To Nita Pronovost, my talented editor, whose impeccable judgment has kept me from my own folly on more occasions than I care to contemplate. Her meticulousness and patience have been unfailing, her instinct for plot and pacing sublime.
To the indefatigable and resourceful Beverley Slopen, my agent, adviser and manager of my overblown expectations. Her good common sense, humour and friendship have been a continuing source of support.
To Martha, Ben and Sam, who taught me everything I know about childbirth.
To my wonderful sister-in-law Barbara Vance, my cyber-genius who navigates the misty shoals of Facebook and Twitter with aplomb.
To Gay Ludlow and Roland Lougheed, videographers extraordinaire.
To the Jewish Book Council of New York, a wonderful organization that acts as shadkin between reader and writer to such brilliant effect, keeping alive the love of reading.
To Adria Iwasutiak, my publicist, who has promoted my books with such flair, imagination and zeal and, like all true professionals, has made it look so easy.
To Terri Nimmo, who designed the magical book cover. To Kiara Kent for her helpful editorial support.
To the talented Jordan Hall of the Booming Ground program at the University of British Columbia.
To Dr. Minna Rozen of the University of Haifa, Israel, and Dr. Ashley Krisman of Vancouver.
To my many friends and family who encouraged me by their support, love and expertise: Katherine Ashenburg, Pam Barnsley, Sandy Constable, Caitlin Davis, Carla Lewis, Sharon Rowse, Lynne Fay, Wendy Matthews, Gale Myers, Shelley Mason and Jim Prier, Diane Sanderson, Diane Saarinen, Catherine and Terry Warren, Alice Rich and Adrian Palmer, Ruth and Von Peacock, Kübra Uçar, Gayle Raphanel and Guy Immega, Jacqueline Brown, and Doreen and Don Reimer, and, of course, to Beryl Young, my wise friend and invaluable mentor.
And to readers everywhere who urged me to write a sequel.