Thank you to Danielle and Chap, who endured many evenings listening to the click-clack melody of a MacBook keyboard. Thanks to Becca, who, through three different colored fonts in a shared Google document, helped with the mapping of this wild ride. To the readers, especially Bridget and Ricky, who endured the first, second, and third drafts of this manuscript, I apologize and thank you. From coast to coast, much love to my Fuckery Book Club girls–defenders, motivators, and pimps extraordinaire. Gracias to Jerry, my official Spanish Mexican Slang Consultant. To the watchers of the internet, thanks for not putting me on a high profile list somewhere for the things I research.

A special thank-you to the two ladies that I met in the swamp, where we toasted a beautiful sunset and drank wine off the library’s reference cart. Rose, who fell in love with this story from the very first page, and whose enthusiasm and editing eye made it better with each pencil mark. And Rachel, my cape-wearing, fine-print-reading, top-notch-negotiating, corgi-loving, voice of reason and pusher of all things me.

Lastly, I’d like to recognize all artists, whether they express themselves through written word, enamel paints, or inked skin; anyone fighting the demons of addiction, who have the strength and will to overcome; and those who were once victims, but who refuse to wear that label, you are all an inspiration.

SEASON VINING is a writer, a bookworm, a cook, a night owl, and always a student. Beautiful Addictions is her first novel. She lives in Louisiana, where she works as a graphic designer. To learn more, visit her on the Web at www.seasonvining.com.