Acknowledgements

I remember my little sister’s face blinking back at me as I realized I had a story to tell. And from those earliest moments, Erynn, you’ve encouraged me, learned at my side, gotten me to laugh at my n00b mistakes. I don’t think I’d have ever had the courage to write if it hadn’t been for you. Thanks for the nudge and the company.

And Sue Quinn, who read and critiqued those two early years-ago versions chapter by chapter, you sharpened me, challenged me to take what I’d written for myself and to make it about my readers. Your belief that I could do this meant so much—still does.

Susie May Warren, Karen Ball, Rachel Noto, and Sandra Lovelace, each of you has said something to me that lifted my chin and spurred me on in this endurance run. I treasure those words, and I keep on.

Jeff Bourque, honestly? This book wouldn’t have become what it is without “Nothing.” Weaving those lyrics into the story moved my writing in a direction I couldn’t have predicted. It was God’s gift to me. I wish everyone in the world knew your song, and I’m thankful that we met you on the Polish mission field so long ago.

But God had a different song to break Kasia’s silence. Sarah Sharrow, time spent worshiping and seeking God’s heartsong for her story, time spent praying and writing new lyrics with you—I wouldn’t trade those moments for a New York Times bestseller. They were sweet, and they knitted our souls together. You were one of my first fans, and you’ll always be one of my favorites.

Light Brigade, soul-sisters, you have prayed me through every high and every low of this ride. Ronie, your friendship is a mocha latte for my afternoon slump. Marney, you know what’s up. You pull no punches, you push me to excel. Judi, my kindred spirit, bosom-friend. I want to write books and characters you’ll like having around as much as me (and bonus: they’ll be able to be around on demand). I miss you every single day.

Mom and Dad, you loved us with grace, Truth, and fierce determination. I love you cowmootillion.

Boyfriend-Husband, some of my berry favorite things about you made it into this story, because I wrote what I knew. Your patience and grace, your ability to make me laugh no matter what’s going on around me. You befriended me at a time when I didn’t believe in love, and you showed me what it looked like. But you never claimed to be my hero. You just pointed me to Him. And that’s what I love the MOST about you. Keep it up until we die, love.

To the Kacz clan, those dinner-table conversations and couch-snuggles and loud laughter and heartspills—they’re more precious to me than jewels. I love watching you each discover your own stories. Giant, you are the Man. Bean, aš myliu tave. Short Son, I’d love you if you wore a ten-gallon hat. Smalls, you’re magical with love. And Pound o’ Puddin’, I love your little heart. You all rawk.

Julie Gwinn, agent-friend, you are The. Best. Thank you for championing me and pushing me to write and write and write. Even if I don’t have pink hair, you still tell me I’m cool. And even when I stole your pillow, you didn’t leave me behind. I shall keep you. Here’s to many more books to bless us both.

And to my readers, you are the reason I tell stories. May you find the powerful, unshakeable Love that calls your heart. He’s waiting for you.