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I’m still in awe at the fact that I have a book out in the wild. When I began this journey, I never anticipated finding such a welcoming community of authors and readers who wanted to read the stories that have been running amuck inside my head. I am deeply humbled by all the love and support from my readers, friends, and family.
First, to my husband, Zach, who has supported all my whims. You are the most patient and supportive man I have ever met, and I could not have done this without you. From entertaining the kids so I could write uninterrupted, to waiting up for me on late editing nights, and letting me vent when the imposter syndrome kicked in. Thank you, honey, for helping to make a lifelong goal of mine possible.
To my kids. Thank you for bringing me out of my daydreams, for reminding me to enjoy playtime and sunshine. I love you both more than the Northern Lights of Asterion!
To my mom. You have shown me what a strong, female character should look like. You have taught me to grow from the trials in life, and how to persevere. Thank you, for encouraging me to fuel my imagination and for telling me anything is possible.
To my best friend, Catherine... The Brina to my Shaye, who was the first to talk about my story with me like we were in book club! Thank you for inspiring me to write about fierce friendships. (and for letting me use your dad as inspiration for Rolland and his cooking!)
To my family: my dad, stepmom, and grandparents. Thank you for supporting me through all the twists and turns, for never skipping a beat in supporting me when I announced I would be writing my first book.
To my mapmaker, Melissa Nash. Thank you for bringing the world of Asterion, Sagon, and Skag to life. You took my messy sketch and turned it into something tangible. Without you, my readers would still be trying to figure out where Shaye and Sorin were going.
To my betas: Ardena, Catherine, Diana, Lisa, and Stephanie. You were the first people to entrust my characters and world to. Thank you for being the first steppingstone in this process, and for making me smile at your reaction notes as you read!
To my editor, Phoebe Zimmer. Thank you for helping me to see the bigger picture... and all the commas I missed.
To my final editor, Aunt Suzie and her bundle of red pens. Thank you for the corrections, and for the late-night pep talks.
To all of the writers who have come before me. Thank you for shaping my world with your stories and inspiring me to create worlds of my own.
To my readers and fans. Thank you for your support and encouragement through your sweet messages, posts, and reviews. I am immensely thankful for each, and every one of you. It is because of you, that I have the drive to continue sharing these stories with the world. Truly, thank you.
Lastly, to our Father in Heaven, who has blessed me with an imagination filled with endless possibilities, thank you.