Then Oliver called him upstairs to brush his teeth, and Jay scampered off again, leaving the toy with me.
I sighed a doggy sigh, snuggled up agai
nst the cuddly toy, and fell asleep, a very happy dog indeed.
As with every book I write, I owe a million thank yous to everyone who put up with me during the process. In this case, particular thanks goes to:
My Mum, for coming and looking after us every time one of us got ill (which was surprisingly often this year!).
My Dad, for manfully coping without Mum during those times. Also, and even more vitally, the new MacBook I used to write the story.
My husband, Simon, for constant support, care and general wonderfulness. Also pouring me wine, doing the laundry, and listening to me read out my pros and cons lists every time I have to make a decision about anything.
My daughter, Holly, for making the world a far more interesting place, and being very patient with me. (See, sweetheart, I told you I’d write a book with a Holly in it one day!)
My son, Sam, for being the most delightful baby boy ever, even when he brought home every possible cold, cough and stomach bug from nursery for four long months. Also, thank you for finally sleeping through the night. Your father and I appreciate it.
My agent, Gemma Cooper, for never saying ‘I told you so’ even when she totally could have, and for always responding to 84 panicked emails before breakfast with a calm and soothing phone call.
My editor, Charlotte Ledger, for cheering me on, supporting me and encouraging my career ever since that first cup of tea back in 2012. I’m still so thrilled, every single time we get to work together.