Acknowledgments

Being a writer means spending many days alone with my laptop and a head full of imaginary characters (who seem completely real to me, by the way!), so I’m fortunate to be surrounded by actual humans who are patient and more supportive than I probably deserve.

I’m grateful to my publishing teams at HQStories and HQN Books for their continued enthusiasm and hard work. Publishing in a pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge, but they have tackled it with their usual determination, flexibility and ambition. I greatly appreciate, and admire, their efforts. Special thanks to Lisa Milton, Manpreet Grewal, Loriana Sacilotto, Margaret Marbury and Susan Swinwood.

Thanks to my brilliant editor Flo Nicoll, for always knowing exactly what a story needs to make it better, and for being such a tireless champion.

My agent Susan Ginsburg is simply the best, as is her assistant Catherine Bradshaw and the rest of the team at Writers House.

Particular thanks go to Nicola Cornick for her friendship, support and creative inspiration.

My love and gratitude to my family, for their endless patience and understanding when I’m busy with imaginary people.

And to all the people who buy my books, talk about books and send encouraging messages—thank you.