This is my fourth published novel, but in many ways, it feels like my first. Tenderly, I am Devoured was born from an incredibly difficult time in my life: a deep depression and the worst creative burnout I’d ever experienced. As I slowly put the pieces of myself back together, I gravitated toward a story I hadn’t felt, until this moment, able to tell. What is on one hand a folktale about a girl and her chthonic god-husband is also an immensely personal examination of the precipice between child and adulthood, of learning to trust after betrayal, and of finding self-worth and purpose after a terrible loss. I am endlessly grateful for the support I’ve had through this journey, for everyone who helped bring this fever-dream story into the world.
To my agent, Jill Grinberg, and to Sam Farkas, Denise Page, and the amazing team at JGLM—you have been a guiding light throughout my career. It’s been a joy to have you representing my work with such enthusiasm and care. You have always seen the true heart of my stories even when they are a mess of notes and mood boards, and for that I feel so lucky.
To my wonderful US editors: Kat Brzozowski, who has been a ray of sunshine through every tempestuous step of my creative journey as a published author. I appreciate you so much and couldn’t imagine a better champion for my work. And Carina Licon, whose insightful and detailed notes pushed my writing craft to new levels. You helped shape this story into something I am incredibly proud of. To the team at MCPG: Ann Marie Wong, Rich Deas, Morgan Rath, and Gaby Salpeter, it has been a true delight to publish with you.
To my UK editor, Emma Matthewson, your keen editorial eye has helped me excavate hidden depths of this story. You have been a dream editor, and I am so thankful for your hard work in bringing my words to UK readers.
To my Australian editor, Amy Thomas, it truly feels like the fates aligned when I was able to work with you. It has been a delight to be published by PRH alongside some of my biggest inspirations, and to have your thoughtful and supportive input on my work.
To the authors who kindly took the time to read and provide praise for this book: Hannah Whitten, Erin Craig, Claire Legrand, Alexis Henderson, Meg Smitherman, I.V. Ophelia, Logan Karlie, Isabel Agajanian, Emily J. Taylor, and Elle Tesch—I appreciate you all endlessly.
To my husband, B., who has taken in stride my chaos and storms, and been such a tireless supporter, cheerleader, and listener through every step of my author journey. Being loved by you is my richest treasure. You are my heart, and I am so lucky to share my life with you. And to my sons, Felix and Orson: I love you both so much.
And finally, to you, dearest readers. I’ve held this book close to my heart for the past year, and now I hand it over to you. I hope this story makes you feel seen, and loved, and worthy of your quiet dreams.