I’m indebted to Liz Bailey, who does a brilliant job editing my manuscript to identify any ambiguity, confusion or mistakes. She also provides valuable feedback on the story to tell me what works and what requires further attention, ensuring the finished story is as good as I can make it.
Jane Prior of String Design then turns my vague ideas into a stunning cover that maintains the brand feel while capturing the essence of the story within.
Caroline Vincent and her team of bloggers provide invaluable support during the launch the book, sharing reviews and comment across social media to bring the story to the attention of far more readers than I could ever reach.
Finally, I have to save the biggest thanks for my wife, Carol, who’s always the first to read the finished draft. Not only does she have to put up with me diving off to write notes at the drop of a hat for months on end, she reads the unedited version, warts and all, to offer me an honest first opinion and plenty to put right.
And last but not least, I have to mention Harvey, my West Highland white terrier, who’s the inspiration for Kent’s dog, Columbo, in the series. Harvey often sleeps nearby, waiting patiently for me to break for lunch, which he always shares with me. He’s also an incredibly good listener, especially when I’m struggling with the plot or a character.
Can I also take this opportunity to reiterate that this is a work of fiction, filled with characters, locations and situations that are the product of my imagination. Any resemblance to any living person is unintentional and purely coincidental. Many of the locations and businesses in the stories are invented to avoid misunderstandings or similarities with real enterprises. A few places, such as Birling Gap, Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters are too beautiful and iconic to replace. Other places, such as the Eight Bells in Jevington are too special to be replaced with a fictional equivalent, though I have invented the people who work there.
In all other respects, I remain as faithful as possible to the South Downs and its lovely villages because people enjoy reading about familiar locations.
Kent Fisher is due to return for his fifth outing in No Mercy.
Robert Crouch
April 2019.
No More Lies Page 27
