While Beauty Slept (53 page)

To my fellow writers Jennifer Szostak, Mary Jean Babic, Mike Austin, Adam Beechen, and Peter Gianopulos: Each of you gave me a crucial pep talk when my confidence was faltering, and somehow you knew just the right thing to say (clearly, you all have a way with words). This roller-coaster writer’s life is a lot more fun with you along.

To my friends and fellow book lovers Sarah Lyke, Gayle Starr, Helen Widlansky, Laura Pryzby, and Barbara Kirchheimer: Your friendship and encouragement have enriched my life. I’m grateful I can call on you for a laugh, a sympathetic ear, or a good reading recommendation.

To my agent, Danielle Egan-Miller: Thank you for believing in this book—and me—from the very beginning. You are not only a passionate advocate and talented editor, but also great company (with fantastic taste in 1980s schlock fiction). Thanks also to Joanna MacKenzie for incisive editing and plot suggestions. Shelbey Campbell, you have my eternal gratitude for pulling me out of the slush pile.

To my editor, Amy Einhorn: Thank you for your encouragement, your passion for excellence, and the perfect title. I am a better writer for having worked with you. Thanks also to Liz Stein for her helpful guidance through the world of publishing.

Finally, I owe a debt to the musicians who inspired me through the many, many revisions of this story. Keane’s
Under the Iron Sea
, Mumford & Sons’
Sigh No More
, and
Clarity
by Jimmy Eat World may have no obvious connection to Sleeping Beauty, but I think of those albums as the unofficial sound track of my book—music that created an atmosphere that felt true to Elise and Rose’s world.

About the Author

A graduate of Northwestern University and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, Elizabeth Blackwell has worked as a magazine editor and freelance writer. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing stack of bedside-table books.