No Mercy

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

First off, I can’t say enough about how wonderful it was to work with my terrific editor, Trish Lande Grader. I’m honored to have had her expertise and vision for this book as well as the insight from Pocket editor Abby Zidle, and to get me (and Mercy) on the right course. A sincere thank-you seems inadequate.

Thanks to my agent, Scott Miller.

I need to thank several people in my life who read through this book in its various stages: Mary LaHood has been a steady, honest, and valued critique partner for years; my buddy, author Toni McGee Causey, for letting me bounce ideas off her up until the very end; and also to my author friend Mary Stella, who has offered support in many forms; and my blonde trouble twin, Cat Cody.

My First Offenders blog pals, Jeff Shelby, Karen Olson, and Alison Gaylin, who are so much more than “just” blog partners; and Jeff, the hilarious video announcing the “deal” was above and beyond, my friend.

A twenty-one-gun salute to the folks at H-S Precision in Rapid City for letting me shoot the prototype sniper rifle and for not balking at my bajillion questions.

And a huge debt of gratitude to the soldier/sharpshooter who gave me the lowdown on army life in wartime.

Thanks to our friends Mark and Lisa Sanders, who graciously opened their beautiful ranch to us, patiently answered every question I asked about life as a rancher in western South Dakota, drove us all over the gorgeous chunk of earth they call home-anytime I asked. Truly, your friendship and generosity knows no bounds. I’m humbled… and jealous, ’cause damn do I love your spread.

To J. Carson Black for all her expert equine help, many, many thanks… and yes, I do throw good fillies.

To my family, daughters Lauren, Haley, and Tessa, thanks for not minding when I’m in my own little fictional world. And lastly, a big wet kiss to my husband Erin, for his unwavering belief in me and this unpredictable career of mine, and for being the real gun expert behind the scenes.

I owe a big thank-you to all the readers, librarians, bookstore personnel, and fans who’ve contacted me and have been supportive from the very first book. It means more than I can possibly express.