Much as I love Mona Dunn, I love Patsy Ryder even more.

Painted in the late 1940s by New Brunswick artist Jack Humphrey, Patsy is a visitor to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery who finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“Bonjour, Patsy,” said Juliette. “My name is Juliette. Do you know how you have come to be in this room? I do not believe we have met before.”

Patsy’s voice sounded far away, as if the paper covering her was a heavy dampening curtain. “I just arrived. I don’t think I’m supposed to be here. I was dropped off to be appraised by Director Singer.”

It is the fact that Patsy is a visitor that makes her so valuable to the story, as well as her bravery when called to action.

The decision as to whether to use an imaginary or real painting as the the visitor character was never in question: Patsy Ryder is a portrait of my mother.

This is one of a few easter eggs I’ve put in the book, and the most meaningful to me. Even better, on the day of my book launch at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery on May 27th, my mother, who passed away in 2001, will be there, hung on the wall for everyone to see.

I couldn’t be more proud.

My mother, at the age she was painted, with her childhood friend, Donald Sutherland. Yes, THAT Donald Sutherland.

So when you read the book and reach the part about Patsy, remember: the real one grew up to be someone very special!

Love you Mum!