This book has come about thanks to a number of people who have inspired and influenced me throughout my education and writing life, as well as a number of people who have supported and encouraged me.
Firstly, I want to thank the team at Pen & Sword who have helped take this book from idea to product, in particular Jonathan Wright who saw my ideas and agreed to let me write them into books.
Secondly, I want to thank all those who have been involved in helping me when I have been researching this book: country house owners, managers, archivists and more. Thanks go especially to Mr George Drye at Lamport Hall, Victoria Howlett at Lamport Hall, Peter Foden at Belvoir Castle, Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland at Belvoir Castle, Dr Christopher Ridgeway at Castle Howard, Anna Louise Mason at Castle Howard, and the whole team at Northamptonshire Record Office. Thank you for guiding me through procedures and ways to research, for giving me titbits of information which really brought my ladies to life and thank you most of all for allowing me to tell these incredible stories.
Last, but by no means least, I want to thank some very special people close to me, without whom I could not have completed this book:
Catherine Curzon – I don’t have enough space in this book to document all the ways you have helped both practically and mentally. You’ve helped to keep me sane when things have gotten very complicated and stressful, and you’ve helped to guide me through the process of writing my first book. But most of all, it was you who suggested that I get the ideas out of my head and into a book. Thank you.
Mum – My mum has always unfailingly believed in me and my talents at writing. She has also been a constant source of support, friendship, and lots more. To my research assistant and companion, I thank you – the road to this book would have been a lot lonelier without you.
Tom – My husband Tom is incredible and without him being the person that he is I would not have written this book. His constant ambition and passion for travel led us to Switzerland where I was given the opportunity to plunge headfirst into writing and my dream career. Without this time away from full time work, Lady of the House would not be here and so I need to thank him, not only for his constant support and belief in my ability, but for literally helping to create the opportunity for me to write. I love you so much that to put corny words down on paper would not do it justice.
Finally, anyone else who has encouraged, helped or supported me in any way – I have limited space here to thank you but I do remember all the help and appreciate it immensely.
Right, now go read the book!!