For as long as I’ve dreamt of publishing my book, I’ve also imagined writing the acknowledgments—my chance to thank everyone who has helped me and this story get to this point. I’ve lost track of how many revisions this book has had and how many years it took me to complete. But my journey toward publication and becoming a serious writer started with people who believed in my story and were willing to take a chance on me.

Neil Couturier, a beautiful, talented writer himself, has believed in this story since its inception. As my go-to critique partner, he’s read almost as many revisions of this book as I have, including the early and sometimes scary drafts. He’s shared in every high and low and sat down with me for countless brainstorming chats. Some of my favorite lines and scenes came from those discussions. I would not be an author without his continual support and creative genius pushing me throughout this entire process.

Dawn Ius took a chance on me when she chose to mentor my manuscript in Pitch Wars. At the time I submitted it to her in 2016, the manuscript was rough. But Dawn recognized its potential and worked with me to shape it into a book. With that perfect balance of cheering for me and kicking my ass, Dawn helped me and my book become a contender.

My agent, Jenny Herrera, took a chance on me when she pulled me out of the slush. Not only did she offer me representation, which caused several fits of grateful, happy, ugly-crying, she also gave me brilliant and spot-on editorial feedback before sending me off to my revision cave to revise yet again. Both fierce and wicked smart, Jenny is the ultimate warrior, the kind you want to fight alongside and hope to never come across in battle. I cannot thank her enough for her support, her encouragement, her counsel, and her witty sense of humor. That last part should not be underestimated—in this industry, being able to laugh as often and as loudly as possible is essential to surviving it.

My team at Blink took a chance on me when they acquired my book and offered me the dream I’ve coveted since I was nine. A big thank you, with all the virtual hugs attached, to Sara Bierling and Jacque Alberta; their sharp insight and careful attention to detail helped me polish this book into its presentable shape. Thank you to Jillian Manning for first showing interest, and to Jennifer Hoff, Hannah VanVels, and the entire team for their enthusiasm and support.