You know, every time I write my acknowledgements, I feel a little bit like Ava, in complete awe of all the people God has put into my life who show me his love every day. I thank him for blessing me with an amazing, supportive, all-around-wonderful husband and four incredible, creative, Jesus-loving children. As much as I love the time I spend with my imaginary friends from River Falls, I love and treasure time with the five of you even more. You bring joy and laughter and pure delight to my life.
I also thank God for all the people in my life who I may not see every day but who I know are rooting for me and encouraging me just the same: my parents and sister, in-laws, extended family, friends, and even people I’ve never met in person. What a blessing!
And while I’m thanking God, I have to offer an extra warm thanks for my advance reader team, who offered their wise feedback and insights on Ava and Joseph’s story: Jessica Koeser, Michelle M., Vickie, Judy L., Swtkapoor, Sandy Golinger, Jenny M., Jennifer Ellenson, Karen Jernigan, Jean S., Ilona, Jenny Kilgallen, Trista Heuer, Rhondia Cannon, Melanie Tate, Pat, Chinye, Becky Collins, Sandy H. Mary S., Terri Camp, Seyi A., Jan Gilmour, Aurélie Detampel, Lincoln Clark, Bonny Rambarran, Trudy Cordle, Mary Tanner, Vickie Escalante, Carol Brandon, Shelia Garrison, Korkoi Boret, Ann M. Diener, Pam Williams, Margaret N., Kris Boardman, Barb Frey, Paula Hurdle, Judith, Sharon, Patty Bohuslav, NJM, Jeanne Olynick, Karen Bonner, Connie, Kellie P., Gary L. Richards, Alison K., Vikki, Teresa M., Bobbie McCord, Kelly Wickham, Connie Gandy, Kori Thomas, Deb Galloway, Karalee, Jaime Fipp, Karen, Becky C., Barb Miller, Tonya, and Kvee.
And finally, I thank God for you! Thank you for spending time with these characters I’ve grown to love. I hope they’ve found a place in your heart―and more importantly that you’ve been reminded of your place in God’s heart and your identity as his bride. God’s blessings to you!
About the Author
Valerie M. Bodden has three great loves: Jesus, her family, and books. And chocolate (okay, four great loves). She is living out her happily ever after with her high-school-sweetheart-turned-husband and their four children. Her life wouldn’t make a terribly exciting book, as it has a happy beginning and middle, and someday when she goes to her heavenly home, it will have a happy end.
She was born and raised in Wisconsin but recently moved with her family to Texas, where they’re all getting used to the warm weather (she doesn’t miss the snow even a little bit, though the rest of the family does) and saying y’all instead of you guys.
Valerie writes emotion-filled Christian fiction that weaves real-life problems, real-life people, and real-life faith. Her characters may (okay, will) experience some heartache along the way, but she will always give them a happy ending.
Feel free to stop by www.valeriembodden.com to say hi. She loves visitors! And while you’re there, you can sign up for your free story.
Pieces of Forever: A Christian Romance (River Falls Book 1) Page 21
