I am so grateful for all my fans who always seem to uplift and encourage at just the write time. Along with my fans, listed below are the specific individuals who helped make MAIDEN possible. I felt it appropriate to share ahead of the book launch and name names!

MY SINCERE APPRECIATION GOES TO…

To Amanda, my wife and editor-in-chief. She has put up with me fretting, stressing, laughing, crying and all around obsessing over this story for seven years. It would have been impossible without your love, support, and input. And hey, if nothing else, at least I didn’t kill you in this story.

To Michael, Alex, Andi, Jordan and Isaac, my children. For not giving me a hard time when I could have been home before 5pm, but wasn’t. Each of you inspire me to be better. I hope you enjoy my stories and that they motivate you to come up with stories of your own.

To my parents, my biggest fans. Everything I am is because of you. Thanks for always being there.

To Justin Young, my numero uno storytelling companion. For your constant pushing and encouraging for me to do gooder. Your thoughts and insight were game changers. My characters nodding will never be the same.

To Lana Krumwiede, my writing mentor and friend. It is no accident we met when we did. You gave me a chance and put your arms around me and helped me understand truly what was possible. I will never be able to repay you.

To Richmond Children’s Writer Group, my local comrades in storytelling. For the time, attention, and care you gave in your critiques. I learned more than I ever thought possible.

To David Estes, my digital pen pal. Your sincere love and energy of writing is infectious (in a good way). Because you never gave up on your dream, I didn’t give up on mine.

To Trey G. and Kaitlyn S., my snowblitz buddies. For all the hot summer hours helping me shave ice and create Jeanette’s world.

To Courtney S., one of my first beta readers. For not being afraid to give me a different perspective. Your humble encouragement always seem to come at just the right time.

To Kristin P., my greatest cheerleader. For always, well, being my greatest cheerleader. Never has anyone liked my Facebook posts with such speed. It is appreciated!

To Brooke ‘The Cover Contessa’, my educator of all things blog-ish. For not telling me no when you could have. Your positive influence kept me taking it one step at a time. Thank you!

To Molly Jaffa, for taking the time to get to know me at that conference so many years ago. You showed me by example that the more you give, the more you get. I sincerely hope you are on the receiving end of all the success you deserve.

To Kristi Tuck Austin, for everything you do for all the writers in Richmond. I have no idea how many hours went into all the programs you have planned, coordinated, and led, but please know that they changed my life.

To Enya, my muse. Yes, that Enya. If you ever happen to read this, know that if there was ever an award for the person who has listened to the album Amarantine the most, it would be me. Those songs stirred my soul and whispered to me. They are the spirit of MAIDEN. Thank you for sharing your gift.