The Freedom Broker (Thea Paris #1)(103)
Mentors are key for success. We all need people to inspire and guide us, and I’ve had incredible ones. Peter Hildick-Smith from CODEX, thank you for explaining how important the message of covers, titles, and back copy are—and for guiding me through the process. I can’t thank you enough for your patience, time, and energy. Jaime Levine, your editorial advice was incredible, and I treasure our friendship. Thank you to Karin Slaughter for seeing something in my scribblings to recommend me to our phenomenal team at the Victoria Sanders Agency. David Morrell tapped into the motivation behind my book and encouraged me to mine deep into my characters. Rambo’s daddy is one of the most perceptive people I’ve ever met. He also shared his sage advice about the investment of time—if you’re going to spend a year (or more!) on a book, you should learn, grow, and become a wiser person from the experience. Lee Child taught me that writing is like music, and you have to get the rhythm right if you want the reader to dance with you—or Jack Reacher. And Peter James, thanks for being so encouraging, supportive, and kind—you are one of the nicest people I’ll ever have the joy of knowing.
Christopher Schneider from 5.11 Tactical, who calls himself my number one fan, you have been supportive beyond belief. Thea will always wear the best gear in the business, and if you’re ever kidnapped by a bevy of Amazon women, she will come rescue you—that is, if you want her to.
Steve Berry, the Great One, you have given me the best advice on writing, the publishing business, marketing, pretty much everything—and you also recommended me for the job at ITW. I’m not sure there are enough Curly Wurlys in the world to thank you for your kindness.
Victoria Sanders, the day you signed me was one of the best moments of my life, and your incredible team—including Bernadette Baker-Vaughn, Chris Kepner, and Jessica Spivey—treat me like family. You all believed in The Freedom Broker from day one, and I appreciate your relentless enthusiasm, wise guidance, and incredible hospitality during my visit to VSA headquarters. And thank you to The Gotham Group for working diligently on the film/TV opportunities.
To my dream publishers at Quercus, Headline, and Hachette Canada. Nathaniel Marunas, your sense of humor and extensive knowledge in so many unique arenas are greatly appreciated. Elyse Gregov, it has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you, and you are so gracious. Vicki Mellor, thanks for being the first to show interest in Thea and her gang—forever grateful. Amelia Ayrelan Iuvino, Amanda Harkness, Alex Knight, Jennifer Doyle, Kitty Stogdon, Mari Evans, Jason Bartholomew, Sara Adams, Millie Seaward, Jo Liddiard, Martha Bucci, Donna Nopper: I’m honored to be working with you all.
And RJH, you never stopped believing. Thank you.