A big thanks goes to Melanie, VaLynn, Teresa, Laurie, and Josh for their helpful reviews of my manuscript. This book is better because of your suggestions. Thank you, Bradley, for your insight about Nazi-era German words. Thank you, Grandpa George, for sharing stories about growing up on a farm during the Great Depression.
I would also like to thank the many teachers who have taught me and encouraged me to love reading, writing, and learning new things. If you remember me as a student, I guarantee I remember you as a teacher. Special mention should go to Mr. Frederick for bringing Fortitude South to my attention for the first time.
I will always be grateful to the team at Covenant for taking a gamble on my work. Thank you to all the staff for their professionalism and amazing talent. Thank you, Sam, for your wonderful edit and your unfailing patience.
A special thanks goes to my husband. Thank you for pointing out plot holes, asking hard questions, and helping me hear and visualize scenes. Thank you for letting me pursue my dream. Love you!
And to those of you reading this book, thank you for picking it up. I hope you enjoy it.