As ever, many thanks to my agent Bill Contardi—our partnership has outlasted most Hollywood marriages! You have been there with me from the start (2008), and I’m grateful! To my publisher Georgia McBride, who has done everything to support me as an author and my titles. I’m so happy that Skybright found a home with Month9Books and that we have been able to take this journey together. It has been amazing. Thank you!
Thank you to my editor Cameron Yeager for your careful reading, thoughtful comments, and taking this novel to the next level. But most of all, thank you for giving Sacrifice the perfect title it has!
To my amazing critique group: Kirsten, John, Amy, and Mark; my books would not be half as good if not for your valuable feedback throughout the years. Your encouragement and friendship, I value even more!
To Holly, Delia, and Sarah for taking the time to talk through this novel with me in Mexico. Holly: I’m sorry I didn’t include a sex scene as you had directed. I shall endeavor to make up for this in future writings. Delia: You suggested that it’d be best if someone died. Well. Sarah: Blossom is our love child! Baby demons 4ever! And much gratitude to Cassie for having me! Sacrifice got its start in San Miguel de Allende with all of you.
Fuzzy hugs to Malinda Lo for taking the time to beta read and offer insightful feedback.
This novel is inspired by the incredible women writers in my life, who make me laugh, encourage me, and lift me up. They show me what it means to be brave, and take risks in our art, each and every day. Thank you always. Never stop being amazing and being exactly who you are.
In memory of Taru Rivera, fellow Chinese brush artist and troublemaker who loved all the fantastically weird stories that I write. This one’s for you, Taru. We miss you.
And last but never least, for my m, sweet pea, and munchkin. I love you!
San Diego
June 29, 2016