Parade

Chapter 1

Thank you to my mother and father for loving me.

Thank you to my brother, Timothy, for being the nicest person in our family.

Thanks you to my sister, Tina, for always being an ancient queen.

Thank you to my mother-in-law, Maureen, for all the love that I love so very much.

Thanks you to brothers-in-law, Steve and Dan, for making me laugh and feel at home.

Thank you to my very good friend, Gregory Collins. I love you, buddy. You’re my brother. Our fits of laughter are everything.

Thank you to Kimberly Mooney. You’re a darling and I’m grateful for your support.

Thank you to the very gifted Belle Brett for workshopping the baby version of Parade and my other kids on the way.

Thank you to my friend, Jason Anthony. Your wisdom, spirit and talent inspire me! There are so many more magical talks to be had.

Thank you to Laurie Foos, my mentor, my example, my friend.

Thank you to the STORGY Books team, Ross Jeffery and Anthony Self.

A giant heap of appreciation and love must go to Managing Director and Head of Publishing, Tomek Dzido. Tomek, you have believed in me in a way that few have. Your vision and direct guidance has been instrumental in reimagining my novel. Thank you for sharing your genius. Thank you for your friendship. This novel would not be possible without you.

Lastly and with the utmost importance, thank you to my husband, Scott. You’re the best part of me, the best part of life. I love you.