THIS NOVEL COULD not exist if not for the encouragement and support of so many wonderful people, so a round of thanks is in order.
First, to Darby Karchut, for encouraging me to dive headfirst into a world that was much bigger than I ever imagined, and for giving me the confidence to keep writing Petra’s story, despite all my fears and doubts. You are the reason I dared to write this book in the first place. Petra owes her life to you, though she may not realize it. Thank you.
A massive thank you to everyone who supported me and my writing in one way or another. To those of you who bought and read the book. To my original beta readers: Marcus, Kristina, Shandi, Marieke, Anassa, and Jay. To my friends, family, and teachers who believed in me and didn’t let me give up. To the people I have met along the way. To the readers and fans who have become my closest friends because of the words I wrote. To Gabriel, Daniel, Rachel, Anthony, and Eric. Your enthusiasm knows no bounds.
To my editor Kelly, and the rest of the team at Harper Voyager, for taking a chance.
To Jaime, for always being there for me when I needed you.
And finally, to my husband, who knew I was a writer and married me anyway.