Forged in Dreams and Magick (Highland Legends #1)(105)



On a hot, muggy night at RWA Nationals in 2010, in an overcrowded restaurant with three of us huddled around a tiny table as we practiced pitching our manuscripts, a new friend asked what other story ideas I had. When I shared the rough synopsis of Forged in Dreams and Magick, she looked at me wide-eyed and said, “That’s the story you need to write.”

I am indebted to that now-dear friend and critique partner Heather, aka “City Beta,” for all the advice, support, tough critiques, laughter, and commiserating every step of the way.

Appreciation goes to my dear friend Misty, aka “Swamp Beta,” for the endless support and love, for trying out a Highlander time travel romance for the very first time, and for texting me while reading with every OMG!, sigh, and character-rooting shout.

I am profoundly grateful to my “Alpha Beta” who is my most fervent supporter, my best friend, my advisor, my counselor . . . my beloved husband. Words will never be able to adequately describe how important you are to me, but know that you make me the vibrant person that I am. It is because of your immeasurable love, patience, and support that this book exists.

Enormous thanks go to Kristi Yanta, my editor, who helped me polish the story into a diamond. Thank you for every feisty comment, every smiley, and every OMG! I cherish them all.

Gratitude also goes to my proofreader and formatter, Claire Ashgrove, for straightening out not only my grammar errors, but also for going above and beyond to offer valued comments and suggestions.

I am thankful to the contest judges and coordinators who read early versions of Forged in Dreams and Magick and challenged me to hone my craft, especially those who granted my writing awards as a finalist or winner in their paranormal categories: Gateway to the Best; Hold Me, Thrill Me; The Catherine; Unpublished Beacon; and Lone Star Contest. Your encouragement and belief in my writing was instrumental in motivating me to finish the story.

An immense thank you goes to all my friends and family for your encouragement through this three-year adventure. Your love and support have meant the world to me.

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