26 JULY 2003, Page 55

Q. I am about to have a novel published but

am not famous enough to merit a string of profiles in the press. How do you suggest! go about getting some publicity?

J.M., London NW3 A. Go to the tabloids purporting to be suffering from some kind of unusual medical condition such as double bladder disorder (read up on it first). Spill the graphic beans in exchange fora plug for your book. You will find the editors all too eager to co-operate.

If you have a problem, please write to Dear Mary, clo 56 Doughty Street, London

WCII■1 2LL. Mary Killen