Writing a book during a major life move (relocating from San Francisco to Eureka in 2020) and then a pandemic was one of the most challenging things I’ve done in my life. I was pretty much burned out creatively, emotionally, and physically. Luckily, I had the support of my husband and sometimes writing partner, who spent many hours helping me brainstorm and put up with a lot of stress on my part. He also pitched in on a couple of scenes that needed a knowledge of linguistics that I do not have, and generously lent me his creativity when I needed it.
I also had the support of my incredibly patient and understanding Dark Editorial Overlord, Steve, who got me deadline extensions, worked with me through my burnout, and always made me feel that yes, I could finish this book.
As always, thank you to the rest of the marvelous Titan crew, and to my agent Jill Marsal.
Also, thank you to my sister Lisa, who also put up with me in full-on stress mode when I was writing Hollywood Monsters. I’m not very fun when I’m in full-on stress mode.
Thank you, Jonathan, for being an awesome and understanding boss who always encourages me to put my writing first, even when you have work you need me to do.
And a huge thank you to all my readers, who have been so patient waiting for this book to finally come out!