Shadows at Stonewylde (59 page)

And then the message began as Harold gaped in absolute horror at the screen, his vision for Stonewylde’s future in ruins. Slowly growing out of the dark red, one huge black word appeared. It flashed on and off, on and off, almost mesmeric in its intensity, followed by another word and a message:

M
y thanks go to:

My son George (for persuading me that Stonewylde couldn’t end at the third book), my other sons Oliver and William and my foster daughter Kirsty – I’m the luckiest mother to have you four behind me.

My fabulous literary agent Piers Russell-Cobb of MediaFund.

Gillian Redfearn, my talented editor at Gollancz.

Jen, Nina, Charlie and all the team at Gollancz and Orion.

My sister Kim for your fantastic help with publicity.

My sister Claire of Helixtree and Rob Walster of Big Blu Design for the beautiful Stonewylde logo.

All my lovely family, close and extended, for your support and enthusiasm.

My friends and ex-colleagues in Dorset – for your encouragement right from the very beginning.

The Stonewylde readers, and especially those in my online community – I can’t thank you all enough. You’ve bought my books, spread the word, travelled to meet me, rooted for me, praised and encouraged me. You’ve made Stonewylde successful and I really hope you all enjoy this fourth book – you’ve waited long enough!

Mr B, my wonderful husband. I saw the crescent but you saw the whole of the moon; I’d have faltered long ago without your faith in me. Thank you xxx