DEDICATION

This book could not have been possible without the support of some of the dearest people in my life, those who are with me every single day…in one way or another.

Rachel Connolly. My friend, my right hand, my litmus test for tears—not to mention one hell of a cover designer, assistant, and person. Thank you so much for believing we’d finally get to work on this project and embracing it as wholly as you did.

William Black. My husband, my other half, my reason for being able to open up and write this. It goes without saying that you’re behind me always, that you listen to me (even when it’s after midnight and you’re trying to sleep), and that you love me unconditionally. Thanks for being as enthusiastic as I am!

Jenna Jacob. All the late-night phone calls and listening to me go on and on when I was stuck and unsure. Thanks for stopping what you were doing to just hear me. Sometimes that means more than anything.

I must also thank (with big squishy hugs) Baby Black for being not just my daughter but my friend and often my partner in makeup, reality TV, and silly ice cream crimes. Shannon Hunt deserves kudos for expanding her musical horizons so quickly for this story and still speaking to me when I left her in beta-reading, cliffhanging hell. Lexi Blake for insisting that I should. Isabella LaPearl for your excellent vocal skills and critical questions, and reminding me that I could. My late beloved Meow because losing you made me think so hard about communicating love to another being, which is part of when and how I realized that words weren’t always possible…or necessary. I hope you’re enjoying your life over the rainbow bridge.

Thanks also to Liz Berry and Shayla Freshetian for beta reading, commenting, and giving me your excitement!

You are all wonderful and I feel so blessed!