It would not have been possible to find the time, means, or motivation to write without the love and support of family, friends, and loved ones. Whether they were in my life permanently, sporadically, or for but a season, they touched me and now live on in the work that they helped to nurture.

There have also been many whose insights and direct contributions have improved the original into what it is now. To all of you, I say thank you, and specifically to Nico Hald for her attention to detail, and to my agent, Anne Hawkins, and editor, Sarah Knight, for their love of words and belief in my work.

about the author.

Having spent a considerable part of her life journeying the globe, Taylor Stevens has finally settled in Dallas, Texas, which she, her two daughters, and their Maltese puppy now call home.