On a personal level, we can make a difference by choosing empathy over division. Listening over shouting. Thoughtfulness over self-interest. We can choose to look outside ourselves and act in ways that positively impact our neighbors, our communities, our environment, and the wider world.

My wish for you, reader, is that you find your own spark of inspiration that leads to a deeper connection with the planet. For me, it was traveling to the Galápagos. For you, it might be stepping outside, exploring your own backyard or local park, and letting the miracles of nature seep into your soul.

The world is a big, beautiful, complicated place, and I hope you discover your own slice of wonder in it.

Love to all,

Angie

Acknowledgments

Shipped is the book of my heart, but it never would have set sail without the help and support of many wonderful people.

My mentor, Sarah Andre, magically appeared in my life at a point when I needed her most. Thank you for believing in me when imposter syndrome came knocking. For that, and your advice on many fronts, I am eternally grateful.

To my critique partner, Amanda Uhl: thank you for keeping me on track and letting me test out all my bad ideas on you. You’re a talented writer and I feel lucky to count you as a friend. Gratitude to beta reader Danielle Haas for the superb feedback on an early draft of Shipped and to friend and travel partner Lindsey Davis for cheering me on and being willing to read whatever I send your way. Also, thanks to members of the Northeast Ohio chapter of RWA, Wellesley Writers, and the Omegas—I feel fortunate to be a part of so many supportive writing communities.

To my twelfth grade English teacher, Mrs. Hogan: thank you for introducing me to women’s fiction by assigning Like Water for Chocolate, and for teaching me that writing is a skill you can improve through effort over time.

To my agent extraordinaire, Jessica Watterson: you are, simply, the best. Thank you for championing Shipped and making a long-standing dream come true. I’m so fortunate to have you and the entire Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency team in my corner.

Many, many thanks to my brilliant editor, Molly Gregory. You helped elevate this story in ways I couldn’t have imagined, and your enthusiasm for Shipped has meant the world to me. Working with you is a joy and a privilege and I’m beyond grateful for the experience.

Sincere, bottom-of-my-heart thanks to the entire Gallery team as well for their work on Shipped and their tremendous support. Thank you, Jen Bergstrom, Connie Gabbert, Jen Long, Aimée Bell, Christine Masters, Faren Bachelis, Sally Marvin, Abby Zidle, Anabel Jimenez, Lisa Litwack, Caroline Pallotta, Rachel Brenner, and Anne Jaconette. And to Kate Byrne and my UK publisher, Headline Eternal, thank you for bringing Shipped to readers overseas.