I think I start most of my acknowledgements by saying that although my name is on the front of this book, writing a novel is a team effort. I say that because it’s true. Huge thanks have to go to the incredible all-female team at Embla whose vision, daring, passion and belief in this book made it an absolute pleasure to write. I am indebted to my incredible editor Hannah Smith who has wit, grace, foresight and an uncanny ability to help me sort the wheat from the chaff – thank you so much, Hannah, it’s a pleasure to go on this adventure with you at the helm.
Likewise, I would be lost without my uber talented agent, Kate Burke from Blake Friedmann who knows exactly what I need even before I do. How she does it I have no idea, but I know I’m very glad that she does.
Historical novels like this one rely heavily on a good bit of poetic licence to make the story flow. However, there are several kind souls who have helped ensure I captured the historical essence of the Palais. The brilliant bods at the Fulham and Hammersmith Historical Society who helped me unearth the treasures in the archives. And all the lovely souls from the Hammersmith Palais – Old Skool and You’re Probably from W12 if … , social media groups. I am so grateful to you all for answering my questions, sharing tall tales of your own Palais experiences and introducing me to real-life characters past and present who helped transform the nugget of an idea I had into this wonderful story. Any mistakes within this book are entirely my own.
As this book centres heavily around dancing I must also extend a huge, and I do mean huge, thank you to my mother, Maureen Ford. In her teens Maureen was a championship ballroom dancer in the North West, scooping up trophies and awards as regularly as she now shouts at my dad to stop eating family-sized chocolate bars. Knowing very little about the world of ballroom dancing I relied heavily on Mum’s expertise and it was such a pleasure to see her face light up as she explained tempos, reverse turns and the difference between Old Tyme and Sequence Dancing. Thanks so much, Mum, for your patience and help – again any mistakes made are entirely down to the fact I have two left feet.
Although you’re creating a whole world of your own when you write a novel, it can be a lonely business sitting at your computer all day. That’s why I’m so grateful to all of you wonderful readers who get in touch with your funny messages, questions and your own historical memories. It really is a true pleasure to hear from you all and every one of you lights up my day.
Speaking of lighting up the days, I’m beyond grateful to my husband Chris not to mention my mum and dad who are always on hand for lively video calls. My fantastic friends too are truly incredible as they routinely listen to me witter on about writing. I know I’m dull – it’s why I ply you with wine. However, I would be lost without my author pals who truly mean so much. The girls from the Strictly Saga group – thanks for your support and patience, you really do make this business a little less lonely. And last but certainly not least, my fantastic writing buddies who are there for all the highs and lows – Dani Atkins, Kate Thompson, Faith Bleasdale and Sasha Wagstaff, thanks to you all for just being so flipping lovely.