The best part of writing a book is often the research, so I’d like to thank the renowned Cornish artist and former gallery owner, Heather Howe, who was a brilliant source of information on the art world and running a gallery. One of her gorgeous paintings of Cornwall now hangs on my wall. You can find her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/heatherhoweart/
A big hand also goes to my author friend, Chris Stovell, who is an intrepid and keen (sometimes!) sailor and helped me with the yachty parts of the book.
Cat owners, Sue Robinson, Lindy Young and Janice Hume, had loads of anecdotes (especially the trainer incident, which happened while I was writing and instantly went in the book!). With my editor, Rachel Faulkner-Willcocks, having recently acquired two kittens, I was very lucky to have first-hand feline knowledge on tap.
I visited lots of galleries and chatted to many talented artist makers – none of whom were the slightest bit divaish. They included jewellery maker, Hayley White; Beryl Evans of Lichfield Society of Artists; and professional artist, Kara Strachan, of the Art Loft, Curborough Countryside Centre. Textile artist, Philippa Day, was a big help and I must mention her canine companion, Jed, who has sadly now gone to doggy heaven. Hilary Ely has been my initial inspiration for this whole Scilly series and I couldn’t manage without the support of Nell Dixon and Liz Hanbury, ‘The Coffee Crew’ and my bookseller ‘bestie’ Janice Hume.
I have (and it’s now official) the best agent in the romantic fiction world: Broo Doherty of DHH Literary Agency. As for Team Avon – Rachel-Faulkner Willcocks, Katie Loughnane, Sabah Khan, Elke Desanghere and copy editor, Jade Craddock – after thirteen years in the business, I can tell you they’re the absolute cream of the crop.
Last but most of all, I want to thank my family for their love and support through thick and thin – John, Charlotte, James, Mum and Dad and Charles. ILY xx