To Katheryne, My Love
You are my number one fan, and my sage. You taught me it is not weak to embrace empathy, tolerance and—above all—love. You support my many expensive habits like comics, motorcycles, and tattoos, and put up with my passionate personality. Without you I would not be successful.
To My Parents
You went into debt sending me to college where I discovered my passion of creative writing. Without that investment we wouldn’t have this book. Now, you have something tangible—besides a piece of pottery I made in a clay class that still sits in your curio—to show for your educational investment in your son. You make me feel loved.
To Linda
The Wards of Iasos would not be what it is without your expertise. Your honest criticism and eye for detail is forever appreciated. Thank you for being my longtime friend despite the fact that I am infuriating and insufferable.
To Dr. Nugent
Thank you Dr. Pauline Nugent, Professor of Modern and Classical Languages at Missouri State University for consulting with me on the pronunciations of many of these words.
To Evan
Thank you for being my friend, barbeque buddy, and D&D ally. Your honest feedback made a difference in this story.
And Nick
Thank you for being the eyes, ears and heart of teenagedom. Someday, my former student and friend, I will return the favor and edit your novel. I can’t wait to read it. I know it will be amazing.