Acknowledgments

Before I wrote my first novel I thought authors were solitary beings, chained to their old-fashioned typewriters for months on end. Now of course I know that any book worth reading is a collaborative affair and I for one am grateful for that.

First shout goes to Peter, Rosie and Jessica Buckman who continue to champion me and my work.

Huge thanks are also due to everyone at Avon, particularly Kesh, who goes that extra mile for me.

My fellow HUG members, David and Mike, have once again offered red wine and positive criticism for which I continue to be grateful.

A big virtual wave goes to the community of writers on www.writewords.org.uk. Wit, wisdom and general blather are always only a keyboard away.

And I know she’s going to be mortified but I’d like to single out my mate, Sarah S, for keeping me sane with our morning walks. My thighs salute you.

Then there’s the family. The noisy messy lot of us. We don’t lead a normal life, but then again, who wants to?