I published and wrote books before it. But I’m glad it took me as long as it did. I became a better author and it gave me the chance to rewrite the novel. It gave me the chance to give Stevie and Julian a deserving book. Most of my readers had fallen in love with Julian before they even met him. They had put it together that Stevie and Julian were meant to be. Truth be told, I had planned on never writing their story.
Why? Well, because I hadn’t planned on becoming an author, that my author career would end after I had finished Noel and Clara’s books. It was just something I added. Little did I know how much my readers wanted this book. Begged, pleaded, and sent me messages needing What You Left Behind. If you were one of those readers, thank you. Your love and want helped write this book. My life went through so many emotional ups and downs while I wrote this book. And I’m so glad Stevie and Julian were with me through it. They have been one of my favourite couples I have written to date. Because they were real to me. Their story was as real as it comes. There was nothing grand in what they did except for fall in love with each other. Right, I’ve lost track of my acknowledgements… this always happens. So here goes…
Thank you to my family. Mum, Dad, Dennis, Leslie and Emily. Thank you for supporting me and for understanding my need of supplies (chips, soft drinks and chocolate) when I write and for bringing it to me. I have been absolutely blessed with such an amazing family.
Leslie, here is your acknowledgement. And no, you are not my favourite. You’re one of three of my favourites. xo
Jaycee Ford and Alex Rosa, I’d be lost without you both. You’ve both talked me off the ledge countless of times. The first half of this year was so rough but you were both there, making sure I didn’t do something ridiculous. I love you both. I am a better person and author with you both in my life.
Danielle Woodside, you are always there for me when I need you. You’ve been mon soleil rayonnant throughout my career. Thank you for being my friend and confidant. Thank you for loving me the way you do.
Najla Qamber, for always making the covers always so beautiful. You bring so much justice to my covers that I have no idea how to thank you enough <3
Jenny Sims, I dedicated this book to you because you were there for me when I lost my direction as an author. I lost my drive and you came to my rescue. No words could ever really express how much I am grateful to you. Thank you for editing this book. Thank you for pointing out that Julian and Stevie made you laugh. Thank you for everything you do.
Between the Sheets PR, you ladies have been absolutely wonderful in promoting What We’ll Leave Behind and now What You Left Behind. Thank you for squeezing these books in and for hosting their releases.
Emily and her talented team at, E.M. Tippetts Book Designs, you always make the interior beautiful. Thank you for being there when I need you. For making all my books and journal as beautiful as they are.
Kristen Gehrman, my French translator. Thank you for agreeing to translate the French parts of this book. I have learnt so much from you. I have loved working with you and can’t wait to work with you again. Merci beaucoup!
Erin Spencer, for ALWAYS being more than I deserve. Thank you for your friendship and for believing in me. For thinking of me and for all that your amazing blog has done for me. Cannot wait to see you again. Love you!
Big thank yous to Tash Drake from Book Lit Love for being my donut bestie. Thank you for being there whether it be to talk to or to promote my books. You are what this industry needs. Your sweet heart and loving nature. Stay true to you, Tash. <3
Also, to the lovely authors I have met and am so honoured to be able to be in the same industry in, Penny Rudge, M.R. Field, Carmen Jenner, Lauren McKellar, Jennifer Ryder (who will fight men to get me a taxi), Rachel Brookes, Simone Nicole, Tina Gephart and Natasha Preston <3
To the countless blogs that have supported me and my books. Thank you. I am nothing without my bloggers and their love. Special thank yous to some of my favourite bloggers out there, Southern Belle Book Blog, Book Lit Love, Glass Paper Ink Book Blog and Love Between the Sheets <3
Jaymes Young, your music inspires me and spoke of my characters inner demons and struggles. Thank you for all the music that you write. ‘I’ll be good’ will always be Stevie’s song.
My readers. My lovely, devoted and loyal readers. I always say that I am nothing without you but it is so true. I love you all. You’ve all been so patient and waited forever for Stevie and Julian’s books. Thank you for being the best readers an author can have.
To my Lenatics and The OhmyJulian Fan Club, you are all remarkable. Thank you for your support in not only me and my books but also my characters. Love you all ridiculously. And special mentions to Carine and Fanny for all their help with the prequel and the novel!
It took a long time but finally we got there.
I hope I got it right.
Love,
Len
PS. Never say never. More Julian could be just around the corner ;)