Covenant Hall does not exist, at least not where I placed it in this novel. In a way, it represents many old houses, scattered across the Lowcountry, where secessionist plans were hatched. Jacksonboro, Walterboro, and Edisto Island are real places with which I’ve taken some liberties for the purposes of the story. I hope the fine folks who live there won’t be too put out with me.
No book is created in a vacuum, and this one is no exception. My thanks to my friends and sister writers Jo Williams and Vicky Hunnings, who continue to offer encouragement and support. I appreciate the efforts of all the good people at St. Martin’s Minotaur, especially my editor, Jen Crawford, and publicist, Jessica Rotondi. Amy Rennert is both an agent and a friend, and her guidance over the years has been invaluable.
I also wish to acknowledge the readers who have taken the time to share with me their thoughts and comments on the books, as well as the many enthusiastic bookstore people and librarians who have recommended the series to their customers and patrons.
And special thanks to Elise Simon and Dr. Elizabeth Shelly for their generous donations to our island charities. I hope they’re happy with the places I found for Brooke Garrett and Miss Lizzie.