Brenda Maeder asked Martha Hall Kelly:

First I want to say, I loved Lilac Girls and cannot wait for Lost Roses. My question is about being a first time author. How did you get people to recognize your work? How long did it take? Do you have any hints for a first time author?

Martha Hall Kelly I was lucky and my agent pulled me from her slush pile, which was somewhat miraculous. Though most of the literary pundits advised against it, I had queried just before the holidays, and somehow Alexandra saw my query and asked to read the manuscript. So that part was quick. Then she suggested I do a year-long rewrite, focusing on one character, which was the best thing I ever did. Soon after I did that and she read it, she took it out to publishers and Ballantine acquired the book. My advice for a first time author would be don't doubt yourself, just write the most interesting, unputdownable book possible, something unique, something an agent can take to a publisher and sell. It may take some research to figure that part out, but understanding your genre is critical. It also helps to start with a premise you are fascinated with. And read Sol Stein's books. He's a phenomenal teacher.

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