The Hiding Place(93)

Blimey—a second book. Not so long ago, I had pretty much given up hope of ever having a book published and now here we are: Book 2. I almost feel like a proper author. And there are a lot of people I’d like to thank for that: My amazing agent, Madeleine Milburn, without whom I’d still be a dog walker in Nottingham.

My brilliant editor, Max, who quite simply “gets” my writing, and also gets how to make it that much better. Similarly, Nate—a great editor and one of the nicest people on earth.

Everyone at Michael Joseph and Crown. Plus, all my international publishers.

My partner, Neil. You already got the dedication at the front, dear.

My little girl, Betty, for giving me perspective on what’s really important in life (glitter).

My mum and dad. Literally wouldn’t be here without you.

The Ladykillers, for their friendship, support and the boozy lunches. Mainly the boozy lunches.

My English teacher, Mr. Webster, who once told me, “If you don’t become prime minister or a bestselling author, I’ll be very disappointed.”

Stephen King. Constant inspiration.

My oldest friends—Kirsty, Suzanne, Julie and Clare—who know how much I’ve wanted to be a writer ever since we all went to comprehensive school together, in a mining village in Nottinghamshire.

And of course, YOU, for reading this book. If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t get to keep doing this stuff. Thank you. You’re bloody marvelous!