My father, Leo, for never once telling me to read, but instead reading himself, and thus infecting me with curiosity.
My good friends, Rachel Kahlandt and Gloria Avner, for taking on the task of reading the raw manuscript and offering valuable insights, and for their steadfast belief in me when I needed it most.
My agent, Russell Galen, for having the guts to be the first to pick up the sword and making my dreams reality.
My editor, James Frenkel, not only for his exceptional editorial talent, guidance, and improvements in this book, but also for his boundless good humor and patience at teaching me to be a better author along the way.
The good people at Tor, one and all, for their enthusiasm and hard work.
And two very special people, Richard and Kahlan, for choosing me to tell their story. Their tears and triumphs have touched my heart. I will never be the same again.
