True Evil

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As always, I am indebted to many individuals for their help in the writing of this novel. I am constantly amazed and gratified to see how generous people are with their time when they know they are contributing to a creative enterprise

First and foremost, I thank the physicians who gave of their time: Joe Files, MD, Rod Givens, MD, Tom Carey, MD, Jerry Iles, MD.

No reader should infer that the Medical Center in the novel is based on the University of Mississippi Medical Center. I did not visit the actual Cancer Institute there until my first draft was completed, specifically to minimize any accidental similarities that might occur. Anyone familiar with the real UMC will see that I have created a fictional hospital with a fictional staff. That said, I want all readers to know that Dr. Files and his colleagues have built a world-class facility in Jackson, especially as regards their bone marrow transplant unit. I urge all Mississippians, and all Americans concerned with providing healthcare to some of our nation's most disadvantaged citizens, to support the UMC Cancer Institute with their dollars. You could not find a worthier cause.

Second, many friends have supplied expertise that helped a great deal with this book. Mike MacInnis, a fine lawyer and great friend from my college days, helped in a pinch. Also Lee Jones, Clinton Heard, Kent Hudson, Betty Iles, Nancy Hungerford, and Curtis Moroney.

For his help in all stages of the process, my good friend and former editor, Ed Stackler.

My appreciation also to the professionals in the chain, primarily for seeing my books as more than business: Aaron Priest, Susan Moldow, and Louise Burke. Thanks also to Eileen Hutton at Brilliance Audio for her generous support of Trinity Episcopal Day School.

For their help with the remarkable and exciting cover shoot of a rather irritated cottonmouth water moccasin: Ben Hillyer (photographer), Keith Benoist (snake wrangler), Terry Vandeventer (herpetologist), Amanda Hargrove (bed provider), Melissa Morrison (decor), Jane Hargrove (beer and food and reminding us that "YOU'RE TOO CLOSE TO THE SNAKE!").

At least one mistake of fact finds it way into each of my books, and some have more. The above experts are absolved of everything. All mistakes are mine.