I owe a huge amount of gratitude to my editor on this series, Kim Childress. Not just for taking interest in the project and working hard to see it come to print, but for falling in love with Sam and Makayla and the rest of the characters. Your excitement about this series feeds my excitement, and you have been awesome to work alongside. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to share Sam and the gang with the rest of the world.
My thanks to the whole team at Zonderkidz for helping the Samantha Sanderson series see the light of day. I truly appreciate each of you for extending your talent and skill on my behalf. It’s been a fun journey.
Special thanks to Robinson Middle School, who let me share how special they are with the rest of the world. I played around with possibilities and lay of the land as I saw fit. Any mistakes in the representation of details are mine, where I twisted them in the best interest of my story.
My most sincere thanks to my awesome agent, Steve Laube (HP), who not only is an amazing agent but also makes me laugh when I get too serious. THANK YOU.
My extended family members are my biggest fans and greatest cheerleaders. Thank you for ALWAYS being in my corner: Mom, BB and Robert, Bek and Krys, Bubba and Lisa, Brandon, Rachel, and Aunt Millicent. Especially my Papa, whom I love and miss every day.
I couldn’t do what I do without my girls — Emily Carol, Remington Case, and Isabella Co-Ceaux. I love each of you so much! Thank y’all so much for your support and encouragement when I needed to write. And my precious grandsons, Benton and Zayden. You are joys in my life.
I’m blessed to have such an amazing husband, who not only puts up with my craziness but also is a great brainstorm partner and research assistant. You amaze me with your insight and your love and support. I love you with everything I have.
Finally, all glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.