When I sit down to write a new story, it’s just me and my characters. But by the time that story reaches readers so many hands have touched it. My thanks to all who had a role in bringing this book and this entire series to life.
To my editor, Leah Hultenschmidt, and editorial assistant, Sabrina Flemming. You’ve been so amazing throughout this project. I appreciate your hard work so very much.
To my fellow Disney lovers and the best PR team an author can ask for, Estelle Hallick and Dana Cuadrado. You are both magic. There are no words to express how grateful I am to work with you both.
To Mari C. Okuda and the rest of the production crew at Hachette. My sincere thanks for all the work you put in behind the scenes.
To my agent, Evan Marshall. Sending that single-page query to you in 2005 was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. Thank you for always being on my side.
To Kwana Jackson and Priscilla Oliveras. I cherish your friendship. Thanks for the accountability texts and encouraging words.
To my family. Your belief in me is the reason I get to do this job. I love you all more than anything. We’ll get through this.
To Samiah, Taylor, and London. You may be fictional characters, but you’ve felt so very real to me over these past four years. You three changed my life. Thank you for letting me tell your stories.
Lastly, my heartfelt thanks to all the health-care providers who have sacrificed so much to keep us safe during these scary times. Throughout this series, London has jokingly bragged about the fact that she saves lives, but there is no joking when it comes to all the doctors, nurses, techs, paramedics, EMTs, and others who have given so much of themselves. You save lives every day and we will forever be in your debt.