Acknowledgements
The idea that spawned The Delta Project hit me like a lighting
bolt on a dark, cold night as I left my office and walked to my car. It would
not leave me alone and after a few weeks I decided to write it down. That was
almost two years ago and it has been quite a ride. This is my first novel and,
to be honest, I never thought I had it in me. I have always enjoyed reading but
never saw myself as a writer.
I had some help along the way, thank God, because I could
never have done it on my own. Many people unwittingly influenced and encouraged
me, and I am grateful to all. There are, however, several individuals that deserve
special thanks. My wife, Liz, became
my Editor-in-Chief and always encouraged me to keep plodding, even when I wanted to throw in the towel. Our three sons, Eric, Scott and Keith, who are terrific young men, have been steadfast positive influences. Tracy O’Callaghan always, always, always told me to listen to the voice within. Art Noonan told me to quit screwing around and get it done! Pam Nash, whom I met electronically through her sister Kristina, read a few chapters of a draft and told
me she wanted to keep turning the pages – probably the highest compliment a writer can receive.
If you like this story, credit those who helped. If you don’t, blame me. The errors and foibles are mine
alone.
I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Mark Earnest
Chicago, Illinois
November, 2005
