The Inmate

by Freida McFadden

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS My husband just caught me writing this. I admitted to him that writing the acknowledgments can be the hardest part of the book. I save it until the bitter end—as close as possible to release as I can get without risking forgetting about it entirely. I am always scared of thanking people inadequately. “Do you have to write an acknowledgment for every book?” he asked. “Yes.” “But why?” “Are you asking me why I have to thank the people who helped me? Are you asking me why that’s important to do? Is this a serious question?” “Okay fine,” he said. “Hey, do you ever thank me in your acknowledgments?” “Yes, sometimes,” I said thoughtfully. “I mean, I thank my family. You’re in my family.” “Hey, I’m helpful! I give great suggestions. It’s your fault if you don’t take them.” “…” “Conjoined twin. I’m telling you.”

Sounds like a conversation that could take place between my husband and myself. 😂🤣