The author extends earnest thanks to the following people who contributed expertise and support during the writing of this book, and takes responsibility for any mistaken interpretation of the answers and guidelines so generously provided:
to my son, Kevin Williams, for introducing me to exotic fish and raising questions about those in this book, and to Donna Hatch, part owner of University Aquarium and Pet Shop, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for willingly providing answers to those questions;
to Kym Williams, B.S.B.A. and D.A.U.G.H.T.E.R., for marketing consultations, astute suggestions for the manuscript, and the B&B vacation amidst an astounding collection of antique dishes;
to my grandson, Dylan Ray Brown, for teaching me to look at things with eyes of wonder;
to John Lee and the National Woodie Club for their enthusiasm and their willingness to accept Jeff Talbot as the first fictional member of their organization;
to Vicky Loyd, co-director of the Northfield Township Library, Whitmore Lake, Michigan, again, for tracking down reference books and sources of elusive quotes; and to Ron Loyd (the other half of the Loyd co-directorship), for going above and beyond the call of duty when I most needed it;
to writers Noreen Ayres and Robbie Robbins for generously opening their Seattle home and for introducing me to some of their favorite Washington sights;
to Laurie Wagner Buyer, one of the finest poets of her generation, for her friendship, generosity, and inspiration;
to writer Randall Platt for answering all questions asked, no matter how insignificant they might have seemed, and to Randi’s “good buddy and fishing freak,” Greg Stacy, for providing much valuable information on Washington fishing. Although Jeff Talbot found a different fishing hole from the one sanctioned by Greg, I’m nonetheless indebted to him for the suggestions and the literature;
to Ted Zgrzemski, woodie owner and restorer, and fellow Michiganian, for lending his knowledge and expertise so that I might better portray Jeff’s ‘48 Chevy;
and to my husband, Loren D. Estleman, for keeping me grounded and for teaching me how to soar.