by R. K. Ryals
About the Author
R.K. Ryals is the author of emotional and gripping young adult and new adult paranormal romance, contemporary romance, and fantasy. With a strong passion for charity and literacy, she works as a full-time writer encouraging people to “share the love of reading one book at a time.” An avid animal lover and self-proclaimed coffee-holic, R.K. Ryals was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and makes her home in the Southern United States with her husband, three daughters, a playful cat named Delphi, and a coffeepot she honestly couldn’t live without. Should she ever become the owner of a fire-breathing dragon (tame of course), her life would be complete. Visit her at www.authorrkryals.com.
Acknowledgments
A book is a journey no one takes alone. I owe so much to the people who have followed me on this crazy adventure.
First, I have to thank my husband, whose patience and diligence in the face of my crazy coffee-induced long days should be reserved for saints. His tireless support means the world. Thanks to my daughters, who inspire me on a daily basis. I am truly blessed with amazing children. They have passion, determination, and resilience. Raising them to be the strong women I am watching them become humbles me.
A heartfelt thank you to my personal assistant, Christina Silcox. I am so very grateful for all of the late-night messages, motivating phone calls, and unerring friendship. I am proud to call you a part of my family. You amaze me.
To Jessica Johnson and Amanda Engelkes, who have spent the last two months letting me use them for a sounding board. This has been so important to me and for me. Thank you.
A special thank you to a group of loyal women who have followed me since the beginning of my career. To my Archive girls and my Scribes group, the dedication you have shown me is not taken for granted.
There are no words big enough to express how grateful I am to be a part of the Havenwood Falls family. Thank you, Kristie Cook, for creating this world and allowing all of us to play in it. It is no easy task to build a shared universe, and I am blown away by the hard work and diligence you put into everything you do. What an amazing and talented family you have allowed me to enter.
Huge thanks and crushing hugs to the Havenwood Falls authors who let me borrow the wonderful characters that make this story so strong. To Michele G. Miller, for the use of Elias. He is a wonderful character and was such a joy to work with. He has definitely left an impression on Harper and on me. To Kristie Cook, for the use of Saundra Beaumont. Her strength and firm loyalty to Havenwood Falls brings this novella full circle. Also for the use of Addie Beaumont. To E.J. Fechenda, for the use of Elsmed and Willow Fairchild. Having them involved in Ink & Fire brought Harper the strength and empathy she needed to move forward. To Kallie Ross, for the use of Ric Kasun. Havenwood Falls could not ask for a better sheriff. These characters lent so much to this story and to Harper’s development. To the rest of the Havenwood Falls authors, for the characters they’ve created, some of which are mentioned in Harper’s journey.
A massive shout out to Regina Wamba for the beautiful cover art. The Havenwood Falls novellas would not be the same without you. Your work astounds me.
To the Havenwood Falls family. Every day we grow bigger and stronger. A shared universe is born from the strength of its members. I respect all of you so very much. Your talent, dedication, and friendship is something I will always be grateful to know and be a part of.
To my Redemption fans who gave me the push to want to bring Lucas back to life even for a little while. He was a part of a series that birthed my career, and I can’t thank all of you enough for being a part of that.
Finally, to my readers, you take my breath away. It means the world that you read my words. I am extremely grateful for your support on this insane journey full of crazy twists and turns. My love to you always.