The idea for this novel sparked when I visited my cousin Michael Bumstead and his wife, Diane, at their beautiful home on one of the San Juan Islands in Washington. They took us crabbing, digging for clams, and sight-seeing at nearly every bay on the island. I’ll never forget our time with them or their gracious hospitality. I knew I had to set a novel there. Thank you, Mike and Diane!
I must thank my sister, Jo Lynn Fife. For this novel, I wanted to know how it felt to shoot a handgun so I’d have a better understanding of my characters. Jo tutored me several times at target practice. Her knowledge of weapons helped ease my worries and gave me the confidence I needed. Thanks, sis. We need to go to the shooting range again.
I also need to thank my writers’ group. They are dedicated authors who help keep me on task. I especially must thank those who read the entire novel: Brenda Bensch, Kathleen Dougherty, Kerri Leroy, Maureen Mills, Charlene Raddon, and Nikki Trionfo. If there are any errors in this book, it’s entirely my fault and not theirs. They are the best.
I couldn’t write the stories I do year after year without an outstanding publisher and editor. I’m very lucky to have Samantha Millburn guide my writing. I don’t know what I’d do without her expert editing skills, her savvy knowledge of the publishing business, and her endearing friendship. I greatly appreciate Covenant Communications, Inc. They are dedicated people who work very hard to produce the best novels possible.
As always, I thank my family and especially my husband. They support me in everything I do, and I don’t know what I’d do without them.
Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank you, dear reader! I hope I can continue writing novels you enjoy.