Hearts at Play by Melissa Foster
Stroke of Love
Hearts on Fire
Slope of Love
Read, Write, Love
Acknowledgments
Fans often ask if my heroes and heroines are patterned after people I know, and the answer is that pieces of them often come from those around me: friends, family, people I meet when I’m out and about, and even people I know only online. If you see yourself in my hero or heroine, there might be a reason why.
There are a host of readers, bloggers, authors, and friends I’d like to thank, and there is never enough space to do so. I truly appreciate the efforts and support of every member of Team Pay-It-Forward, the blogging community, and the amazing volunteers of the World Literary Café. I could not have made it through many days without having each of you to turn to. Thank you.
My editorial team works above and beyond my highest expectations. They have worked extra hours and at breakneck speed in order to meet the intense publication deadlines for my Love in Bloom series, and they deserve a standing ovation. Tremendous gratitude goes to Kristen Weber, Penina Lopez, Jenna Bagnini, Juliette Hill, and Marlene Engel. I am forever indebted to each of you and in awe of your generosity of time, your energy, and your dedication to your craft. Thank you.
From far across the pond, author and friend Chrissie Parker has educated me on all things racing. Chrissie, many facts might not have made it into the book, and I took creative liberty to create Hugh and Brianna’s world, but you gave me more information than I could have hoped for. Thank you for your support and encouragement.
I often ask my social media friends for help with my work, and I’d like to thank all of you for taking part in the contests, for encouraging me to continue, and for making me laugh (and sending chocolate!). Jen Fernando came up with the name of Hugh’s racing circuit, the Capital Series Grand Prix. Thank you, Jen. It suits the book perfectly!
Kathie Shoop, you are always there to kick me in the butt or pull me through the mud when I get stuck. Thank you for your friendship and your ability to help me see path beyond the trees when I’m lost.
Russell Blake, six books ago you pushed me to take the Bradens further than I had planned, and ever since, you have proved a trusted and solid friend and a source of competition. Thanks, skater boy. Write on.
Hugs and kisses of gratitude and love to my understanding and supportive family. You make my world beautiful every day, and I appreciate you.
Melissa Foster is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the Women’s Nest, a social and support community for women, and the World Literary Café. When she's not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on Fostering Success. Melissa hosts Aspiring Authors contests for children, and has painted and donated several murals to the Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC.
Visit Melissa on her website or chat with her on The Women’s Nest or social media. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups and welcomes an invitation to your event.
Melissa’s books are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through most online retailers.
www.MelissaFoster.com
Melissa Foster, Hearts at Play