Chapters (69)

No one understands the strange writing life like other authors, and I have some of the best author friends in my corner. Even if that corner is at a social distance these days. Thanks and love to John Marrs, Louise Beech, Marian Keyes, Anna McPartlin, CL Taylor, Liz Nugent and Brian McGilloway.

Special mention to my writing work wife, Fionnuala Kearney, who has picked me up and dusted me off more than anyone should have to. Fionnu, I am grateful for your friendship every day.

To my family and friends; Mum, Dad, Lisa, Peter and Emma, assorted partners and the best nieces and nephews in the world, Abby, Ethan, Darcy, Arya, Thomas and Finn, not to mention the hairier family members Henry and Ben. Thank you for being you.

Thanks to Julie-Ann & Marie-Louise for Derry Girls-themed Afternoon Teas.

And to my lifelong friends, forged in the newsroom – Erin, Cat & Bernie. This seems as appropriate a place as any to say that Ingrid Devlin is not based on any living person and the experiences in the Chronicle newsroom are not based on any lived experience!

To my family – Neil, and my two amazing children (even if they don’t think I’m cool anymore). Thank you. I love you. To the two cats, Alfie and Purry – thanks for not vomiting in my shoes. And to Izzy, my beautiful pupper, thank you for sitting at my feet during long writing sessions.

Thanks also to all the media, book bloggers and book lovers who spread the word about my books. And of course, to you, reading this. I would be nothing without your support.

To the lady who attended my book signing in Eason, Foyleside and asked if I could name a character after her – Sue in the police press office is after you.

Finally, this book is dedicated to my agent Ger Nichol, who has been by my side for fourteen years and fifteen books. I cannot thank you enough, Ger.