It takes countless hours and tireless hands to take an idea to a finished novel. From Gwenn, who inspired the story, to the final review of my advanced reader team, no one is unimportant or superfluous in the laborious publishing process.
There are a few names you’ll see time and time again, but I never tire of thanking them.
To my family. Without your love and support, I wouldn’t be here, doing my dream job.
To Gwenn. You not only allowed me to write this story but also supported its launch in a myriad of ways, including hosting a reader’s retreat in your lovely home.
To Elle Rush, Melissa McClone, and the other ladies in the Keepsake Christmas Anthology. The desire to join your project prompted me to write this story sooner than I’d planned, and I’m so glad I did!
To Dave Cenker. You are the most wonderful critique partner a fellow author could ask for, graciously giving of your time and writerly wisdom. Plus, your pep talks keep me sane.
To Trenda. You’re my last line of defense, and I’m so grateful for your insights.
To my amazing Advanced Reader Team. You not only catch any rascally typos that slip through the cracks, but your early reviews are invaluable to helping new readers take a chance on my books. My heartfelt thanks to the following lovely ladies: Amy, Heather, Diane, Michelle, Wendy, Pam, Dawn, Vivian, Judy, Muriel, Elsie, Patti, Kirby, Emily, Kim, Annalisa, Ingrid, Lori, Sherry, Rebecca, Diana, Natalie, AnneMarie, Anne, Ann, Robin, Lisa, and, of course, Gwenn. (PS~ My sincerest apologies if I missed you. My memory is not what it used to be. I blame motherhood and lack of sleep, although age might be a teeny-tiny factor. If I missed you, please know I’m sincerely sorry for the oversight.)
To Wilette Cruz with The Red Leaf Book Design. You beautifully incorporated Gwenn’s stunning home into a gorgeous cover that brings the story alive. And I know readers will love it.
To Beth Attwood and Krista Dapkey with KD Proofreading. You’re both eternally patient with my horrible misuse of commas. Maybe by my hundredth book, I’ll have figured them out.