The White Ghost (35 page)

Acknowledgments

I owe a
great debt to my wife, Deborah Mandel, for her constancy in all things. Her support, understanding, companionship, studied reading, and first draft editing all go a long way in making these novels what they are.

Early reader Michael Gordon, family member, memoirist, and writer, continues to provide lucid and vital comments to my first drafts, improving each story in important ways.

Soho Press, a fine independent publisher under the inspired leadership of Bronwen Hruska, is due a debt of thanks from me and many, many readers for giving Billy Boyle such a supportive and friendly home. Mark Doten (a superb author himself) is my third editor since this series began over ten years ago, and he is continuing in the great tradition of Laura Hruska and Juliet Grames. His red pencil is gentle, thoughtful, and unerring.

And to Dan Cosgrove, illustrator; thanks for the terrific covers. Your artistry has helped shape the brand for the Billy Boyle novels.