Thank you to my earliest readers, Diana Campe, Marsha Auth, Annette Boliver, and Donna Leskovac. Your feedback was invaluable!

To my husband, John, for encouraging me through all the late nights, for never once complaining about pizza delivery and take-out meals, and for your unfailing support during my writing of this novel, my forever thanks. You walk with saints!

I also thank my wonderful editor, S.M. Ray, for her exceptional eye for detail, her insistence on “getting it right,” and for being there for me with an open ear, a sturdy shoulder when needed, and limitless patience. You are a gem!