I’d like to say a massive thank you to the people who helped make Louie a showstopper. To my agent Jodie Hodges, who read early drafts, said ‘MORE DRAMA!’ then took me for afternoon tea. To all at Faber who’ve supported me as a writer, but in particular to my editor Rebecca Lee, whose wisdom and kind words have been invaluable. And to James Rose and Anna Swan for their copy-editing skills. Also to my publicist Hannah Love, who persuaded me to leave Somerset now and again. And to Julian de Narvaez for designing such a beautiful cover and using my dog Bagel as the model.
Thank you to the bloggers, reviewers, booksellers and librarians, who allow books to find readers. And to my writing pals on Twitter and at Author Allsorts who’ve offered encouragement and advice.
None of this would be possible without the love and support of friends and family. To my besties Becky Howat and Karl Watson – just because. To the Carrolls for great dinners and bubbly. Also to my parents for putting up with the moaning – sorry about that. It can’t be easy living with a writer, which is why my biggest thanks of all goes to Owen, who deserves a medal.