Amelia broke away, laughing. ‘Here’s to us!’ she cried, happiness flooding through her. ‘To Granite Ridge and all who set foot on her, may you always be happy.’
‘Cheers!’ everyone said.
‘And to Graham,’ she added softly, looking up at the stunning, clear blue sky.
Acknowledgements
Mae Flynn, once again your help, friendship and advice has been paramount in helping me type ‘The End’!
Kathy Mexted, for always being at the end of Facebook. Thanks for helping out when I was so seriously stuck!
The AMAZING Kate Goldsworthy. I am one hundred per cent sure Emerald Springs wouldn’t have reached the finish line in this polished state if it hadn’t been for your constant support, Skype calls and editorial skills (thanks, Louise, for letting me have Kate!). I’ll forgive you for pushing me to write chapter summaries. I’m so sad I won’t be working with you next time and I wish you the best plus every ounce of good luck for your next venture.
Thank you to all the crew at Allen & Unwin—especially Louise, Sarah and Amy—for your understanding and patience with me during trying times. Your support and belief in me is overwhelming. Siobhan Cantrill, even though I’m not working with you anymore, you’re still there!
Gaby Naher, my incredible and supportive agent. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your generosity with your time and expertise is greatly appreciated.
Anthony, for making sure I had the time to finish this book.
Rochelle and Hayden, I am so proud of you both. Your maturity and sensitivity during the last year have been so impressive. You are both wonderful human beings and I am totally blessed you are in my life.
Cal, I love you. I love knowing you are happy and smiling so much more these days. And to Aaron, for making that happen for my darling friend.
My incredible friends (old and new) who have never let me fall. Special mentions to Carolyn and Aaron, Heather, Shelley, Tiffany, Amanda, Ann, Robyn, Chrissy, Jan and Pete (I couldn’t have asked for more loving and beautiful neighbours), Jenny Mac and my other friends who have strong hands; you will always have my heart. Also, my sister, Susan.
The girls from Outback Paparazzi, Amanda and Ann. (Please check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/outbackpaparazzi.) When you started this group, Amanda, I could never have foreseen the bond and friendship we have all formed. I love you both more than you could ever realise. Even when you’re both yelling at me in caps lock! (‘Ann, don’t yell, darling!’) Can’t wait to visit you both.
My writing friends who double as real ones! Fiona Palmer, Angela Slatter, Rachael Treasure, Nicole Alexander, Margareta Osborn and Tony Park.
To the ‘real’ Dave Burrows, Dave Byrne. Thanks for all your help, mate. Beer next time I’m in Perth.
Finally, but most importantly you, the reader, and my Facebook and Twitter friends. I can’t express how grateful I am that you have supported me by reading my books. It’s all because of you.
You can friend me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FleurMcDonaldAuthor or follow me on Twitter: @fleurmcdonald.
Emerald Springs Page 30