Tami Estes. I can’t sum up how fantastic I think you are, and am grateful for all the suggestions you gave me on this book. Even though a “little bird” told me you were nervous to be honest with me, I am so thankful you were.
M.E. Carter: friend, writer partner, and pain in my ass. Not a day goes by that we don’t bicker, banter—and give each other valuable insight. Sometimes you make me laugh, sometimes you make my face turn bright red (interpret that however you want), and sometimes… I wonder how the hell I ever existed without you. Someone was watching out for us the day our destinies collided.
Speaking of Destines Colliding… Shirl Rickman. Sweet. Funny. Enthusiastic. You’re such a fantastic human being. Meeting you in person was one of the most exciting days I’ve experienced as a writer, and I want to forever be your road tripping partner. Road tripping, yes. Hiking, no. I (heart) you so much.
Laurie Darter and Dawn Chiletz—without your input, this book wouldn’t have a plot. Honestly. I truly needed that brainstorming session at the Cheesecake Factory to pull me out of my slump. Not to mention, you’re both so funny, caring, and… awesome.
Murphy Hopkins… what can I say about you? You are one kick-ass young woman. Creative. Witty. Passionate. Remarkable… these words feel a paltry description to sum up your character. Good days or bad, there is nothing you cannot do. Believe me when I say this: you inspire. We admire you.
Oh. And thanks for editing this book despite the fact that I forgot to book you.
Julie Titus (JT Formatting). Ugh, Julie, whom I’ve been dying to have format my books, and who has been incredibly patient with my pushing back dates—not once, but twice. Patience is your virtue, and I thank you. May we have a long, happy relationship…
To my dear friend Jen Cashin, who delights me with every selfie. Nothing makes me laugh more than pictures of you reading my books. It truly flatters me that you are so proud and supportive of me. I love you so much.
Vanessa Taylir for putting me in your library. That was the coolest day, and one of my proudest moments. You probably don’t realize that, but… I can’t tell you how much I appreciated your sending me the photo of my books in my hometown library. Best. Day. Ever. Love you.
Brenda. Katy. Every single day I think of you.
My sister Maddie, who needs a love story of her own. Now, if only she’d start listening to my advice…
Last, but not least – Christine Kuttnauer. You are the rock to my paper. One of the first people I speak to in the morning, and the last person I message at night—when we should both be sleeping, but are reading. Intelligent, funny. I love everything about you, including your flaws. You’re you. And this book wouldn’t have been written without you.
To my readers…. There is nothing—nothing—that fills me with more joy that seeing your positive responses to something I’ve written; I can’t even describe what it feels like. Or what it feels like when someone simply writes on my Facebook wall. The level of happy is immeasurable.
I cannot wait to grow old with you all. Wait. That came out wrong… but you know what I meant.
I love you all.