The Montrose murders in the book are a reference to the Manuel murders, which occurred at a similar time, with a bit of artistic licence. I interviewed my mother extensively about her time at the homes. If I have got anything wrong, I apologise.
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There are many people to thank for helping this book to publication. First is the High Priestess of Viper – Miranda Jewess, without whose help, insight, vision and this would not have got here. I would also like to thank Therese and the rest of the gang at Viper and Profile, who are utterly wonderful.
Huge thanks to Caroline Dawnay and Kat Aitken at United Agents for helping find a home for this story and for being so brilliant over the years: you are amazing.
Thank you Sheila McIlwraith, who helped hugely with an early iteration of this book, and Charlotte van Wijk, who was the first person to make me think maybe I had a story.
Thank you to the prereaders who saw an early version of this story: Simon Wort, Karen Yems, Vickie Ridley & Nik Upton – I really appreciate the help you gave.
Huge love to all the gang at Lucky’s and the Saints for listening to me bore on about this book for too long.
Thank you to my mum, brother and sister, plus extended family and now new extended family. I hope to meet you all soon
Finally to Catherine, Felix, Alice and Mr B, thank you for your help, patience and for being the reason for everything. I am a lucky man to have you in my world and you make it all worthwhile.