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Thank you to Krishan Coupland, whose encouraging comments on a very early draft of this novel inspired me to keep going.
I’ve been lucky in that I’ve been surrounded by those who believed in me from a very young age. My parents and step-parents – thank you for investing countless hours into my love of reading and writing.
My Mum, Jo. You inspire me every day with your strength and resilience. I’m a feminist because of you. Thank you so much for supporting me every step of the way. And, of course, for reading (and discussing) this novel so many times. I don’t know what I’d do without you.
Brian, I couldn’t imagine a more supportive stepfather. Thanks for all your help and encouragement over the years.
My Dad, Nigel – thanks for instilling me with your strong sense of justice, and with your determination. And of course, thank you for reading this book!
Otilie, my stepmother (and another early reader!). Thank you for all your support, and for introducing me to some of the novels that inspired this one – including, particularly, The Blind Assassin and Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood.
My sister, Katie – you have always been my rock. Thank you for getting me through the bad times. The next one’s for you.
My brothers. Oliver – thank you so much for reading this novel. I can’t wait to see what you do with your own love of writing. Adrian – thank you for your faith in me, and for always making me laugh.
My grandparents, Barry and Carmel. Your book-filled home is my sanctuary. Grandpa, thank you for your sharp wit (and your red pen). I’m thrilled to be following in your footsteps. Nana, thank you for your brilliant stories and your constant encouragement.
My grandparents, John and Barbara – I wish you could have read this book.
My step-grandmother, Em?ke. You’ve always inspired me so much. Thank you.
To Mike and Mary – I can’t ever thank you enough for welcoming me into your beautiful home in Cumbria, where the first draft of this novel was written. Thank you for sheltering me during a pandemic and comforting me when I was so far from my family in Australia.
Ed – the first reader of this novel. I couldn’t have written a single word without your love and support.
Clare, Michael and Alex – thank you for the runs together, the wine and the laughter.
My wonderful friends. I feel fortunate to know you all. But I must make special mention of Gemma Doswell and Ally Wilkes, brilliant writers themselves. Thank you for your incredible feedback – and your patience during a few panic attacks!
There was a time in my life when the writing of this novel – or indeed of any novel – seemed very much in doubt. I owe huge thanks to the medical staff who treated me after my stroke in 2017. To the doctors and nurses of the Moorfields Eye Hospital, Royal London Hospital, University College Hospital London and St Bart’s Hospital: you have my endless admiration and gratitude.
About the Author
Emilia Hart is a British-Australian writer. She was born in Sydney and studied English Literature and Law at the University of New South Wales before working as a lawyer in Sydney and London. Emilia is a graduate of Curtis Brown Creative’s Three Month Online Novel Writing Course and was Highly Commended in the 2021 Caledonia Novel Award. Her short fiction has been published in Australia and the UK. She lives in London.