Chapters (39)
On a lighter note, while I was developing this story, my husband came across a rather unexpected blessing outside our church—a small tabby kitten in desperate need of saving. We named her Sammy and integrated her into our house (much to the initial despair of our two older cats), and she became the inspiration for Darling. All of Darling’s mannerisms are, in fact, Sammy’s—though what I didn’t manage to work in is our kitten’s utter gracelessness. She has the most remarkable ability to not land on her feet!
As always, I need to thank all the people who help me in my writing process. Elizabeth (yes, this is for you too!), my England native who checks for Americanisms for me; Rachel, for being the best virtual assistant in the history of the world; Stephanie, who cheers me on from afar with hilarious emojis when our writing retreat is canceled because of a pandemic and I’m forced to closet myself in my office alone; David, for being a superhero of a husband, giving me writing time, and being a brainstorming partner and beta reader; Xoë and Rowyn, for always putting up with a distracted mama; Mom and Dad, Nanny, Jennifer, and Terri, for always being proud of me. The amazing team at Bethany House, who help me transform my manuscripts into something worthy of the readers’ time; and finally, YOU—my readers. Your enthusiasm, loyalty, and encouragement make it all worthwhile. Thank you for all the notes you send, the social media photos of my books in pretty settings, and always asking about other possible stories. More than once it’s been those questions that have inspired me!
I hope you all enjoyed this introduction to a new world set in the islands and that you’re curious about what might come next. Because Beth, Lady Emily, Sheridan, and Telford have their own stories to tell, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what legends and mysteries they stumble upon!