Acknowledgements

Gosh, it is always so hard to thank those who have played a part in bringing my latest book to life, as well as those who have supported me through the six months it takes to research and write.

Fellow historical saga authors are a joy to know and such loyal friends. Spread around the world, we meet online to chat, laugh, moan and cry. If you ever need a shoulder to lean on, you can do no better than a saga author.

I always end this part of my book thanking my husband, Michael, as well as Henry, our much-loved dog. Henry, a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, is getting older and starting to slow down and his eyesight is fading fast. Halfway to his twelfth birthday, he is immortalized in my Teashop Girls books as Henio, Anya’s Polish pilot husband. Part of Henry’s registered pedigree name is Henio – my research always stays close to home! I couldn’t write these books without the support and help from my husband of fifty-one years (how did that happen?). Time passes so fast, but memories linger – and make great stories.

Bloggers and reviewers are so important in an author’s life, so thank you one and all.

My agent, Caroline Sheldon, is a constant in my writing life and I thank her again for not only her professional help, but also for going above and beyond to cheer me on. Thank you, Caroline.

My amazingly wonderful publisher, Wayne Brookes; I am lucky to have you supporting my writing and being such a good sport when I ask the impossible when discussing plots, covers, the publishing world and so much more.

The whole Pan Macmillan team are great at what they do, from waving the flag for my books to editing and making corrections. I’d be lost without you all.

I can’t leave this page without mentioning Annie Aldington, who has narrated all my books to date and does such a wonderful job of bringing my girls and my stories to life. Having had the pleasure of seeing her in action, and having a go myself, I’m in awe of what she does. Thank you, Annie.

Last but not least, thank you to my loyal readers as I’d be nothing without your support x