Emily's faqs continued...

How do you go about getting a novel published?
First get a good agent. I took what I'd written - the first few chapters - to an agent with a fantastic reputation, and he helped me get it into shape. When I had six chapters and a full synopsis, he showed it to publishers. To my amazement, several were interested, and Headline made the best offer. I was delighted about that because the people there were so lovely. They gave me an advance and a contract, and I suddenly found I had to finish the book within six months, and then write another.

Do you find it hard to concentrate?
Not any more. Every aspect of my working life has changed since my first son was born. Before that, I was a great believer in having an extra cup of coffee and staring out of the window before watching Neighbours, and finally getting down to some work later in the day. Now, I no longer have that luxury. Everything works around childcare, so working time is precious and I have to use it efficiently. I enjoy it. It is an enormous contrast to running round the French countryside in pursuit of two lively toddlers.

How did you research Cuban Heels?
We spent a couple of months in Havana last year, with the baby in tow. It was (and still is) the only big trip we have done so far as a family. Although it was extremely hard work, it was a wonderful experience. I took notes while we were there, but devoted most of my time to buy enough vegetables from the markets to feed the baby. People were enormously kind to us and I would go back tomorrow if it wasn’t for the 11 hour flight.

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