Acknowledgements:
There are a small group of folks outside of those mentioned in the introduction whose assistance was vital in seeing this book to its completion. Firstly my editor, Valerie Ford, who I sincerely thank for all her hard work and strict attention to detail, as well as simply transforming the editorial task into a fun learning experience. Next, to those who reviewed, supported and offered precious feedback for early drafts of this tale, specifically, Domenic Verlezza and his son Dom Jr., Josie Belle Cooke, and most especially Roger Schumacher, for all his intense, yet wholly engaging scrutiny, wonderful and generous criticism and ongoing analysis of all things ‘Exiles’. To those who answered my call to arms, who played vital role(s) in making this book far more than just words on paper, my heartfelt thanks to each of you: Alexa Cutro, Brett Temple, Abby Clark and Samantha Mishinski, along with Donna, Jennie and Maggie and Linda. Lastly and most importantly to my two true loves: Ann, my infinitely patient wife, thank you for all your ever-present love and support, along with my five year-old daughter, Grace, who has been listening to Marie’s exploits as long as she can remember …