Restraint - Adriana Locke Page 0,101
I know and I thank my lucky stars every day that she and I happened to read the same book and be on the same social media page at the same time so many years ago. I’m honored to call you a friend, Kari.
My life has so many moving parts. Tiffany keeps everything, and me, together. But she’s more than my assistant and life scheduler—she’s my friend. She works as hard as I do and does it without complaint. I’m grateful for you and for all you do, Tiffany.
I smile as soon as I think of Carleen. She has the other half of my brain. I can truly say that my books would not be written without her. I’m humbled by her intelligence and wisdom … and her willingness to open our chat box every day. Hey, Carleen—ok, ok, ok!
Like Blaire learned in Restraint, every girl needs a friend that will clam a car if the situation calls for it. In my life, that’s Mandi Beck. She’s my ride-or-die, willing to light a candle or bury a body—whatever is needed. She keeps me sane, grounded, and usually a little bit distracted. She’s also my best friend. Thank you for being the only person most days, Mandi.
The first time Jen called me on the phone—the moment when she became a real-life friend and not just an online friend—I couldn’t understand a word that she said. That Boston accent though! Now she can rant and rave about life and football (and sometimes my books) and I don’t blink an eye. Thank you, Jen, for reading every manuscript I’ve ever written and for being my storage locker. I bet my bill is getting high, huh?
S.L. Scott adds a layer of sunshine to my life. Her pep-talks make me feel like I can accomplish anything. Our daily chats keep me focused and energized. She is a bright light in the world. I’m beyond blessed to call her a friend. Thank you for being you, Suzie.
Susan is such a sweet soul that inspires me every day to be better. She juggles a thousand balls and does it all with a smile. I aspire to be the mother, wife, and friend that she is to so many. Thank you for always making time for me, my friend.
Lindsey Faber amazes me with her keen eye and willingness to do whatever it takes to make my manuscripts better. She’s not afraid to make me dig deep and do the work—but does it with such kindness and grace. I’m so thankful she chooses to work with me. You’re the best, Lindsey. Period.
Jenny Sims is a blessing, plain and simple. Every time she agrees to work on a project with me, I’m grateful. She’s always on board for my quick changes and finds time in her schedule when I need her. I imagine that she works with a smile all day because that’s the kind of person she is. I hope you know how much you’re appreciated, Jenny.
Every author needs someone as excited about their book as they are. That’s how I feel when I work with Candi Kane. She’s enthusiastic and fun, ready to spread the word about my book from the word go. It feels good to have her in my corner. Thank you for everything, Candi.
There are a hundred little things every day that need to be done and my team steps up and makes them happen. I’d like to give a huge moment of thanks to Ebbie, Kaitie, and Stephanie for keeping the proverbial lights on. I see you and appreciate you. Also, I’d like to thank Vickie for bringing so much cheer every day, without fail, to Books by Adriana Locke. You have no idea how your posts affect my morning. And to Chelle Sloan for your texts and for reading pieces of my manuscript—are you surprised I finally finished? I am.
I’d like to send a warm hug to the book bloggers, vloggers, and voracious readers that find as much joy in sharing books as I do in writing them. You bless me so much with your posts and tags and messages. Thank you for including me on your bookshelf.
And, last but not least, thank you to every reader that picks up my book. I know you have a million choices and I’m honored you chose mine. I hope you found a couple of hours of entertainment inside these pages and that this story made you smile. Sending you all my love.
About the Author
USA Today Bestselling author Adriana Locke lives and breathes books. After years of slightly obsessive relationships with the flawed bad boys created by other authors, Adriana created her own.
She resides in the Midwest with her husband, sons, two dogs, two cats, and a bird. She spends a large amount of time playing with her kids, drinking coffee, and cooking. You can find her outside if the weather's nice and there's always a piece of candy in her pocket.
Besides cinnamon gummy bears, boxing, and random quotes, her next favorite thing is chatting with readers. She’d love to hear from you!