ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As always, I thank my family for their outstanding support of my work. That includes my in-laws, as well. I lucked out on all sides. I’ve lived many places and have met a lot of people; thank you to my friends wherever you are. A special thanks to the Soul Team in Boston and my pals in Phoenix for always giving me the kindest welcome and the loveliest support. My biggest regret is that we don’t have more time to spend face-to-face.

Again, I owe a big thanks to Sergeant Jon Howard and Sergeant Vince Lewis of the Phoenix Police Department. Their input has been a huge help, and they’ve been generous with their time. I extend my gratitude, as well, to Chelsea Janicek, a crime scene specialist at the Phoenix PD for all the details about CSI technique and practice, including the blood and guts. I, alone, am responsible for any mistakes or detours from official police procedures and CSI processes. Thanks to Kim Krigsten and Adam Alperin for helping me find Chelsea.

I’d like to acknowledge the people at Seventh Street Books/Start who have helped bring this book to life, particularly my fantastic editor Dan Mayer. And finally, last but certainly not least, a major thanks to my agent, Ann Collette, for being a great mentor, coach, critic, and friend.