I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the Johnstown, Pennsylvania flood of 1889. The accounts, the places, and the people have come to feel like family to me. I shed many tears over their suffering while researching and writing this story. It is my deepest wish that I’ve not only written a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page but that I’ve honored the victims, survivors, and descendants of the flood.
Huge thanks to Ranger Elizabeth Shope for being such a wonderful tour guide at the former South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club clubhouse and cottage row tours through the National Park Service. Thanks for bringing history to life for geeks like me!
To David G. McCullough for making it your life’s passion to compile the accounts of that fateful day in your wonderfully written book. Your book was vital to the life of mine, and I’m grateful.
This book would not exist without my agent, Linda S. Glaz of the Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency. I’m blessed to take this journey with you.
None of my books would be complete without the “sisters of my heart”—the Quid Pro Quills. Thank you for critiquing my manuscripts and offering your friendships. Pegg Thomas, Robin Patchen, Jericha Kingston, Kara Hunt, and Susan Crawford—I couldn’t survive my fictional worlds without you.
For Becky Germany, my editor, Ellen Tarver, and the rest of the Barbour team for the beautiful cover and fantastic editing skills. I love being a part of the Barbour family.
To my husband, Adam, for walking beside me every step of the way. Your patience during deadlines, your comic relief, and your willingness to help me succeed are priceless. Thank you for loving me no matter what.
To Levi, Silas, and Hudson—no matter how many books I write or what else I do in life, you are my greatest accomplishments. Thanks for supporting my dreams all these years. Now go chase yours!
Above all, I thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. All honor and glory are His.
Thank you, dear reader, for taking the time out of your busy lives to spend it with my characters. Until next time …