What a joy this book was to write! Bringing a touch of the Wild West to Bruncliffe has been a real rootin’-tootin’ ride. But this magnificent seventh wouldn’t have been possible without the brilliant assistance of a posse of people. So the following are owed some refried beans and beef jerky around the campfire:
First up, lawman and all round wonderful person, PC Harry Carpenter, who has done his best to keep me on the straight and narrow across the entire series but has now hung up his badge and is headed for pastures new. Thanks a million, Harry. It’s been a privilege to have your input and a joy to hear your stories.
Next is a woman more than capable of roping a steer – Catherine Speakman of North West Equine Vets, who always lends me her veterinary expertise without complaint. She’s someone I’d definitely want alongside me on a wagon train. Likewise, expert local ranchers Rachael and Robin Booth. Unfazed by the daftest of questions, including ones about the aggressive nature of Suffolk rams, they always make time for this greenhorn from out of town.
Another one who knows a thing or two about horses is Alison Slinn. Her passion for the Cleveland Bay – coincidentally also known historically as the Chapman thanks to their association with the chapmen (travelling salesmen) of Yorkshire – is contagious and so I couldn’t resist sharing it when it came to Hannah Wilson’s gorgeous horse. Alison also let me steal the name Thor – I hope I did him justice, Alison.
Perhaps the biggest thanks for this book have to go to my dad – an outlaw born and bred! He introduced me at a tender age to the likes of J. T. Edson and Louis L’Amour and so the seeds of this novel were born. And a debt of gratitude is also owed to his knitting-needle-toting partner, my mum, who was able to tell me how realistic it was to knit a jumper in one night . . . As for my sister Claire, yet again she’s proven willing to ride to the rescue when I need a first reader. Thanks for being such a fabulous scout!
Also accompanying this wagon train across the writing prairie were various crack shots from the world of publishing. From Pan Macmillan, it was fab to have Vicki back behind the reins with Ellah riding shotgun; Charlotte, Fraser and Natalie made sure no wheels fell off; while Hannah excelled at putting up ‘Wanted’ posters in every town. Their efforts were mirrored by the posse at La Bête Noire, Camille leading a team including Dominique and Stéphanie, who all had the sole aim of making this yarn the best it could be in French. Cracking the whip over it all was Oli, the sharpest shooter in the agenting world.
Finally, to all the fans of Bruncliffe who’ve been going crazier than a bronco in the bucking chute for the last twelve months, waiting to see what would happen next – I owe you for your patience! And as always a massive thanks to Mark, the best darn pardner a gal could hope for.