Thanks must go to a group of people who make the world of writing and research enjoyable, and who keep me from making too many mistakes.
The world of martial arts is a new one to me, and one I never would have entered without my friend Jenny Baumgartner. Besides being a blackbelt in hapkido, she is a writer in her own right, and I hope to soon see her books on the shelves. Master Doug Custer is a wealth of information, and very generous with his knowledge. Many thanks to him and his students, who were willing to be guinea pigs for my research. Grandmaster Rudy Timmerman was kind enough to allow me to use his name in the book, and his interest and enthusiasm are gratifying.
John Bellomo, my friend and a talented Fight Director, was instrumental in choosing the play in the book, and in designing the stage combat scenes.
Doug P. Lyle, MD, once again answered medical questions with detail and expediency.
My friend, lawyer Don Witter, answered tough questions, and gave me some great ideas.
My hubby, Steve Smucker, besides allowing me to live a writer’s life and squirrel myself away in my office, knows more about cars and appliances than I ever hope to, and always answers my mechanical questions.
My parents, Philip and Nancy Clemens, my first readers and number one fans, are more of a support than they can ever know.
A huge thank you to my children, Tristan and Sophia, for their interest and for understanding that sometimes I have to “go away to do book stuff.”
And finally, to the people of Poisoned Pen Press, you make this crazy business a joy.