When I wrote A Sinner in Paradise, I did not know that a sequel would follow. It wasn’t until many of my readers demanded one that I decided to tell the story of what happened to Geneva’s crazy cousins and her bevy of disappointed suitors.
Of course, it had to be about Sally Beth—everyone insisted on that—but in order for her to grow beyond the guileless country girl who readers found so endearing in Sinner, I had to get her out of Tucker, West Virginia and onto the larger stage of 1978 world affairs. The events that test Sally Beth and her simple faith are so extraordinary you may find them difficult to believe, but they are, in fact, true. I invite you to read the notes at the end of the book for more information about the trials Sally Beth faced in her journey from artless innocent to mature woman.
I have to thank a number of people who have been a godsend to me during this process of birthing another book. Thanks to all of you who read A Sinner in Paradise, made such kind comments, and insisted on a sequel, and especially to Jean Lesesne, Delores Crotts, and Phil Hollingsworth. Your frequent friendly reminders that you were still waiting were a great incentive to keep going. My sisters of LOL3, your constant encouragement and inspiration have been more treasured than you realize. Laura Brown, thank you for doing the tedious task of finding and correcting my many mistakes. Many thanks to my musician friend Jim McConnell for the beautiful music he wrote for both A Sinner in Paradise and this sequel, my pilot friend Mike Bensen for educating me about flying small amphibious planes, and to Dr. Eldred Wiser for serving as my medical consultant.
I am very thankful to my husband, Michael, who endured my moanings and groanings, read very bad early drafts, always offered encouragement and sound advice, and for that marvelous road trip when you cheerfully drove hundreds of miles with me across the American Southwest so I could envision that rollicking road trip for Lilly and Sally Beth.
A big, squeezy hug to my publisher and friend, Lady Betty Turnbull, for your constant enthusiasm and for the opportunity to claim friendship with a real Baroness. And finally, to my editor, Elizabeth Turnbull, who made everything possible, then made it better, thank you.