This novel began with a simple premise: write a story about the president’s family. In many ways, this book is an homage to my father, whose book, The First Patient, which had received (along with stellar sales) glowing praise from President Bill Clinton. It became apparent quite early in the writing process that I sorely lacked knowledge in numerous areas of expertise. To that end, I’d like to thank my uncle and trusted medical advisor, Dr. David Grass, without whom my character’s medical deeds, as well as the trials of running a family practice, could not have been told with any degree of verisimilitude. David was also my sounding board for plot and story arc, and it’s safe to say he played a vital role in making sure the novel never flatlined.
My brother and fellow thriller scribe, Matthew Palmer, also graciously shared with me his insider knowledge of the White House and various facets of how the government machine operates. I owe additional thanks to another writer friend, Lisa Gardner, who opened my eyes to how I could open the book. My brilliantly talented and dedicated mother read every page of the manuscript and offered her candid feedback, which I appreciate to no end. In that same regard, my thanks also go to super agents Meg Ruley and Rebecca Scherer, as well as to Clair Lamb, who helped improve the novel immeasurably with their careful reading and thoughtful critique. Special gratitude goes to Jennifer Enderlin, my father’s devoted editor, who has taken me under her wing and allowed me the opportunity to carry on my dad’s legacy while sharing with me her incredible gifts for story and character.
My deep appreciation also extends to Ben Beauchemin of Wicked Weaponry, and U.S. Secret Service, Office of Government & Public Affairs, who assisted with tactical details portrayed in the book; and to Dr. Ethan Prince, who provided invaluable medical consultations. My thanks, too, to the generous individuals who purchased character names in support of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and the Greater Nashua Food Bank: Karen Ray, Valerie Cowart, Woody Lapham, and Dr. Marilyn Piekarski. A special note of appreciation I extend to the sales and marketing team at St. Martins for doing all they do to put these books into the hands of eager readers.
It goes without saying that my father, Michael Palmer, is a huge presence in every word I write and that we all miss and love him. I’m grateful for the opportunity to carry on his legacy, and I hope this novel does him proud.
Last, but hardly least, my deepest thanks goes to my wife, Jessie, and my two children, Benjamin and Sophie, for your love and support, and the joy and meaning you bring to every day.