Red (21 page)

Many thanks to my editor, Katherine Harrison. We've grown together over these past three books, and you've become an integral part of my creative process. Thanks to my agent, Michelle Andelman, always the steady voice of reason. Your enthusiasm, expertise, and support have been a lifeline in my early career.

Thanks to Janet Wygal, Artie Bennett, and the entire editorial team. You guys are like the friends that let me know when I have spinach in my teeth. I'm a mess without you!

To my trusty friends and beta readers—Krista Van Dolzer, Peggy Eddleman, Jenilyn Tolley, and Janet Leftley—thank you for reading rough versions that I'm sure were less than thrilling, but you've all given me such incredible insight and encouragement.

To my kids—Whitney, Ty, and Topher—I love how much pride you take in your mom's work. May it always be so, and may you all find such satisfaction in your own life adventures.

And to Scott, love of my life, best friend in the world, each book I write has a bit of you sprinkled throughout. They're usually the best parts.