Nice to meet you—or otherwise, good to see you again. My name is Sarasa Nagase. On this occasion, I humbly thank you for reading this work of mine. This story was reworked and retitled from a work that was first posted and serialized on the web. The parts from Raven, the male love interest’s perspective, are all original to this volume, and the main text has been revised and expanded extensively, to the extent that I think even those who read the web edition will find something to enjoy about it.
This story once bore the title “The Young Lady Detective Will Not Make Deductions, Really,” but I never imagined it would be turned into a book. I’d only knocked it out to serve my own proclivities, since with the promise of a phantom thief as the male love interest, I could live quite happily on nothing but white rice.
Now, seeing it become a book—complete with gorgeous illustrations—is almost like being in a dream. I really hadn’t thought anything through at first, so when I finally began the work of rewriting it for print publication, there were many moments when I held my head in anguish. But if there is anyone else out there who enjoys it, who also likes the pairing of a detective and a phantom thief, then I will be satisfied.
Now for the acknowledgments. Firstly, Hatipisuwan-sensei. I am so thankful for the gorgeous illustrations you provided, despite your busy schedule. Just seeing your depiction of my Phantom Thief love interest is enough for me to feel happy that I’m alive.
Next, the editor in charge. Thank you for always dealing with me politely. As this was my first paperback, I did not know what was expected of me, and I believe I caused you trouble, but I enjoyed working with you very much!
I must also thank profusely the proofreaders, everyone in the editing department, the designers and marketers, and everyone who participated in the creation of this book.
Furthermore, it is only because of the support of everyone who read the story while it was still in its web edition that Octavia and Raven can now be found in the pages of a book. Thank you so much for your encouragement.
Finally, to everyone who was kind enough to pick up this book—what did you think of Octavia and Raven’s story? Hopefully, I will be able to write the continuation of their story. Until then, I pray that we will meet again.
Respectfully yours,
Sarasa Nagase