I did not magically transform from a structural engineer into an author overnight. Many wonderful people supported me through the trials and errors of this five-year journey. The fabulous ladies of my book club bravely read and critiqued the second draft of The Dead Key. My mother, mother-in-law, sisters, and best friends read drafts and encouraged me to keep writing. Cara Kissling made the first attempt to edit the manuscript and help me find my way. Adam Katz provided a thorough and insightful critique that put my writing and the book on the right path. Doris Michaels provided sage advice and guidance. My editors at Thomas & Mercer, especially Andrea Hurst, shined a light into every dimly lit corner of my novel and helped bring the fuzzy edges into focus.

The Dead Key would not have been possible without my family. My two little boys gave me the courage to quit my day job. They played together as nicely as two brothers could manage while Mommy holed up in her office, writing. My amazing husband read every draft, every edit, every stinking word I wrote and somehow remained my biggest fan. There are no words to express my gratitude.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Photo © 2014 Steven Mastroianni

D. M. Pulley’s first novel, The Dead Key, was inspired by her work as a structural engineer in Cleveland, Ohio. During a survey of an abandoned building, she discovered a basement vault full of unclaimed safe deposit boxes. The mystery behind the vault haunted her for years, until she put down her calculator and started writing. The Dead Key was the 2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award grand prize winner. Pulley continues to work as a private consultant and forensic engineer, investigating building failures and designing renovations. She lives in northeast Ohio with her husband and two children, and she is currently at work on her second novel. Visit her website at www.dmpulley.com or find her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/thedeadkey.