Author's Afterword

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Afterword

The genesis of No Life to Lose was a story that I wrote in high school. I submitted it to a Toronto Star contest and was emotionally crushed not to merit even an honorable mention. In retrospect, I understand exactly why (aside from how poorly written it may have been). The idea was much too big for a seven page story. Actually, it was almost too big for this novel. Doing it justice was hard.

...Assuming that I did do it justice.

A word about myself: I started off writing purely for my own sake. Over the years, that attitude has shifted, becoming more akin to Casey Carter's attitude toward song. Writing is now a way for me to leave something behind. When I look back on this life, I would love to say that something I've written helped someone, as the writing of others has helped me.

Stephen King believes a story to be a collaborative journey: a journey taken by reader and writer together. To you, the reader, for coming this far with me ... thank you.

I hope we can meet again, for another trip.

Michael J. Riedstra
June, 2013

*** If you loved or hated this book enough to want to contact me, please do vote on any chapters you liked, write some glowing praise, or write some raging hate mail. Feedback is always appreciated, no matter what the form.

Until then ... take care, be happy, and read always. ***

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