When I began researching and writing this book, my plan was to write a fun middle-grade mystery tale using Seven Mile Island as the primary plot setting. I also wanted to capture the excitement of the books that I read as a boy by Ian Fleming and Robert Arthur, Jr. They were masters of writing clever stories with realistic twists and turns that always kept my attention. Most important, the plots were never too far-fetched or outrageous. Their works inspired me to visit many places, try new activities, and write this book. While creating the story and artwork took longer than planned, I’m truly pleased to have completed this lifelong dream project.
I’m so grateful for the wonderful times I’ve spent on Seven Mile Island. From its welcoming sunrises to calming sunsets, this special paradise of sandy beaches, protective dunes, abundant wildlife, and clear coastal waters is beyond compare. It has brought great joy and inspiration to my entire family for almost forty years.
Special thanks to my parents, Dan and Pam Thompson, who not only shared their appreciation of art and books, but also for their unending encouragement and love. As longtime islanders, their fondness and respect for the island’s delicate environment have been inspiring, especially their efforts to protect the nesting diamondback terrapin turtles.
I also want to acknowledge Michael Witt, John Grant, Charles Covington, John Langston, Judy Thompson, Kathy Krantz, Chris Hoare, the Montanari family, The Wetlands Institute, and Laura Reichert and Bonita Risley at the Avalon History Center for their remarkable, and greatly appreciated, assistance, generosity, guidance, inspiration and/or research efforts.
Many thanks to Amy Snyder for her editing expertise, constructive and insightful comments, feedback, questions, research, assistance, and support. Further, I’m sincerely grateful to the awesome team at The Paper House. The amazing efforts of Mike, Tiffany, Mo and Tara were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
I especially want to express my love and gratitude to my son, RT, for his youthful and honest feedback. His optimistic viewpoint helped me stay focused, and his commitment to our country truly inspired me to finish this book.
Finally, I wish to thank my wonderful wife, Kristin, for her love, friendship, patience, understanding, and unconditional enthusiasm, which helped bring this story to life. She truly means the world to me.
