Like Alex, when I was a teenager I spent a lot of time wandering around London while my dad was working, so it’s been absolutely lovely to write a whole book about one of my favourite places in the world. Huge thanks to everyone in the hardworking Avon gang for being so welcoming, and making this book such a joy to write – particular thanks to my brilliant editor, Rachel Faulkner-Willcocks. Thanks also to Amanda Preston, brilliant agent, moral support and cheerleader. You deserve a medal.
To the Millionaires, Hooters, and the Book Camp gang – thank you all for keeping me (relatively) sane, making me laugh with publishing gossip, and for celebrating with me every time I think I’m finished a book, and then again when it’s finally done. You are all the best.
To my gorgeous children Verity, Rosie, Archie, Jude and Rory – I love you enormously, and I’m so proud of the kind, lovely, thoughtful people you are. Sorry we’ve had pasta for dinner eight million times this year, but on the plus side, at least it’s not risotto. Also please tidy your rooms. (If I put it down on paper, maybe you’ll listen.)
To my family – Ross, Zoe, Mae, Mum, Chris – and my dear friends – Jax, Elise and Rhiannon – who put up with my vagueness, disorganisation and promises to call back when I’ve finished one more chapter, I love you all.
To my dogs, Mabel, Martha and Tilly – love and ear rubs. (But do please stop eating the furniture/chasing the guinea pigs/barking when I’m trying to edit.)
Last of all and most importantly – to you, reading this. Thank you for picking up this story. I hope you enjoyed reading Alex and Jess’s story as much as I enjoyed writing it!