The Secret World of Briar Rose(108)
Thao Le, who believed in my story even while the YA market was weak and publishers were looking for either romantic or epic fantasy. Thank you for embracing my dual timelines, dream sequences, and dark themes without diluting the story to fit into a clear category. You once wrote to me saying you felt privileged to have worked on this book, when really it is my privilege to have someone like you behind it.
Zareen Jaffery, who understood this story’s message and pushed it further in all the right places. The world-building, character development, and themes were made stronger because of your thoughtfulness. You helped me expand these characters and worlds to have more layers, making the book better with each round of edits.
Enid Din and Kaitlin Yang, who drew and designed the beautiful cover for this book. I had a very specific vision and am grateful that you not only considered all my lengthy notes, but executed them to be even better. Thank you for being the reason that many people decide to pick up this book.
Kokila and Penguin Young Readers, who supported me throughout the publishing process and made me feel seen and heard. It is an immense privilege for an author to receive the attention and care you’ve given to this project. Thank you for being so inclusive and considerate.
Allegra Martschenko, who played a big part in my querying journey with your advice and edit notes. I owe much of Corin’s character development to you, particularly with the commune of artists, which led to her having an even more tragic background story. Thanks for helping me make Corin suffer more!
Ali Hazelwood and Kate Goldbeck, because even though my story had no relation to your books at all, you were so supportive of me that it showed how genuine and kind even “big authors” can be. No wonder your books are so damn delightful.
The Dream Girls, Levi, Marialuisa, and everyone I’ve done writing sprints with, because you know I hate drafting and can barely write a hundred words on a good day. The writing process is torturous, but your company alongside my slow ass helped this book get closer to the finish line. I can’t wait to shout about your books when it’s your turn.
Annabelle Slator, Mela Rogers, Akana Phenix, Rachel Phan, and every author I’ve had the pleasure of becoming good friends with. The publishing industry intimidates me because I hate pettiness and competition. It’s people like you who make the space so much better with your presence in it.
Victoria, because your unconditional love turned this sapphic story into an Own Voices book and continues to heal me.
Last but not least, everyone who has followed my journey on YouTube and social media. Whether you’re an avid commenter or silent lurker, a long-time viewer or a newbie, your support gave me a platform that increased my chances of publishing this book and made the publisher more invested in it. The internet can suck sometimes, but I’ve received kindness from so many of you during times when I could not be kind to myself. I hope I meet more of you IRL so we can escalate this parasocial relationship even further. And regardless, we’ll always have faerie dick jokes on the internet.