I have many people to thank for their support, advice, and suggestions that enabled this story to come to life. My dream to visit the romantic city of Paris came true when we took our dog on a road trip to visit friends living on the outskirts of the city. Paris, and the surrounding area, was everything I imagined it to be and more. So, the first people I wish to thank are Alain and Catherine Marsan who were the very best hosts. They took the time to show us around the city as well as Versailles and Giverny, treated us to amazing French cuisine, and proudly shared their love of this incredible part of the world. I knew immediately that Amanda had to visit France. What I didn’t know at the time was that there would be a terrible fire in Notre Dame one year after my visit. This upsetting event became the basis of my story.
As always, I could not have created this adventure without the help of my critique groups in Canada and Spain. Their ability to notice details and suggestions to improve the writing has been invaluable. A huge thank you goes to Molly Ringle for her expert editing skills that put the finishing touches on the story. I also want to thank my publisher, Michelle Halket of Central Avenue Publishing, for once again producing a book I am proud of.
Thank you to my beta readers including Maureen Moss for ensuring the French words were used correctly, Marion Iberg for her razor-sharp eye for detail, and Sheila Mac-Arthur for ensuring the story flowed. To my street team of middle-graders, thank you for being you and giving me ideas and suggestions along the way. You help keep my stories fresh and current.
Most importantly, thank you to all the Amanda fans who keep asking for more adventures!