Well, Best Wishes

I'm feeling tired and wistful and grateful and melancholy, and there are a few things I'd like to make clear right now.

For obvious reasons, things didn't go smoothly on the Good Omens graphic novel. But I honestly believe it's some of the best work I've ever done.

The support I've received from Dunmanifestin - The Terry Pratchett Estate - is extraordinary.

Yet I can't help but feel very badly that I let so many people down, not the just the Dunmanifestin staff, but the fans.

While I've had some challenges on this project, it is entirely my responsibility to manage my health, my state, and my time.

Never did I imagine that my physical and mental issues would hold me back so long. I made many promises of a return to imminent robust good health and focus, none of which came true until about...oh, three weeks ago. I did more work in about three weeks than I did in almost 5 months.

I feel terrible that the kind and generous staff, especially Rob Wilkins, kept waiting for me while I dragged on in various degrees of distress, telling myself "Everything is fine!" while I stared at the wall.

While the paper wobbled in front of my face.

While everything I drew the day before looked like garbage the day after.

While I felt sorry for myself.

While they gave me every consideration.

I have never worked as hard on anything, nor have I ever paid as high a price for anything.

But the Dunmanifestin team also paid a high price waiting for me.

They could have hired another artist, but chose not to. I feel that the many empty promises I made to get back on the horse and ride had everything to do with that.

I don't know if I'll ever do - or be able to do - another project of this scope again. I don't think it would have been easy even if I hadn't had significant challenges to overcome.

But here we are.

I set aside my stress, my anxiety, my sadness, and even a bit of bitterness, and move forward with hope, with gratitude, and most sincere apologies to the Dunmanifestin team and to all who have waited so patiently. You have my most fervent apologies. I sincerely - most sincerely - hope you enjoy the book. I did my best.

With all my love and deepest gratitude.

c