The idea for Past Perfect Life came from a segment I saw on the news a couple of years ago, about a teenage boy who had something similar happen to him. It caused me to think a lot about personal history, identity, and, above all, family. Writing this book reminded me how lucky I am to have been born to Dave and Judy Eulberg. And even though my siblings sometimes (wait, oftentimes) picked on their baby sister, I’m forever grateful to them: Eileen, Meg, and WJ. And then there are my nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, who always make me feel like I have someplace I belong.

I’m eternally thankful to my extended family at Bloomsbury, which keeps growing. Sarah Shumway not only came up with the perfect title, she also helped make this story stronger with her editorial insights. Huge thanks to the rest of the team: Diane Aronson, Erica Barmash, Hali Baumstein, Anna Bernard, Faye Bi, Frank Bumbalo, Liz Byer, Danielle Ceccolini, Phoebe Dyer, Beth Eller, Courtney Griffin, Melissa Kavonic, Erica Loberg, Cindy Loh, Donna Mark, Patricia McHugh, Brittany Mitchell, Valentina Rice, and Claire Stetzer.

Friends are also family. Erin Malone, Tina McIntyre, and my sister Meg gave me invaluable insights when I needed fresh eyes. My other sister, Eileen, helped answer some questions about law enforcement. (Big families have their benefits!) Kirk Benshoff handles all the tech stuff so I can concentrate on writing. Alex London let me borrow his dog (good boy, Baxter). I owe so much to the countless number of friends I’ve talked about this book with over the years. So much gratitude to Rose Brock, Varian Johnson, Sarah Mlynowski, and Jennifer E. Smith, who have had to talk me down from the various ledges I stood on while writing this book.

Finally, a writer would be nowhere without her readers. Thanks to every person who has picked up one of my books. Thank you to every bookseller, librarian, and educator who has placed one in the hands of a reader. And of course, to all the bloggers and book lovers who give authors the best gift there is—­telling people about a book they love. You’re all family to me.