Unending gratitude to:
Kristin Sevick, my brilliant, hilarious, and gracious editor. Thank you—you championed this from day one. The remarkable team at Forge Books: the incomparable Linda Quinton, indefatigable Alexis Saarela, and copy editor Tom Cherwin who (hilariously) noticed everything, thank you. Another wow of a cover—my story fully realized—from Seth Lerner. Desirae Friesen and Bess Cozby, I am so grateful. Brian Heller, my champion. Bob Werner, I am so grateful! The inspirational Tom Doherty, leader of us all. What a terrifically smart and unfailingly supportive team. I am so thrilled to be part of it. Thank you.
Lisa Gallagher, a wow of an agent, a true goddess and visionary, who changed my life and continues to do so.
Francesca Coltrera, the astonishingly skilled independent editor, who lets me believe all the good ideas are mine. Editor Chris Roerden, whose care and skill and commitment made such a difference. Editor Ramona DeFelice Long—your insights are incomparable. You all are incredibly talented. I am lucky to know you—and even luckier to work with you.
The artistry and savvy of Maddee James, Jen Forbus, Charlie Anctil, Erin Mitchell, Mary Zanor, Kaitlyn Buscone, and Mary-Liz Murray.
The inspiration of John Lescroart, Lisa Unger, Tess Gerritsen, Mary Higgins Clark, and Reed Farrel Coleman. Big special thanks to Jeffery Deaver, who guided me so graciously.
Sue Grafton. And Lisa Scottoline. And Lee Child. Words fail me. (I know, a first.)
My darling posse at Sisters in Crime, and the dear Guppies. Thank you. Mystery Writers of America, you rock. Facebook pals, thanks for the grammar guidance, character names, and enthusiasm.
My amazing blog partners. Long may we write. Love you, Jungle Reds sisters, and you too, dear Femmes Fatales.
To the brave and powerful women who shared their stories, and who, as promised, will remain nameless. You are changing the world. I hope I got it right.
My dear friends Laura DiSilverio, Mary Schwager, Paula Munier, and Katherine Hall Page; and my darling sister, Nancy Landman.
Dad—who loves every moment of this. And Mom. Missing you.
And Jonathan, of course, who never complained about all the carry-out salmon.
Do you see your name in this book? Some very generous souls—hi, Ashley Masse!—allowed their names to be used in return for an auction donation to charity. To retain the magic, I will let the rest of you find yourselves.
Keep in touch okay?