My editor, Rachel Kahan, said “Yes!” to the idea of a wedding story told from the point of view of two mothers instead of the happy couple, recognizing the value of a story about two grown women thrown together through no fault of their own. I’m grateful for her confidence in the concept and for her guidance, enthusiasm, and steady hand during the editing process. I’m honored to be part of the William Morrow family and to work with professionals who love books, heart and soul. A huge thanks to my entire team: Alexandra Bessette, Amanda Hong, Marie Rossi, Hannah Dirgins, Amelia Wood, Jennifer Hart, Michele Cameron, and Hope Ellis.

My agent, Yfat Reiss Gendell, said to me one day, “You know, Lian, most writers complain that they can never get their agent on the phone. Do you ever complain that you can’t get your agent off the phone?” Reader, I do not. I’m grateful for her wise counsel, her power-brainstorming skills, and her ability to drill down on good ideas during our long calls. Thanks to Ashley Napier at YRG Partners for her assistance throughout the entire process, from ideation to publication. You’re both wonderful to work with. Don’t stop calling!

The winner of the Most Impressive Emails Award goes to Tanya Farrell, Emily Afifi, and the rest of the team at Wunderkind PR. Every few weeks I get a lengthy list of all the events, the press, the publicity hits that Wunderkind has made happen. It’s hard to describe how much my list-loving heart adores those emails and working with the Jersey Girls of Wunderkind.

A huge thanks to the women of Birnam Wood in Montecito for their enthusiasm, sharp observations, sense of fun, and fabulous style. I’ve loved spending time with you and dipping into your world. Thanks to Fannie Flagg, Penny Bianchi, Pam Breedlove, Beth Wood, and my personal conduit, Diana Nixon. Thanks to the lovely events team at BWGC, including Tiffany Grummer, for hosting me on multiple occasions.

This book is my sixth novel and my eighth book. In the twenty-four years since my first book was published, I have spoken to thousands of women through hundreds of philanthropic organizations, service clubs, book groups, library events, and charity functions. It’s been such a privilege to have long-term relationships with engaged women across the country who welcome me back time and time again. I value the friendships that have developed over the years. Special thanks to the Library Foundation of Los Angeles and the Friends of the Pasadena Public Library for continued support.

Booksellers are the best. Shout-out to my Southern Cal sisterhood: Vroman’s in Pasadena, Zibby’s Bookshop in Santa Monica, Lido Village Books in Newport Beach, and Pages in Manhattan Beach for their enthusiasm. To the booklovers on social media who have championed my works, big kiss. I’m grateful for the book love.