There may be nothing harder for a writer than writing into the void: it’s a lonely business at the best of times, but when no one gives a damn, it’s even lonelier. Conversely, there is nothing more joyous than writing a novel amid the cheering sound of encouragement and support. And when it comes to support for this book, my cup runneth over.
I am evermore indebted to my editors Kate Harvey at Picador and Judy Clain at Little, Brown, who washed this novel with all the taste and style and brilliance in their arsenal. Whatever its flaws are lie with me; but when it comes to any of the high, gleaming moments, so much credit goes to those two talented women. Thank you, thank you—I can’t say it enough.
My agent, Caroline Wood, a woman of truly startling honesty, has been an amazing shield and an incredible companion on the path we’ve traveled together over the last four years. Thank God I found you.
So much gratitude goes to my U.K. publicist—and my friend—Emma Bravo, who wages one hell of a campaign. Long may our capers continue. And also to my U.S. publicist, the incomparable Sabrina Callahan, whose humor and tirelessness have made tromping around the United States a real joy.
My thanks to the whole team at Picador, who’ve become a bit like my very own pirate gang, and in particular to my lovely publisher, Paul Baggaley, for all his gracious support of this novel.
To the folks at Little, Brown—I send my heartiest thanks and devotion from this side of the pond for the hard work, eagle-eyed attentiveness, and astounding support.
Also deserving of so much love and acclamation are the long-suffering writers in my workshop group: Emma Chapman, Tom Feltham, Liz Gifford, Carolina Gonzalez-Carvajal, and Kat Gordon.
Finally, to my family: Thank you. I love you.