I owe a debt of gratitude to Bill and Sandra McGee’s wonderful book The Divorce Seekers, which was an invaluable resource for information about the Nevada divorce ranches. Bill was the head dude wrangler at The Flying W, and his book is a treasure if only for the photos alone—images of cowboys, the ranch, old Reno, and mule-sipping socialites in the midst of their six-week cure. Steve Yurich, a regional forester and my father-in-law, also served as inspiration for the bureau men in the book. While he wasn’t here to advise, I hope he would have appreciated their portrayal.
Much thanks and appreciation, too, to my long-time agent and friend, Ben Camardi, and to my editor, Shauna Summers—editor, ally, and lovely human being. Thank you, as well, to the fabulous Random House team, especially Jennifer Hershey, Marietta Anastassatos, Nancy Delia, Virginia Norey, Kristin Fassler, Maggie Oberrender, Michelle Jasmine, and Sarah Murphy.
Love and gratitude, as ever, to my family—my parents, and the larger clan. Special love, love, and love to my sweeties—my daughter, Sam Bannon; my son, Nick Bannon; and my husband, John Yurich. Thanks for bringing the joy, guys.