One of the few constants in my young writing career has been my terrific agents, Lane Zachary and Todd Shuster. They have guided me through the process three times now, and Lane worked with me on several drafts of this novel. I appreciate their advice and friendship.
My editor, George Witte, and I shared a vision for this book and he had excellent suggestions. I’ve had a range of experience with editors, and it’s my hope to work with George on many books to come.
Thanks also to the rest of the team at Macmillan/St. Martin’s Press: Don Weisberg, Sally Richardson, Dori Weintraub, Laura Clark, Sara Thwaite, Alastair Hayes. Thanks to Kathleen Carter Zrelak.
In the course of my research for this novel, I spoke with several friends and athletes who provided valuable input: James Blake, John Isner, Tiago Espirito Santo, Wayne Street, Sara Whalen Hess, Scott Kegler, Andy Postman.
Many thanks to Jean Frazier, Anna Serbek, Eileen Mitchell and MaryEllen Kazar at the Beach Haven Library. My favorite place to write.
My mother and father introduced to me both (fun and recreational) tennis and a love of reading. An important combination for this book. I still exchange book recommendations with my mom and am always fascinated to hear her insightful take.
Yates, Yardley and Thatcher attended my last Barnes & Noble book signing, though they did cartwheels around the audience rather than listen in. They’ve come to know the libraries and bookstores as my offices as well as a place to find books for themselves. Their interest in reading is growing. Each day that I write, in the back of my mind is the thought that one day they will turn these pages too. One more reason to write my best.
Last and most, thank you to Megyn. She is with me from inception to completion and is the first, often the only, person I want to share with, in any aspect of my writing or of my life. Our love grows stronger.