Blue Diablo

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

First, I’ll thank everyone who contributed to this book: my husband, Andres, who read the first draft; my agent, Laura Bradford, who didn’t think she’d like it (then she did); and of course, the wonderful Ivette, who gently corrected my Spanish. I also can’t forget the talented staff at Roc. Once again, Anne Sowards has turned my coal into a diamond.

Next, I should mention the people of Mexico, who charmed and informed me. I did my best to capture the magic of living as an expatriate in Mexico City. Many of Corine’s observations come filtered through my eyes. There’s a rich tapestry of belief in the supernatural running in an odd lockstep alongside Catholicism, and people are generally more accepting of the mystical and/or inexplicable there. There is a whole town of witches and warlocks in Catemaco. In fact, there’s a precendent for the cartels hiring brujos to work hexes as they would hit men to kill. I tried to be true to the many stories I heard from friends and relatives. Any mistakes or liberties are my own.

Finally, I must thank my readers. I’d be nothing without all of you. I welcome your letters and appreciate your support more than I can say. I hope you enjoy the world I’ve created.