The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of my favorite places in the world, and I am grateful to the many people who work so hard to make it special. On countless visits, I’ve encountered keepers and docents whose commitment to animal care and educational outreach is unparalleled. While Lucy, her colleagues, and the animals in their care are entirely fictional, the passion she has for her work mirrors the very real dedication of CZA staff and volunteers. I encourage you to visit the zoo if possible. Information about the gorilla surrogacy program and the zoo’s extensive conservation efforts, as well as the sustainable palm oil shopping guide Lucy mentions in Chapter One, can be found at: https://columbuszoo.org.
My research resources included the Gorilla Species Survival Plan, Voices from the Ape House by Beth Armstrong, Woman in the Mists by Farley Mowat, Gorillas in Our Midst by Jeff Lyttle, and Gorillas in the Mist by Dian Fossey. I am grateful for these illuminating works and for the ongoing projects of experts dedicated to the conservation of gorillas in the wild.
I’m thankful for the team that brought this book to life: agent extraordinaire Jessica Watterson, my powerhouse editor Angela Kim, Hello Marine, and the entire Berkley team, including Daché Rogers, Jessica Plummer, and the production and art departments.
Many thanks to the Pitch Wars community, especially the class of 2017, and Susan Bishop Crispell, Melissa West, Kerry Winfrey, Kelly Siskind, kc dyer, Sarah Smith, and Laura Heffernan.
Thank you to the readers who sent me lovely messages about The Wedding Ringer. I cherish them.
To my husband, Chris Rea: We’ve endured so much together, and you’re the best teammate anyone could ask for. Thank you for making me laugh every single day and for loving me so deeply. You’re an amazing husband and dad, and spending life with you is an absolute joy. I love you. Reas never give up.
To Finn: Thank you for bringing back the light. Thank you for showing Daddy and me how much joy is possible. I love you, I love you, I love you.
To Ciaran: Daddy and I miss you so much, but we know you’re still with us. Thank you for sending your baby brother. Thank you for showing us that love is brave and infinite. There’s never a moment when I’m not thinking of you, my wild, beautiful boy.
Kelly: I don’t have to say because you already know. I love you. Thank you.
Mom and Dad: Thank you for making me a reader. I love you. Mom, thank you for watching Finn so I could get some work done!
Special thanks to the best godmother on the planet, Audrey Roncevich, and to Brittany Angarola, as well as the many friends whose support and companionship have made my days brighter. I am also grateful for my extended family, including the Reardons, Reas, McVeys, and Corletzis.
And finally, thank you to all the beloved animals who’ve run along ahead of us, especially Riley.