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All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett, book cover
Episode 39·7 January 2026·35 min

Emily EverettAll That Life Can Afford

A conversation about her debut novel.

About this episode

In this new episode of Elena Meets the Author, I’m joined by debut American novelist Emily Everett to talk about her novel All That Life Can Afford.

We talk about how Emily’s own experiences shaped the story, and explore themes of social class, ambition, friendship, and belonging. We also discuss the influence of Pride and Prejudice on the novel, and what it was like for Emily to write while balancing a demanding day job.

Emily shares insights into her writing process, reflects on the long road to finishing her debut, and tells me about her next novel, set in western Massachusetts. The episode also includes a reading from the first chapter, offering an early glimpse into the life and aspirations of the novel’s protagonist, Anna Byrne.

In this episode

  1. Introducing Emily Everett and Her Novel
  2. Plot Summary of ‘All That Life Can Afford’
  3. Interview with Emily Everett Begins
  4. Autobiographical Elements in the Novel
  5. Insights into Emily’s Next Book
  6. Choosing St Tropez Over Zurich
  7. Love for the British Library
  8. Living in London: A Magical Experience
  9. Writing Challenges and Successes
  10. Audiobook Narration Insights
  11. Book Recommendations and Inspirations
  12. Hopes for Readers and Personal Reflections