Acknowledgements

It’s true that being an author is a lonesome ride, but this doesn’t mean that authors are all by themselves. On the contrary, a writer is usually surrounded with people who are very dear to him and who also help him, inspire him and support him. At least that is my experience and I would like to grab the chance to thank from the bottom of my heart:

My publisher in the UK, Mr Paul Andrews, for his trust and the perfect collaboration, as well as all the wonderful people at Oak Tree Press.

My editor, Mr Andrew Crofts, for his guidance, all the way through.

Mrs Stephanie Karamanolis, Mr Costas Kois and Mrs Eugenia Kollia, for correcting my texts.

My dear friend and writer, Pantelis Giannoulakis, for his efforts.

Mr Ilias Livanis and Mr Vasilis Vasilikos for their continuous support for so many years.

Mr Robin Waterfield and Mr Charles Ostroumoff for their valuable assistance.

Professor Leonidas Charitides for broadening my horizons.

My family and especially my father, to whom this book is dedicated. Without his valuable advices and guidance, as well as his tireless encouragement, this story would never have been created.

The Damonza Artistic Team for their beautiful and original creations.

Mr Mukul Khattar and his team at InkNuts for their great work.

All my close friends, the Cardinals of the Brotherhood of the Cyanize Pope, for their friendship and lovely company.

Of course, words can never be enough to thank my publicist and consultant, Mr Tony Mulliken, as well as Ms Fiona Marsh and the whole team at Midas.

Last but not least, I want to thank YOU, dear friend, for reading my book, which was written especially for you. I hope that you have enjoyed reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

Mario Routi

London, December 2013