One of the many fascinating features of writing a novel is the research and where it takes you. Another amazing aspect is how willing people are to help you on that journey. For this, the first in a series of books set in the Dales, I had recourse to a wide variety of experts. All of them gave their time willingly and their advice freely. Hopefully I have used both wisely – if not, the blame lies entirely with me! Therefore, I owe the following a strong cup of Dales tea and a fat rascal:
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Dr Matthew Townend for answering my questions about Dales place names and for sharing his passion for Viking Yorkshire; Ruth and Gary Cobb of Mosside Kennels, experts in all things Weimaraner who happily welcomed me in and introduced me to their beautiful ‘girls’; David Carpenter and Curtis Parkyn, both involved in the world of the police and both generous with their time and knowledge; Elizabeth and Dave Booth who answered my naive questions about farming life and fed me wonderful cake too!; Isabel Price, my neighbour and friend, who encourages my interest in sheep and is always happy to share her experiences of life in the Dales; Dorothy and Alan Hemsworth, for introducing me to some fine Yorkshire writing and for the glimpse of a sun-burnished crag that would inspire the name of Bruncliffe; Jane Marshall and Julia Murfin for odd questions about odd things like ginnels and fell running…; my ever-supportive family who have proven themselves to be stellar first-readers and superb sounding boards; the brilliant team at Pan Macmillan, especially Catherine for her enthusiasm for the Dales Detective and, most of all, Tolpuddle!; my agent, Oli, who threw an idea at me on a wet October day – yes, Oli, this is all your fault; and finally, to Mark and our much-missed Tomate, who sat by my side as I wrote this one – thanks both of you for keeping me balanced. Even if it doesn’t always seem that way.