I would like to thank the characters behind this novel, for so many different things, past and present, now and then. For shaping and influencing this story. For supporting me in various ways leading up to this moment. For the hope, encouragement and humour. For being here when you were there. For taking this novel out into the world and accompanying me as I go with it.
My deepest gratitude to Gaia Banks, Elena Lappin, Adam Freudenheim, the team at Pushkin Press and Katherine Stroud, Mum and Dad, Chris, Doris Elliott (1910–1980), Noreen, Nadine, Siân, Esther, Henry (sadly you cannot read, but for sitting beside me while I wrote every word, and scampering ahead of me while I solved every puzzle, I will thank you in walks and fishy flapjacks) and Jacquie (for all your insight and generosity, I thank you).