Emily Astillberry is an author and RSPCA Inspector from Norfolk. She has a degree in English Literature and Linguistics from York University and has been investigating animal cruelty, neglect and rescuing sick and injured animals for almost 20 years. In her day job, Emily deals with very difficult and often emotional situations. She meets all sorts of people from all kinds of backgrounds. Her career provides a lot of the inspiration for themes and characters that can be found in her fictional work.
At home, in an old cottage in the country, Emily lives with her husband, 5 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 2 giant African land snails and a varying number of free-range hens – all rescued of course! Finding time to write can be a challenge! She is happiest outdoors, growing fruit and vegetables in the garden, walking the dogs and family holidays usually involve walking up mountains in summer, skiing down them in winter and sleeping in a tent whenever possible.
Emily loves spending time with her large, noisy, chaotic family, cooking meals for friends and playing board games. She always has at least one book on the go and has always dreamed of writing a novel. ‘The Essence of Bliss’ is Emily’s first published novel.