For Mom, who inspired me to read because she was, and to write because she wrote and told amazing stories! I'm glad she's here to read this.

And for Dad, who always encouraged me to follow my dreams. I wish he could hold a copy of this book, but I'm sure he knows.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to my friend Anne, who introduced me to Love Inspired books back when they were Steeple Hill. I belie e I can safely say that if it wasn't for her, this book wouldn't have been written. She'll always have a special place in our hearts' albums.

I'm indebted to the generous writers who helped me fine-tune my first chapter and cover blurb entry in Harlequin/Mills & Boon's annual So You Think You Can Write contest, especially Laura Hamby, Valerie Parv, Rachel J. Stevens and Kathi Robb Harris. I also thank Danic Favorite, who assured me that the editors would contact anyone whose work they wanted to see, even if the manuscript didn't make it past the first round of voting. Many thanks to Tina James, who requested the full manuscript and a synopsis, Lynette Eason, who helped me improve my synopsis, and to Elizabeth Mazer, my editor who called and bought the book! Through the revision process, she's helped me make it so much better than it was in its beginning!