Acknowledgements

Back in August of 2011, I started my first draft of The Bourbon Street Ripper, then called Untitled Mystery. It was a completely different story, with less mysticism and more grit, and Sam was the killer.

Yup, Sam was originally the killer.

But as the story grew, and as I worked with a critique group, it evolved. Soon, what was one book became two, and what was two became three. Without even realizing it, I was writing a trilogy.

Sins of the Father had been born.

This trilogy has done what is called genre-bending, starting as a mystery and turning into a supernatural thriller, and ending in what is almost urban fantasy. I loved doing it, but it’s been stressful, and I don’t plan on doing it again.

Now for the part where I acknowledge those who have contributed to this book. Only I’m not going to do it the normal way—that’s boring. Instead, I’m going to thank each of them directly, right here, right now:

Jason, thanks for running GGP. You’ve given us all something to dream.

Hilary, thanks for being so patient with me. You’ve made me a better writer.

George, thanks for being a great sounding board. I feel I can bounce any idea off of you.

Shannon, thanks for being so insightful. You really seem to understand my characters.

Erik, thanks for being so engaging. I always feel like you offer something unique.

Dominick, thanks for being so supportive. You go out of your way to make me feel great.

Kristina, thanks for being so awesome. Talking late at night has gotten me through three books.

Gini, thanks for mentoring me. You’ve shown me just how far I can go.

June, thanks for all the kind words. Meeting you showed me just how much I’m loved.

To every aunt, uncle, and cousin in my big Nawlins family, thanks for supporting me. Really, I couldn’t do it without such an awesome family.

Mom and Dad, thanks for believing in me. You guys made it possible.

Sarah and Ryan, thanks for supporting me. You both give me something to strive for.

Janna, thanks for loving me. Without you, my words would lack soul.

And thanks to every friend or fan not mentioned on this page. I’ll get you next time!

Lastly… see ya in Valhalla, Jake. Save me a flagon of mead!

—Leo King