The Girl Who Had No Fear sprang from three sources. The first was my bez, Louise Owen, who insisted there was a story in city canals that mysteriously claim lives. You nagged the fuck out of me, Weez, but you got there in the end! Well done. The second was my friend, Max Barber, who told me all about the risks men take at gay chem-sex parties in pursuit of hedonistic fun. I hope I’ve done your observations justice, Max. The third was my ex-husband, Christian, with whom I’ve shared wonderful trips to Mexico and continue to share a great love of all things Central American. Thanks to those three friends for their inspiration.
As ever, the people who make my writing possible are as follows:
My children, Natalie and Adam, who make me want to be a better woman and write better stories, which, one day, they will be old enough to read.
My wonderful partner in crime, Caspian Dennis. Where I’m the bullshit, he’s the business, but more importantly, he regularly fixes my head when the going gets tough with words of wisdom, huge laughs and medicinal gin. If it weren’t for him, you wouldn’t be reading any of this. Thanks also to the other folks at Abner Stein – world’s best literary agency, especially Sandy, Ben, Laura and Felicity.
My editor Phoebe and the outstanding team at Avon, HarperCollins – Oli, Helen, Helena, Natashas H & W, Hannah, Ellie and Louis. It is their forward-thinking and excellent taste that has brought you a series starring a character quite as kickass, unapologetic and savvy as George McKenzie. I salute them.
The amazing book-bloggers, who are so giving of their time in reading and reviewing my novels.
The online book clubs, whose members are such passionate and discerning readers.
Those who have stuck with the George McKenzie series from the beginning and those who are just discovering it for the first time with The Girl Who Had No Fear. You are definitely the best readers ever, and I owe you a huge debt of gratitude. I promise to write bigger, better, faster and importantly, more George stories just for you!
The cockblankets, who improve life immeasurably. And no, these aren’t unusual pets or erotic toys.
My writing buddies, Wendy Storer and Steph Williams, for ongoing support and tremendousness.