Folks, it put me through a lot. The experience didn’t make me stronger. Nor did it inspire me to reach new heights in my career. No, it made me bitter. Honestly, I’m still salty about it.

Again, I’m kidding.

Or am I?

Seriously, though, this book is for you, my lovely readers. As many of you know, its predecessor, The Worst Best Man, released one month before our world was forever changed by the Covid-19 global pandemic. Since then, I’ve received countless messages from readers in the United States and abroad telling me that TWBM helped them through a difficult time. Those messages fueled me. And served as a powerful reminder that my stories, though funny and flirty and, yes, a little dirty, can make a difference in people’s lives.

Although none of us can predict what the world will look like when this book releases, my wish for how it will be received won’t change: I hope it gives you a much-needed respite from whatever challenges you may be facing.

Oh, one more thing: I hope it makes you laugh. That’s the least this bitch should do, right?

Okay, so now I need to express my deepest gratitude to the people who helped me get this book in your hands.

To my husband: You have always been my biggest cheerleader, and, boy, did I need a lot of cheering this time around. Thank you for having my back and for loving me unconditionally. No fictional hero will ever hold a candle to you.

To my daughters: You are the sweetest and wittiest girls I know. I still occasionally pinch myself when I think about the joys of being your mother. Thank you for checking on me, bringing me coffee, and encouraging me whenever I needed an extra boost. I love you the mostest.

To my mother: You were always enough and so much more. Thank you for everything. Eu te amo muito.

To my dear friend Tracey Livesay: Thank you for being my hype person; I’m honored to be yours. I quite literally could not have finished this book without you. Your uplifting advice and helpful counsel gave me the push I needed. Picture our favorite GIF from The Color Purple here.

To Sarah Younger: Your agenting skills are unmatched, and your support is priceless. Thank you for assuaging my fears, silencing the doubts, and continuing to believe in me and my stories. I’m glad we’re on this journey called publishing together.

To Nicole Fischer: Until this book, I don’t think I truly understood the careful balancing act you have to play in your role as a book editor. Somehow, you managed to steer me in the right direction without stifling my ideas or my voice. I’m so grateful for your insights and expertise (and for the LOLs in the margins).