Writing and researching this book has been a deeply emotional experience. I’m so grateful to everyone who has walked this path with me, offering their time, insights, perspective, and unique skills.
To Steph Nelson, Anna Gamel, Faith M. Gardner, Brett Mitchell Kent, Dan Blewitt, Nikki Hunter, Chelsea Robarge Fife, Lisa Butterworth, Jacob Robarts, Lisa Hunter, Caleb Stephens, and Jeanne Allen—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your feedback was instrumental in shaping this novel. Each of you brought unique perspectives that helped me dig deeper into the characters, the story, and the emotions underpinning the novel. I’m profoundly lucky to have had your thoughts and encouragement along the way.
To Deborah J Ledford, who took this manuscript and elevated it so skillfully—thank you. Your keen eye and unique perspective as both a talented author of psychological suspense and a woman of indigenous heritage, brought so much clarity and polish to the story. I’m so appreciative of your dedication, kindness, and care in helping me refine this book.
A special thank you to Sarah Clark, who lent her expertise as a cultural consultant. Sarah, your guidance ensured that this story was shaped with the respect and authenticity it deserves. Your knowledge and sensitivity were invaluable, and I am so thankful for your input.
To Patti Geesey, thank you for your skilled proofreading. Your sharp eye caught those little things that slipped through the cracks, ensuring that this story was as clean and cohesive as possible.
And last, but not least, to Nate Ihli who listened to me exclaim at every other sentence in the different historical reference books I carried around with me for so many months, and believed in this project before I’d written a single word.
This novel wouldn’t be what it is without all of you. Thank you for believing in this story—and in me. I’m endlessly grateful for your support and for the roles each of you played in bringing this book to life.