ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

DURING THE TWO YEARS (or more) that this book was being written, I benefited from the sage advice of many individuals. I must express my warmest gratitude to my two literary agents, Hilary McMahon in Toronto and Peter Riva in Gila, New Mexico, who have consistently looked after my best interests. Peter, in particular, took a keen interest in the project, edited an early draft of the novel, and has shown unwavering faith in my work. For that, I am most appreciative.

For the earlier Canadian edition, I thank the great team at Heartland Associates. And for this U.S. edition, I express my gratitude to everyone at Yucca Publishing.

My wife, Angie, our children, Alexander and Mia (and, yes, our devoted beagle, Maggie, my writing companion) have been supportive and encouraging, always reminding me what is truly important in life. To Angie, for being my sounding board-day and night-and for sticking by me for the past 32 years, generally with a smile, I dedicate this book to you with love.

AL

Winnipeg, Canada

December, 2013