ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
It might be my name on the cover of this book, but no novel is produced solely by the author. There’s a team of awesome people behind that title. So I’d like to thank my agent, Liza Dawson, and her wonderful staff, especially Kayla Lightner and Havis Dawson, who help me in big and small ways in all of my writing pursuits. I’d also like to thank my gracious, talented editor, Jodi Warshaw, and the team at Lake Union, who work so hard behind the scenes to put a quality novel in front of readers. (Special thanks to Gabriella Dumpit, who does such a great job of keeping the channels of communication wide open. And to Laura Barrett for being a production editor extraordinaire.) Finally, a special thank-you goes out to my developmental editor, Blake Leyers, who made writing this novel a less solitary pursuit than novel writing normally is and encouraged me every step of the way. Thank you for understanding and believing in this story.
My inspiration for this story came from several directions. Most notable: The song “Torchlight” by Missy Higgins was one I could always play to get in touch with what Casey was going through. The book Missoula by Jon Krakauer directly informed Casey’s reaction to her assault. The song “Woman in Chains” by Tears for Fears (featuring Oleta Adams) is the song I repeatedly played anytime I needed inspiration. And, though it sounds odd to say, I’d also like to thank the real suburban madams in the US, whose situations and motives informed Norah’s character. I’d also like to thank Fred Silva from the Lucas Lepri Brazilian Jiu Jitsu studio, who patiently helped me block the fight scene even though I was a stranger who walked in off the street claiming to be a novelist. He helpfully answered my questions, though it was apparent that he was not convinced I wasn’t crazy. Fred, I’m not sure this is proof that I’m not crazy, but it is proof I am a novelist.
Ariel Lawhon, another book means another moment to publicly thank you for the private kvetching and meltdowns you’ve graciously listened to, not to mention the abundance of shared laughter, albeit sometimes inappropriate. We’ve done this journey together every step of the way, and I treasure the gift of your friendship.
I’d also like to thank my wonderful neighbors and friends for their tireless encouragement and willingness to show up for me and my family in countless ways (see my other books to find the list of their names—they know who they are). And to the many readers, book clubs, and bookstagrammers who’ve read and shared my work—a mention or encouraging review never fails to come along at the “just right” moment and is immensely appreciated.
Most of all, I’d like to thank my family. To my mom: You’re the model of intelligence and strength that I continue to aspire to. Any of the spunk and wit that is in my characters comes from who you’ve been to me all my life. To my husband, Curt: Your patience, love, and encouragement throughout this process was just what I needed, and your belief in me never fails. Thanks for those long walks and talks on the beach. And to my children, Jack, Ashleigh, Matt, Rebekah, Brad, and Annaliese: Being able to write novels is a gift, but the greatest thing I’ve ever created is you guys. I pray you’ll all go out and become every bit of who you were meant to be.
And, speaking of prayer: Jesus, You are truly the friend who sticks closer than a brother. I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have You to talk to. Thank You for always listening, and for the big and little amazing things You bring my way. Apart from You, I can do nothing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Photo © 2016 Portrait Innovations
Marybeth Mayhew Whalen is the author of Only Ever Her, When We Were Worthy, The Things We Wish Were True, and five previous novels. She enjoys speaking to women’s groups around the US, sharing how the power of story informs our own lives. Marybeth and her husband, Curt, have been married for a very long time and are the parents of six children, ranging from elementary age to young adult. Marybeth divides her time between the shores of Sunset Beach and the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina. She is always at work on her next novel. You can find her at www.marybethwhalen.com.
