For Ruth and all of the book club members: Darlene, Ellie, Frances, Grace, Kim, Melissa, and Pat. Thanks for your support and for many memorable afternoons.

DEBORAH SIMMONS

A former journalist, Deborah turned to fiction after a love of historical romances spurred her to write her own, Heart’s Masquerade, which was published in 1989. She has since written more than twenty-five novels and nov-ellas, among them a USA TODAY bestselling anthology and two finalists in the Romance Writers of America’s annual RITA® Award competition. Her books have been published in twenty-six countries, including illustrated editions in Japan, and she’s grateful for the support of her readers throughout the world.