My sincere thanks to editor Arwen Summers, who has again done wonders with her structural advice and is such a delight to bounce ideas around with. To my publisher Belinda Byrne whose encouragement and enthusiasm for my writing and stories helps keep me buoyant. Thanks to all the staff at Penguin who have helped make this book a success, especially Alex Ross for designing such a gorgeous cover. Also many thanks to super agent Clare Forster of Curtis Brown, whose advice and assistance are invaluable.
I’d also like to give special thanks to my good friends Carol and Leon Monaghan for some country fun and respite, and to Leon’s brother David whose Fiat tractor is featured in the story and who provided much appreciated machinery advice.
Huge and very warm thanks to my amazingly patient and understanding writing buddies Rachael Johns and Suzi Love.
Most of all, to Jim. My rock.