Acknowledgements
It took what felt like a century (likely longer for my readers) but the book is finally finished! WOO! This conclusion was so much harder to write than my debut novel. The characters grew up, the playing field changed, and for a while I didn’t know where the journey was taking me. It was awesome and terrifying all wrapped in one, and I am so thankful for every single one of you who joined me for the ride.
Readers, I know this was not your typical romance story. It was riddled with heart break and terror, death and despair, and yet─ here you are. You made it to the end, love or hate me, you stuck with me all the way through my very first duet. I am forever grateful that you allowed me to take you on this journey that I poured my black little heart into.
Husbeast- What a strange year it has been. From the brightest day of our lives, to one of the darkest. Time and time again you have proved to be my rock, and I got to see firsthand that the strength of our love can withstand any hardship (in this and every alternate universe). Thank you for your constant encouragement, and never once complaining when I spend hours ignoring you to write (probably thankful for the break, let’s be honest, I’m a handful). You’ve always been, and always will be, my Prince Charming. I love you babe.
To the girls over in my reader group SK’s Octoposse - I LOVE YOU OCTOBITCHES!!!! Never did I imagine that with only one (intense) book out would I be able to grow such a thriving reader group. With Crowned with Guilt I didn’t filter myself, I didn’t hold back, I let my true self bleed into the story and even if I made you cry, scream, or throw your kindle at your husband, you still wanted more. As nervous and self-conscious as I was about sharing my story, you guys are what helped me gain confidence. You guys are crazy, hilarious, passionate, relentless (like fucking bulldogs), and hands down my biggest support system. Anytime I struggled with the book, wanted to give up, all I needed to do was turn to you and be reminded of why I write. My stories may never become famous, but you bitches make me feel like a star. Your excitement and your love for me and my words is the best thing any author could ask for. Quite literally tearing up writing this (getting awkward fucking stares) but thank you from the bottom of my black heart. #OctoQueen #YouGavemetheCrown
Tweedle Twat & Tweedle Brat- My Katies, thank you for being two of the most thoughtful, helpful, caring, and CRAZY women I have ever met. You both work tirelessly to keep the reader group in check (no easy feat) but also to spread the word about my book and help me when I am overwhelmed. Most importantly, thank you for your friendship. My life is brighter getting to talk to you almost every day and having you both as such amazing friends. LOVE YOU!
Julie - I can’t remember what I said in the last book, but it was probably around the same lines of I COULD NOT HAVE DONE THIS WITHOUT YOU!!!! You love my writing, maybe more than anyone (She has my words inked in her skin, if that ain’t love....), and that passion constantly reminds me to love my works and take it easy on myself when I want to give up. You read my drafts, and you tell me exactly how it is. You don’t pull the punches, you’re honest and you help mold my writing into something better. For that, and your unwavering friendship, you are invaluable.
Paige - PAAAAEEE!! Thanks for dealing with my mental breakdowns, of which I had. . . several. Haha! Seriously though, I can tell you anything in the world, my darkest or strangest thoughts, and feel safe with you. You’re on the other side of the world and yet I have found such a fucking amazing friend in you. Notfiance had better hold you tight, because whenever I cross that ocean, I’m gonna snatch you right up for myself. Thank you for always being there when I need you, for your laughter and your mesmerizing accent, for your beautiful heart and feisty attitude. You have a friend in me forever.
Mama Aimee- Thank you for taking the time to help me grow as an author. You are always honest which is not something many can claim to be. Your feedback, even when it is not something I want to hear, always helps my writing skills improve. You are a wonderful human with such a huge heart, thank you for taking me under your wing.
Twisted Sisters - Thank you for being my sisters by soul if not by blood. Beth you are my girl, and hands down the best drinking partner someone could ask for LOL. You never fail to make me smile and laugh, I envy your wild and carefree nature that takes the world by storm. You will do great things and I can’t wait to watch it unfold. #SHOTWHATEVER!
Nae, you care for others with such ferocity, that I fear for any who dares cross you or the ones you love. You make people, even ones you’ve just met, feel loved and safe and that is such a powerful quality you have. Thank you for your relentless kindness in dark times, I needed you and your warmth even when I didn’t realize it. Remember. . . I am the tide to your ocean.
BETAS! - I’ve mentioned most of you, but Yeri, Morgen, & MB thank you for all your help!!! As always, your feedback was critical to helping me improve the story, and some of your more vocal reactions were the BEST! Haha. I appreciate all the hard work you guys put into helping me!!!
SHADE- You’re my favorite person to insult. I fucking love you asshole.
Booksmacked Queen Bitch- Melissa Teo, yeah calling this one out by full name. If you don’t know her or her blog Booksmacked, go hunt them down and I promise you won’t regret it. Not only does she give the BEST book recommendations, but she is an awesome human being that you need to have in your life. Thank you, Mel, for everything you have and will do to help get my book in reader's hands. The diligent work you do for authors like me does not go unappreciated.
V- I love your adorable sad eyes and sharp tongue. Keep vigilant around your arch enemy. . . the bathtub.
B.A.N.G. - Shout out to everyone in the B.A.N.G. reader group. Joining this group full of inspiring authors and amazing readers, is what jump started my career as a writer. If you are a reader this is the group to be in for shenanigans and the best reading recommendations. You may grow broke from one clicking books on Amazon, but don’t let that scare you away.