THE JEALOUSY OF JALICE

Acknowledgments

Long were the years and days it took to write this book. Through those years, people have come and gone, but there are a wonderful select few who have been consistent influences in my life, and have thus impacted the development and completion of this story.

First and ever foremost, I am grateful to my parents. From an early age, they instilled in me the dedication and perseverance that would eventually propel me to actually finish this work of art. My mother’s love for books and stories cultivated my own. She would listen to my woeful rants—typical of an afflicted artist—and was always patient with my frustration and despair. I’m sure this isn’t the story she thought I would tell, but regardless, she has cheered me on from the sidelines every day of this painstakingly long process.

Next, I give thanks for the presence of David and Todd in my life. Without their reliable encouragement, this book would probably still be a work in progress with only a meager, tiny hope of making its way into the hands of readers. Both David and Todd expressed delight at the story I put together, and were among the first to experience it in full. I thank them both for putting up with my stretches of reclusive trips to the bookstore, for their patience when I experienced my darkest hours of doubt, and for their optimistic vision of my future as a writer.

Finally, I want to thank those who helped make this book a tangible product for readers:

Linda, from Cat Skinner’s beta reading services, and Asha, from Field Day Press, were excellent beta readers; they graciously took on the task of reading my earlier drafts and pointed out areas that needed improvement. This story would not be nearly as coherent without their input.

Samantha Zaboski, who took on the grand task of revisiting this book during its second edition to perform a heavy edit, thank you for making this story shine even more. Working with you has been wonderful, and it’s given me a profound appreciation for editors. Your ability to digest the story and understand my vision, all while fixing pesky typos and refining the text, is a superpower.

Thanks to the talented cover designers, George Cotronis and Natasha MacKenzie. Geroge brought a vivid allure to the ebook covers, of which I am still in awe, while Natasha created print covers that would captivate readers and invite them into my story. Both applied my notes and critiques flawlessly, and I apprecaite their pateince with me in my quest to have the best covers possible.

In closing, I say thank you once more to those listed above and to those whom I have overlooked. Each of you has influenced the words that make up this story. Without you, there would be no book titled The Jealousy of Jalice.