ABOUT THE BOOK

Raul Espana proposed marriage to Lydia while they were entwined in a bolero at a Manhattan dance hall. He called her his empress. They were both from pre-Castro Cuba and Lydia's father had been mayor of his town, so although Raul was just a humble waiter, Lydia's manner was always proud, her neighbours might say a little arrogant.

Oscar Hijuelos won the Pulitzer Prize for 'The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love'. He is also the author of 'Mr. Ives' Christmas', 'The Fourteen Sisters of Emilio Montez O'Brien' and 'Our House in the Last World'. He lives in New York City.