For the Love of a Lush (Lush No. 2) (33 page)

"Oh God," she whines.

"Not to worry, sweetheart. I’ve got it under control."

"I love hearing you say that," she tells me.

"And I love you, Mrs. Clark. More than you’ll ever know."

The Rope A Dream Foundation

When I started writing about a ranch, I quickly realized I was going to need some help. I don’t generally get too far into the details of a world I know nothing about, but I do want to sketch a picture that’s relatively accurate. So far, in every book I’ve written I’ve needed a “technical advisor” to help me create these sketches of worlds I’m not so familiar with.

The problem was, I didn’t know any ranchers. However, Facebook being what it is, I posted a cry for help, and within an hour one of my Street Team members, the lovely Kay B., had introduced me to a close family friend, Hunter Grayson. Hunter is a charming young man who knows all about ranching and cattle and was kind enough to give me an evening via chat while I asked a lot of what were probably really dumb questions. Any errors in this book that relate to the ranching industry are entirely my fault, as he gave me flawless information.

Hunter is also the creator of a very special organization called The Rope A Dream Foundation. It’s a non-profit created in memory of Hunter’s late roping partner Jordan Ellis. The Rope A Dream Foundation raises money to support kids who want to be active in some sort extracurricular activity but whose parents can't afford to place that in their budget. Hunter doesn’t ever want money to be the reason a kid can’t at have a chance at chasing their dreams.

If you find it in your heart and your budget to give a few dollars to a worthy organization this year, I’d urge you to take a look at The Rope A Dream Foundation. Their address is PO Box 254 Watkinsville, Ga. 30677.

Sometimes I think this is the hardest part of writing a book. You always want to make sure to thank everyone properly, but you don't want it to take up fifty pages. So, here it goes:

First and foremost for Selene and Heather at The REAL Housewives of Romance blog. They've been readers, supporters, advisors, and friends almost since I started this journey, and I'm so freaking attached to them now that I'm not sure I could put out a book without them. In addition, Selene has taken the job as my publicist, and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect fit. It is a daily joy to have her in my corner. Also, to Brandi at Sugar and Spice Book Reviews. Her insightful and candid assessments of my work are a rare find, and I know how very lucky I am to be the beneficiary of her advice.

To my street team, Selena's Sentries. I'd name them all, but it would take too long. You know who you are ladies, and you know I adore and cherish each one of you.

To Mickey Reed, my editor, who is not only the person who polishes my work, but she also tells the world about it, backs it 100% every time, and is a fabulous friend I love as well.

To Michele at Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews, who does odd jobs for me but never thinks they're odd and is eternally cheerful, organized and ready to help.

To everyone who has read one of my books, written a review, or sent me a message. I just can't thank you enough. There aren't words—even for a writer. You make the journey worthwhile every single time.

Selena Laurence lives in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and spends a hell of a lot of time at soccer games, on her laptop, and reading. She requires a Mocha Latte every day to function, keeps a goldendoodle at her feet most of the time, and has more kids than she knows what to do with. Her husband, Mr. Laurence, spends as much time as he can at the office and the gym in order to avoid the kids, the dog, the laptop and the reading, but he always shows up for the soccer games, and he makes a mean Mocha Latte.

Selena loves to hear from readers. Contact her at any of the links below!

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ISBN-13: 978-0-9895391-7-3

This book is a work of fiction. References to real people, events, establishments, organizations, products, or locations are intended only to provide a sense of authenticity, and are used fictitiously. All other characters and all incidents and dialogue, are drawn from the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in encouraging piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights. Purchase and read only authorized editions.

For permission to use any portion of this material please contact the author at: [email protected] selenalaurence.com

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Books by Selena Laurence