As an author, I’d like to think that I have a decent grasp of the language, but I struggle to find the words to properly express my gratitude to all of the generous and dedicated individuals who’ve contributed to this book, not to mention how fortunate I am to have them in my life.
My undying appreciation to my team at St. Martin’s Press/Macmillan: Pete Wolverton, my friend and ingenious editor, with whom working these past few years has been the highlight of my professional career; Hannah O’Grady and Lily Cronig, who keep the wheels turning behind the scenes; Carol Edwards, copy editor extraordinaire (and then some); Michelle Cashman and Sarah Bonamino, marketing and PR wizards; Ken Silver, who’s responsible for the beautiful product you hold in your hands; and Young Jin Lim, who perfectly captured my vision.
To my amazing support system at Trident Media Group: Alex Slater, who’s so much more than just my agent (I’d be lost without you, my friend); Nicole Robson, who’s given so selflessly of her time and expertise; Caitlin O’Beirne, queen of graphic design; and Robert Gottlieb, the man behind the curtain.
To my home team: my wife, Danielle (who needs sleep?), and my brood, who make life worth living; my mom, for her unwavering support; my dad, whom I miss every day; Jane Gauthier; and the Bannigans.
Special thanks to: the Bedard family; David Bell; Richard Chizmar; Colorado Humanities & Center for the Book; Liza Fleissig; Mark Greaney; Michael Patrick Hicks; Gus Isuani; Michael Koryta; Jennie Levesque; Jonathan Maberry; Jim Marrs; Tom Monteleone; Andi Rawson; James Rollins; Michael Marshall Smith; Jeff Strand; Team TPMI; The Tattered Cover; Thomas Tessier; Paul Wilson; Kimmy Yerina; and to everyone else who’s contributed to my success on a personal level: You know who you are and how much you mean to me.
My most sincere admiration and respect to all booksellers and librarians, who keep the torch of literacy burning.
And, most important, to all of you, my readers, without whom this book wouldn’t exist.