This story was written with the support and encouragement of many who saw value in the work. I am indebted to Patricia Leslie, Michelle Flammell, James Synot, Jasmina Brankovich and Elizabeth Blackthorn for all of their kind words and suggestions. I would like to express my special gratitude to Christy Byrnes for her valuable feedback on an early version of the manuscript.
A very special mention to Vivienne Fisher, who was a tremendous support to me throughout the composition of this book. I did name a character after her, but when this character took on a life of her own, one far removed from the adorable Vivienne I had come to know and cherish, I felt uncomfortable, so I changed my character"s name to Shirley. I am saddened that Vivienne never had the chance to read this novel. Her love
