With this project, I met so many new and wonderful friends. For that alone, I will always be glad I took the leap into self-publishing.
The first of these remarkable individuals is Sheila O’Connor, professor and reader extraordinaire. I will eternally be grateful for your insights. I’m not a person who believes in fate, but I look back at the moment I got the acceptance from Hamline University as the first step on a path that led me to your class. You’ve helped me grow as a writer and, despite those few months when I questioned my worth as one, you never doubted. That made all the difference.
Next, I must thank Emma Bull. I was so fortunate to end up with a mentor perfect for Fortuna Sworn. Your wisdom helped shaped this book to what it’s become. Thank you for the time and thought you put into this new adventure of mine.
My gratitude also goes to Jessi Elliott. I can now look at all the hours I’ve spent on Instagram as an investment, as they are what led us to meet. Your enthusiasm for this story drove me to the finish line. I also might’ve lost my sanity were it not for those occasions when I texted you, needing another perspective, and you didn’t hesitate to offer one. Here’s to many more nights FaceTiming and, like, actually writing.
Indebtedness also to Kristen Williams, who was another friend to answer every text I sent asking her opinion, whether it was on marketing, or the cover, or my own doubts. (If you’re an author who’s looking for someone to host your Instagram cover reveal or book tour, Storygram Tours is the way to go. Seriously.)
Thank you to my agent, Beth Miller, for being so supportive when I told her that not only did I want to completely change genres, but I also wanted to self-publish. Then you selflessly offered to be a beta reader. I first queried you eight years ago and it’s now difficult to imagine working with anyone else. It’s been such a wild ride. I can’t wait to see what else awaits us.
Adoration and appreciation to Gwenn Danae and Jesse Green, who made this book truly beautiful. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the series will look like.
And finally, my love and appreciation to Jordan, who inspires me in so many ways. Who makes me coffee, pours my wine, and offers daily encouragement. I know it’s not exactly feminist to say I don’t know how I wrote books without you … but seriously. I don’t know how I wrote books without you. Love you more than cheese, boo.