When it comes to writing fiction, I see myself as an entertainer, and my stories are my performances. When it comes to being an entertainer, I am a natural comedian, and when I am writing, this joker is wild. Unfortunately, my co-author Andalib Marx was killed in an auto accident during the first weekend of October, 2011. I am overwhelmed by her loss. She was not only my friend and co-author; but while writing this book she was also my inspiration, the story's star, and its leading lady. I will truly miss her from now on. However, As long as this book that she and I created exists, Andalib Marx will always be alive for me, upon every one of its pages. Here's looking at you Andalib! We'll always have Shellfish Shoals! So here you are ladies and gentlemen, whenever you're ready to read, this performance is about to begin. William D'Andrea