ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Having completed this, my first book, I have learned a great deal about the process of book writing, editing, publishing, drafting and re-­drafting. Authors create stories, but it is only once they have the assistance of incredible professionals does a book get created. I would like to thank Richard Curtis, my wonderful and patient agent, who has been with me every step of the way. Without his guidance I would be lost—­he has been fundamental in transforming the book from rough draft to polished manuscript. Richard took a great leap of faith with my piece; he saw past the messiness, typical of a first-­time author, and envisioned what the story could become. He had my full trust from day one and I could not dream of a better mentor. Furthermore, I would like to thank David Pomerico and his entire team at Harper Voyager. David, from his first look at the book, could see what I had ­written and what I wanted to be writing, and helped me put my vision into words. David showed me how to take a step back and reconnect with the essence of the piece, and for this I am forever grateful. I would also like to thank the incredible group of editors I have had the privilege of working with during this time. Betsy Mitchell, Jena Karmali, Joan Burkeitt, and everyone else who leant their time and skill to this piece—­you make writers look good. I would also like to thank my family, without whom I would never have been able to achieve this. Your patience and support—­your late night reading and note making—­well, I couldn’t have done it without you. In particular, I would like to thank my mother, for her unwavering strength, love and guidance. Thank you for giving us your all. I would like to thank my grandparents for their incredible literary achievements and their support of my own writing pursuits. I would like to thank my godfather John, for always supporting me. Finally, I would like to thank Jamie, for telling me that if I knew what I wanted to do with my life, why would I waste my time doing anything else. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all.