This book has had quite a journey from conception to publication, much like the ancestors who inspired it.
First, I must give thanks to God for His divine inspiration—for taking the whispers of my ancestors and turning them into a story that will hopefully entertain and encourage others.
Second, I have to thank my agent, Natasha Kern, who, when she discovered I had this completed manuscript hidden away, said something to the effect, “That will never make you money sitting on your computer!” Thank you for making me take it out, dust it off, and eventually get Nolan and Hannah’s story out for the world to enjoy.
I’d also like to thank Sue Brower, who first bought the book for Gilead Publishing. Thank you for believing in this story, despite it being a somewhat unconventional romance. I’m sorry things didn’t work out with Gilead, but it was wonderful to know you loved the story and that it had merit. I also wish to thank Amy Drown, a freelance editor, who made me rewrite the beginning six chapters of my book and challenged me to make the story so much stronger.
Thank you to my amazing critique partners, Sally Bayless and Julie Jarnagin, for your wonderful insights and suggestions. I wouldn’t be the writer I am without your input. And my sincere thanks to my former critique partner, CJ Chase. An expert in all things pertaining to English nobility, she was the first to point out some serious errors I’d made concerning inheritance laws and the aristocracy and offered great suggestions to make the story work!
A big thank you to David Long, my editor at Bethany House, who eventually bought this book and saved it from going back to the slush pile! Thanks for taking a chance on something a little different from my normal stories and giving it a good home. And thanks to Jen Veilleux, whose keen eye during the editing process really made the story shine.
Thank you to my family, to my husband, Bud, and my children, Leanne and Eric, who support me through all the ups and downs of this crazy business.
Last, thank you to my wonderful readers, who are so encouraging with their support and praise. We write for an audience, without whom there would be no stories, no characters, no spiritual journeys, or happily-ever-afters. Thank you for spending your precious time with my characters. I appreciate you all so much!