Merrywood is his own man, as you will come to respect. But the strongest fort is built with a buttress.

My editor, Louise Bouzari, is an authority of the English language, whose proofing has spared me many an embarrassment. Louise is also an engine of encouragement and advice. I would encourage other writers to take advantage. She can be found at writing-rescue.com.

‍ ‍A Lovely Man is a novel. The manner of publication is also quite novel. My web designer, Katie Bolin, knows her stuff, as you can see for yourselves. I may be the future of literature, but live in the past, in terms of technology. Katie has been most patient. Look for her at designforauthors.com.

A good company read the work in progress; a good number of complaints remade the book. I want to acknowledge the help of Fernie Boorman, Ryvenna Lewis, Steve Jaqua, Ingrid and Bill Wooten, Lisa Carlson, Aliyah Muhammed.

I am under the influence? The reader would best be the judge. But I would be flattered if you found some affinity—Samuel Pickwick, Tristram Shandy, Bertie Wooster . . .

  I thank one and all, most kindly.