It beats me why it took three years, but it’s done at last. That is to say, the story is written. It will return to me after copy editing and again for review of page proofs. But these stages deal with technical matters, repairs, and adjustments. The Duke of Ashmont’s story is told, and in Cassandra Pomfret he has found, I hope you’ll agree, the perfect match.
After a short break, I intend to begin the Duke and Duchess of Blackwood’s story.
Meanwhile, I’m celebrating. Then I’ll start tackling the thousands of household chores and obligations that were shoved aside in order to finish Ashmont’s story.
I hope you and all those near and dear to you are well and safe. Books, at least, are safe, and if you’re like me, you’ve doubled (at the very least) your reading quotas. After a day of not-so-good news, it’s a beautiful thing to allow myself to be lost in the pages of a novel.
It makes me deeply grateful and happy to know my books give you a place to be lost, too. A number of you have written to me in appreciation, making me feel doubly thankful for my good fortune in embarking on and being able to sustain this career. I’m proud to be writing books that offer escape and comfort (and a dose of humor, I hope) at any time, but especially during these difficult times.
Thank you for sticking with me. Thank you for your many messages of support. I hope Ten Things I Hate About the Duke lives up to your expectations. I know I did my best for you.
