I want to particularly acknowledge my late grandmother Velma Hobbs, née Parks. The character of Eirini featured much more in earlier versions of this novel, and it was her relationship with Anna that inspired me to use my grandmother’s maiden name in my pen name. Grandma Hobbs, as I called her, was the most loving, patient, kind, compassionate woman I have ever known, maybe tied with her daughter. I hope to one day be half the woman she was.
For putting up with Sam the Writer (who is far moodier and short-tempered than normal Sam), thank you to my gorgeous husband Alex. You have taught me so much about what love looks and feels like, and I couldn’t have written a romance without having lived ours.
Thank you to my mother Lisa Gale, both for reading the first drafts and for having so many friends. You’re probably responsible for at least half the sales of my book. Your support means the world to me, and this accomplishment wouldn’t be nearly as sweet without you to share it with me.
To Victoria Stevens, one of the most talented writers I know and my dear friend, thank you for inspiring me to do what I love, for paving the way, and for taking me to France where I wrote the first words of this novel.
To Jaye Rockett, thank you for being the most incredible champion and supporter I could ever ask for. Everyone should be lucky enough to have a friend like you.
To Shermia Roberts, thanks for the kick in the ass when I was avoiding and procrastinating. This book wouldn’t exist without you.
And to Evelyn Maniaki, thank you for your help with all things Greek.
Lastly, I want to thank all of you readers who have made it to the end of our journey with Anna. It has been such a privilege to write for you. I hope that life brings you happiness, and that you are able to experience love every single day. I can’t wait to share more stories with all of you. Thank you for the opportunity.
About the Author
Samantha Parks is the pen name of Sam Gale. Her pen name comes from her late grandmother Velma Hobbs nee Parks, who was one of Sam’s greatest role models. Sam was born in North Carolina but now resides in Bournemouth, UK, with her husband Alex. She owns a successful marketing company and is enjoying her slow descent into “crazy plant lady” status.
The Summer House in Santorini is her first novel.
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About the Publisher
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