The Soul Catcher - Alex Kava [0]
THE SOUL CATCHER
This book is dedicated to two amazing women—
fellow authors, wise mentors, treasured friends.
For
Patricia Sierra
who insisted I stay grounded, focused and on track
then nagged me until I did.
And for
Laura Van Wormer
who insisted I could soar
then gave me a gentle shove in the right direction.
In a year that asked more questions than provided
answers, just having the two of you believe in me
has meant more than I can ever express in words.
Contents
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
CHAPTER 3
CHAPTER 4
CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 7
CHAPTER 8
CHAPTER 9
CHAPTER 10
CHAPTER 11
CHAPTER 12
CHAPTER 13
CHAPTER 14
CHAPTER 15
CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 17
CHAPTER 18
CHAPTER 19
CHAPTER 20
CHAPTER 21
CHAPTER 22
CHAPTER 23
CHAPTER 24
CHAPTER 25
CHAPTER 26
CHAPTER 27
CHAPTER 28
CHAPTER 29
CHAPTER 30
CHAPTER 31
CHAPTER 32
CHAPTER 33
CHAPTER 34
CHAPTER 35
CHAPTER 36
CHAPTER 37
CHAPTER 38
CHAPTER 39
CHAPTER 40
CHAPTER 41
CHAPTER 42
CHAPTER 43
CHAPTER 44
CHAPTER 45
CHAPTER 46
CHAPTER 47
CHAPTER 48
CHAPTER 49
CHAPTER 50
CHAPTER 51
CHAPTER 52
CHAPTER 53
CHAPTER 54
CHAPTER 55
CHAPTER 56
CHAPTER 57
CHAPTER 58
CHAPTER 59
CHAPTER 60
CHAPTER 61
CHAPTER 62
CHAPTER 63
CHAPTER 64
CHAPTER 65
CHAPTER 66
CHAPTER 67
CHAPTER 68
CHAPTER 69
CHAPTER 70
CHAPTER 71
CHAPTER 72
CHAPTER 73
CHAPTER 74
CHAPTER 75
CHAPTER 76
CHAPTER 77
CHAPTER 78
EPILOGUE
COMING NEXT MONTH
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I’m a firm believer in sharing credit and giving thanks, so please be patient, as the list seems to grow with each book. Many thanks to all the professionals who so generously gave of their time and expertise. If I’ve gotten any of the facts wrong or have creatively manipulated a fact or two, blame me, not them. My appreciation and respect go to the following experts:
Amy Moore-Benson, my editor, my crusader, my creative partner and my common sense—you are truly the best.
Dianne Moggy for your patience, your focus and your wise counsel—you are a class act.
The entire crew at MIRA Books for their enthusiasm and dedication, especially Tania Charzewski, Krystyna de Duleba and Craig Swinwood. Special thanks to Alex Osuszek and an incredible sales force that continues to surpass goals and records I never dreamed to be reaching, let alone surpassing. Thanks to all of you for allowing me to be part of the team and not just the product.
Megan Underwood and the experts at Goldberg McDuffie Communications, Inc., once again, for your unflinching dedication and unquestionable expertise.
Philip Spitzer, my agent—I will forever be grateful for you taking a chance on me.
Darcy Lindner, funeral director, for answering all my morbid questions with professional grace, charm, directness and enough details to give me a tremendous respect for your profession.
Omaha police officer Tony Friend for an image of cockroaches that I’m not likely to forget.
Special Agents Jeffrey John, Art Westveer and Harry Kern for taking time out of your busy schedules at Quantico’s FBI Academy to show me around and give me some idea of what it’s like to be a “real” FBI agent and profiler. And also, thanks to Special Agent Steve Frank.
Dr. Gene Egnoski, psychologist and cousin extraordinaire, for taking time to help me psychoanalyze my killers and not thinking it strange to do so. And special thanks to Mary Egnoski for listening patiently and encouraging us.
John Philpin, author and retired forensic psychologist, for generously answering without hesitation every question I’ve ever thrown at you.
Beth Black and your wonderful staff for your energy, your unwavering support and your friendship.
Sandy Montang and the Omaha Chapter of Sisters in Crime for your inspiration.
And once again, to all the book buyers, booksellers and book readers for making room on your lists, your shelves and in your homes for a new voice.
Special thanks to all my friends and family for their love and support, especially the following:
Patti El-Kachouti, Jeanie Shoemaker Mezger and John Mezger, LaDonna