Acknowledgments

One of the great things about working with SQL Server is the incredible support community that has grown alongside the product. From local user groups to conferences and forum websites, these media offer a breadth and depth of knowledge that's possible only because many talented people are willing to share their valuable time in helping others.

In addition to my own experience, this book draws on the knowledge and experience of many others; in particular, I'd like to thank SQL Server MVPs Kevin Kline, Peter Ward, Paul Randal, and Microsoft's Michael Redman.

Thanks also to the reviewers who took time out of their busy schedules to read the manuscript at various stages during its development. Their feedback helped make this a better book: Andrew Siemer, Bettina Hamboeck, Berndt Hamboeck, Massimo Perga, Darren Neimke, Dave Corun, Peter Lee, Richard Siddaway, Sanchet Dighe, Tariq Ahmed, Amos Bannister, and Deepak Vohra. Special thanks to Kevin Kline for writing the foreword and to Peter Ward who reviewed the manuscript and also proofread it shortly before it went to press.

To the Manning team, in particular Michael Stephens, Tom Cirtin, Steven Hong, Katie Tennant, Linda Recktenwald, and Mary Piergies: thank you for your support, encouragement, and ideas. All of you have contributed to a product that I doubted I was capable of producing and will look back on with fond memories for many years to come.

Finally, to my amazing wife and children, Jodee, Lachlan, and Isabella: thanks for your unwavering support, love, and understanding over the last 18 months. I owe all of you plenty of one-on-one time!