I can’t believe this series is three books in already. This book was a fun one to write, and it was also incredibly difficult, as I was writing it during one of the biggest heartbreaks of my life, losing my best friend - my schnoodle, Shaggy. She gave me unconditional love and support for almost a decade, and she was a huge part of my writing career. I will be forever grateful for her presence in my life, and though we didn’t have nearly enough time, I will cherish every minute of it. Love you, Shags.
As always, I’m so grateful to my agent John Talbot for advocating for this series and making sure it got to this place. Big thanks to my editor(s) at St. Martin’s, Hannah Braaten and Nettie Finn, for making it a way better book. And the rest of the awesome team at St. Martin’s, especially my cover artist for capturing JJ so well.
When I first moved to Connecticut, I lived on the eastern side of the state, in a place I didn’t always love. If nothing else, I had some interesting experiences there! One of those experiences was a man who lived in town who everyone had dubbed “Leopard Man.” Much like the character I created, he walked around town in leopard-print gear from head to toe. Unlike the character I created, the real Leopard Man came from a dark, challenging place. I wanted to capture a quirky character and put a different face on him - make him the hero that the real Leopard Man never got to be. I hope you enjoy reading my version of this character.
And thanks to my Wicked Author sisters, Jessie Crockett/Jessica Ellicott, Sherry Harris, JA Hennrikus/Julia Henry, Edith Maxwell/Maddie Day, and Barbara Ross. Always my biggest support system. I love you ladies.
Thanks for reading!