To my husband, Christopher, who has endlessly understood every weekend, early morning, or late night that I had to disappear into my writing cave for this story: I appreciate all you do to keep me fed, washed, and somewhat functional during these times I slip into another realm. I have been able to climb mountains knowing you have been beside me every step of the way. My love for you expands realms.
To my agent, Aimee Ashcraft at Brower Literary: You are more than an agent; you’re a friend. Your dedication in helping me reach each milestone, along with your constant optimism, has truly been the biggest guiding light. Thank you for pushing me when I’ve wanted to stop and always being an understanding text and call away.
To Lauren Plude, my warrior-editor extraordinaire: With each book, you have taught me so much, have championed these sisters with a passion that matches my own, and have been one of my biggest advocates in ensuring my words get heard. I am thankful for more than what can be written in these acknowledgments, but know you are a goddess among the gods.
To everyone on the Montlake team who has helped this series shine so beautifully and brightly, especially Kris Beecroft, Lauren Grange, Jessica Preeg, and Elena Stokes: Thank you, thank you, thank you. Our dearest Bassette sisters would not have reached so many hands without your care and devotion.
To Micaela Alcaino, the genius artist behind the covers in the Mousai Series: Your vision and creativity know no bounds. I am continuously in awe that you are part of our team.
To my parents and sisters: It is the honest truth that this series would not exist if it weren’t for each and every one of you. As I grew up, you inspired and advocated for wild imaginings, and every day since you have helped a young girl’s fantasy to become a reality.
To my son, who will be born by the time this book releases: I wrote the majority of this story while you were kicking inside me. You were my constant companion through every round of rewrites and the tireless nights of edits, and you kept my head in the game while also helping me know when I needed to rest. You are my heart, and I cannot wait to one day write a story for you.
Staci Hart, a name synonymous with powerhouse and devotion, you were here before there was a “here” and have helped with every road I have dared to go down. Every person, every writer, should be so lucky as to have a friend like you by their side.
To my reader group, the Mellow Misfits, and every book blogger, reviewer, and reader who has supported, promoted, and shared their love for my books and this series: I humbly bow to you. I quite literally could not continue telling these stories without your support and devotion. You are the flame that moves my fingers across my keyboard and the pulse that keeps my heart beating to write.