This book would not have been written without the keen insights and thoughtfulness of my first readers: Kim Yan, Lisa Jones, Donna Gershten, and Helen Thorpe. Your generosity and love have sustained the work, and given this novel wings. Thank you.
Sascha Steinway lent his expertise, as did Adam Duerk, Win Duerk, Bobby Reedy, Mike Reedy, Jim Le Fevre, Isaac Savitz, Tiara Sharma, Justin Ward, and Geordie Heller. Thanks to doctors Melissa Gillespie and Mitchell Gershten for always being on call.
A special thanks goes to the brilliant Myriam Anderson, whose graciousness and wisdom have meant so much, and to the transcendent translator Céline Leroy.
David Halpern was with me on this novel from the first pages to the last. He has been the most steadfast and insightful friend and mentor. Jenny Jackson shepherded the novel through with brilliance and great care. She has been an inspiration and a champion, always. To you both: I am grateful for your minds, your humor, and your hearts.
It is an honor and a privilege to know you all.