It would be impossible to list everyone who had a hand in the genesis of this novel, but I’ll do my best with the space I have. If you’re not listed here, I assure you the omission isn’t intentional!
My mother always encouraged a love of books and writing, and bought me my first copy of the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons books before I even turned 10. And my late grandfather always told me that hard work and determination would pay off. Thank you, Mom and Pop.
More than 20 years in journalism and communications has left me with a ton of people to thank for making me the writer I am today. If you ever edited anything I wrote, know that I was listening—even when it seemed I wasn’t—and that you helped me get to the point where I could write this book.
My fantastic agent, Sara Megibow, believed in this book before it was even any good, and taught me so much about the art and business of writing. She is an outstanding agent and a better human being. Never has there been a more determined advocate, and I firmly believe you would not be reading this without her efforts.
I must also thank my old friend Andrew Montgomery, a fantastic writer in his own right, for his ideas and critiques of this book over the past decade. Likewise, Jason M. Hough has been very generous with his time and thoughts on this project, even while working on his own novels. And John LeMaire not only lent his name to a pirate, but used his art to plant amazing visuals in my head so many years ago.
Jeremy Lassen of Night Shade Books continues to take chances on debut writers, and for that I am most grateful. I learned so much from my editor, Ross E. Lockhart, about what works and doesn’t work in fiction writing, and his patience and encouragement were amazing. Thank you to both of you, and to everyone at NSB.
Then there are the two people who make everything in my life worthwhile. My amazing daughter Anna is the soul of kindness, encouragement and love. I hope this book shows her the power of following your dreams and working hard, just like my grandfather’s example showed me. You can do it, kid, whatever “it” is.
My wife, Kate, has truly helped make me the person I am to today. Without her patience, support, faith and love, I wouldn’t be anywhere near the man I want to be, and this book just wouldn’t be here. I love you, Kate.
Finally, to whomever is reading this book, thanks for giving it a shot. I hope you like it!
Michael J. Martinez