“Madame Vice President, now that your appointment has been continued, what will be your first course of business?”
Carolyn beamed. “To institute the War on Drugs program and reform the social services system.” Finally, her goals would become reality.
Acknowledgments
Writing is years of taking baby steps toward the goal of publishing a quality piece of work. Along the way many have held my hand and assisted me in keeping my balance. Some have taught me to crawl, walk, and run with my writing. Others have dried my tears when I fell, or pushed me forward when I hesitated. To all of you I want to give a big hug and a heartfelt thank you.
First and foremost, my husband, Jeffery, who sees the best in me even when I don’t. My children, Katie and Taylor, who often wish they had a “normal” mother who didn’t write, but support my efforts regardless.
A special thank you to my Mom and Dad. I’m blessed to have you as parents.
My family Chuck, Kay, Daniel, Sue, Donna-mom and Terry-dad, Chuckie and Mikey, and my extended family of friends, you know who you are, who keep me sane as possible – not an easy task. I love you all.
No writer works alone. Many people have assisted me in my many months of research. Some of you have asked that your names be withheld for political reasons, but please accept my sincere thanks for all of your insight and information.
Doctor Daniel Kostalnick (boy – that has a nice ring to it), you’ve been invaluable in your constant support and research on my many questions from psychiatric profiles to how to commit murder. Suzanne Kostalnick, my first editor, who suffered through all of those awful first drafts.
I must also thank those who’ve taught me what it means to be a writer. Terry Brooks, an extraordinary writer who’s forgotten more about the craft than I will ever know, but who graciously shares his wealth of knowledge. You are an incredible teacher, thank you for taking the time.
Elizabeth George, your unending drive for perfection, analytical mind and phenomenal writing talent are matched by your teaching skills. I count myself fortunate to have had such an amazing instructor. Thank you.
John Saul and Mike Sack, your boot prints are firmly etched on my backside, and I’m grateful for it. Thank you for taking me under your wings, teaching me a multitude about writing, and becoming my mentors, and friends. I love you both.
Don McQuinn, your guidance has been invaluable. Love to you and Carol.
Danelle McCafferty, editor extraordinaire, we work hard, we laugh hard, and nothing I write goes out without your final stamp of approval. Thank you for being my second set of eyes.
Richard Marek, thank you for taking my writing to another level.
Laura Taylor, one of my first instructors. You’ve stuck with me through thick and thin, nurturing any glimpse of talent and always being supportive. You’re a terrific friend. Love and hugs.
I could go on and on with this list, so I will simply say thank you to all of you who have assisted with this project. Your time and effort is greatly appreciated.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
KATHLEEN ANTRIM has won numerous awards for her writing. She has been a columnist for the ANG Newspaper Group in the San Francisco Bay Area. Residing in Northern California with her husband and two daughters, Kathleen is currently at work on her next novel.
