Past Heaven (47 page)

THE BIGGEST THANKS go to my amazing husband, Joe, who is my first editor and beta reader. His insight and comments make my books so much stronger. Thank you to my mom, my second beta reader and proofreader, and supporter of my stories from the time they began in elementary school. She has always loved everything I’ve written- even the steamy scenes.

To my wonderful beta readers: Alexis, Bekky, Christy, Danielle, Lisa, Kelly, Jen, Pam, Payton, Tamara, Tara, and Teri- how can I say thank you enough? Some of you asked me tough questions and some just gave support, but you all listened, encouraged, and lifted me up when I needed it. Special thanks go to Kelsey for answering all my horse related questions. Mom2 and Alexis Durbin, thank you for proofreading for me. Your attention to detail is awesome.

Thank you to Christine Manzari, who is the most amazing beta reader and proofreader. The time and care you put into the feedback of my books amazes me. Now I’m lucky enough to be able to call you a friend. Everyone needs to read her books- DEVIATION, CONVICTION, and HOOKED you will love them!

Until writing this book, I never understood the power of an amazing editor. Thank you to Ana Zaun. You taught me more than I can say and made me laugh along the way. Thank you for obsessing and caring as much about these characters as I did.

Thanks to Sarah Hansen from Okay Creations for the gorgeous book cover, and Julie from JT Formatting for getting me all ready to publish. I appreciate all of your work so very much. Also, I’d like to thank Autumn and Andrea from Wordsmith Publicity for planning my cover reveal and book tour.

Tamara Debbaut, there aren’t enough words to say how grateful I am. You took a chance on an unknown writer and have helped me almost every day since. Your talent and friendship has surpassed what I ever thought was possible. Someday I will visit you in Italy!

Finally, to anyone reading this right now- you have made my life-long dream come true. I am a writer, thanks to you.

LAURA WARD is the author of PAST HEAVEN and the New Adult novel, NOT YET. She lives in Maryland with her loud and very loving three children and husband. Laura married her college sweetheart and is endlessly grateful for the support he has given her through all their years together, and especially toward her goal of writing books. When not picking up toy trucks, driving to lacrosse practice, or checking spelling homework, Laura is writing or reading romance novels.