The Girl of Fire and Thorns

Acknowledgments

A novel, especially a first novel, is an enormous undertaking of faith and frustration, of learning and hope, of despair and triumph. And I could not have navigated the craziness if not for the following fabulous folks.

Thank you to:

My amazing editor, Martha Mihalick, for both falling in love with the story and being relentless about making it better. (Are you sure we don’t have time for another revision round?)

The Greenwillow team, for their warmth, their enthusiasm, for my beautiful book jacket, and for so many little things.

My super-agent, Holly Root, for getting my work on a fundamental level, for endless patience and humor, and for taking care of all the details.

My friends at the Online Writing Workshop for Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror; including but not limited to Jenni Smith-Gaynor (yes, you were first), Ian, Heidi, Deb, Marsha, Amber, Aaron, Brad, Jo, and Heather.

Elizabeth Bear, for taking a newbie under her wing and giving some formative advice for no other reason than to pay it forward. I promise to continue the tradition.

Amanda Downum, Leah Bobet, Vernieda Vergara, and Chance Morrison, who read early drafts and gave much needed encouragement.

Jodi Meadows, Jaime Lee Moyer, and Jill Myles, early-draft victims whose friendship has meant the world to me.

Sarah Prineas, for responding helpfully to a panicked e-mail, for understanding my need for ruthless practicality, and for being an honest and thoughtful reader and friend.

Holly McDowell, for friendship and advice, but mostly for wonderful times.

Rebekah Piedad, my sister and best friend, for being the perfect cheerleader.

And, most importantly, my husband, C. C. Finlay, the best man I know, for editing genius that makes my writing better, for dreaming right along with me and never complaining when the dishes aren’t done. I like you a lot. Let’s get married.