First of all, I’d like to thank my publisher Jo Mackay. She had the foresight to see the possibilities of my manuscript right from the beginning, and her enthusiasm never wavered. I’m very lucky to have such a warm and understanding publisher, and such a supportive and enthusiastic team at HQ as the super-efficient Annabel Blay, Natika Palka and Adam van Rooijen.
It’s been a joy to work with my editor Linda Funnell. Throughout the editing process, I’ve been awed by her intelligence, attention to detail, patience and impeccable literary taste. Her insightful suggestions have eliminated repetitions and strengthened the plot. Any mistakes are my own.
The day Selwa Anthony became my literary agent was a very lucky day for me. Selwa has always been indefatigable in her efforts on my behalf, and she has championed this novel from the very first moment. Her encouragement and belief in me throughout the years have been very nurturing.
My friend Dasia Gutman has been a valuable sounding board for the anxieties and frustrations I’ve had while writing, and I appreciate her wise counsel. Every book brings its own set of challenges, and it never gets any easier, but pointing out that I’ve moaned about exactly the same issues while writing my previous books has been revealing and helpful.
Thank you to my friends Susi B, Susie W, Peter, Gabby and Egon, for helping me with Hungarian names and accents.
The encouragement and interest shown by my children Justine and Jonathan, my daughter-in-law Adrianne, and my granddaughters Sarah, Maya and Allie, have been heartwarming. Allie, you told me you couldn’t wait to read this novel, so finally here it is! Thanks also to Jonathan for his patience in taking the head shot.
I appreciate the work of Kate James, who did such a great job proofreading this manuscript.
Lastly, my deepest gratitude to Bert who shares my life. I handed you each chapter as soon as I’d written it, and I couldn’t wait for your reaction. You stopped whatever you were doing to read them, and your comments were always thoughtful, positive and illuminating. Living with an author who is obsessed with her novel is an excellent test of a relationship, but thanks to your understanding, love and support we have passed with flying colours!