The Finishing School

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I am deeply indebted to my agent, Meg Ruley, for being my counselor, cheerleader, and friend. She’s the best. I am also indebted to all the other wonderful people at the Jane Rotrosen Agency for their assistance and support.

I still can’t believe how fortunate I am to be edited by Carolyn Marino, who combines tremendous insight and skill with the lightest, most gracious touch. All of the incredible people at William Morrow and HarperAudio are a delight to work with. I am especially grateful to Michael Morrison, Lisa Gallagher, and Dee Dee De Bartlo, and to Jennifer Civiletto for all her help.

The following people read this book in manuscript form and gave me terrific comments: Don Cleary, Christina Hogrebin, Nicole Gruenstein, and Randy Dwenger. Many thanks also to the one and only Cass Adelman for the excellent Manhattan doggy and girls’-school details.