Thanks to the poets, thinkers, historical figures and writers for their pointed words of wisdom used in the quotations that lead the major sections of this story. Their words are all properly attributed in the references or in the narrative if spoken by any of the characters in the novel for added emphasis.
(1) Text quoted by Maeve in the narrative on page 292 is a reference from information on the Assassin cults found at: http://www.outremer.co.uk/assassins.html
Thanks also to Richard Gylgayton for his tireless editorial wisdom, and Mark (aka Nordhausen) Prost. Both are always “first readers” for my novels, and friends of the highest order. And to dear Candace, Richard’s wife, a hearty thank you for inspiring the creation of my intrepid Maeve Lindford.