. Don’t we all wonder?

Hope Dougherty—You have been such a blessing as a friend and critique partner on this stretch of my faith journey.

Patricia Cargill Carter—For recounting to me the vivid story of the long-ago battle on the grassy hillside outside your home on top of the mesa. Where once Anglo settlers, the American army, and Indian warriors fought for supremacy over the land.

Tamela Hancock Murray—You are the best agent in the world. I’m blessed to be represented by you.

Ramona Richards—Editor extraordinaire. This is the story that first drew us together based upon our mutual interests. Thank you for the vision to dream dreams with me.

Teri—For your insightful edits in making this book better.

Cat Hoort, Mark Yeh, Susan Cornell, and the Abingdon marketing, sales, and production teams—Thanks so much for your behind-the-scenes work in making this book the best it can be.

The Anderson Design Group—I can’t express how much I love this cover—all the evocative covers you’ve designed for my books. You are incredible. I’m awestruck at your creativity.

My Precepts class—For the year we spent studying and finding out what it really means to live out Hebrews. Thank you for sharing your lives and hearts with me.

Readers—It is my prayer that as you follow the Lord’s leading in every area of life, you will walk in beauty because of God’s best gift to us, His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus—I come, as must all, humble and broken to the foot of the cross, in gratitude that because of Your sacrifice, I may boldly approach Abba Father’s throne. Thank you for the mercy and unmerited grace throughout all the dark hours of my need.