Q: How did you choose a career in writing?
A: I’ve wanted this for as long as I can remember but for years I thought it was an unrealistic ambition. I just didn’t know how to go about it or whether I was producing anything any one would ever want to read! But you don’t know what you can do until you try, which is an obvious thing to say but still worth saying. Whatever your ambition is, give it a go (providing it is legal!).
Q: Where do you find the inspiration for your novels?
A: Life sparks my imagination but I never write biographies of individuals or try to reproduce people I know; my friends are saved that indignity. My characters are an amalgamation of a number of people I’ve met, watched or heard about plus a great big dose of ‘but what if…?’. The question ‘but what if…?’ is the one that kindles my imagination.
Q: You have many books in print. Is there one in particular that you really enjoyed writing or doing the research for?
A: I have ten novels in print. I’ve written ten novels in ten years which surprises me every time I think of it. I love all my babies but I can, hand on heart, say that my latest Men I’ve Loved Before is one of my favourites possibly my absolute favourite. There are some really meaty issues in there. It’s my sister’s favourite and she’s quite a tough judge!
Q: If you weren’t a writer, what do you think you would be doing for a career?
A: I might be a photographer. I love capturing who and what we are. People are infinitely splendid and stupid – that’s what’s so great about us. If not a photographer then maybe a Time Lord; I’m big into Dr Who
Q: How did you celebrate your first novel being published?
A: I got pregnant!
Q: How do you spend any free time you can get?
A: With my family. I’m married with one son. We’re a tiny unit but we adore each other. I’m very lucky and before I know it my son will be a teenager and his hormones will declare war on me so I’m enjoying as much time with him now as I possibly can.
Q: What is one personal or professional goal you have yet to achieve?
A: There are lots of things I’ve yet to achieve. It would be lovely to see one of my books made into a film or TV series. I’m always drifting in and out of options but nothing has gone into production yet. I think it’s good to have a dream though… I’d also really love to learn to stand on my head or do a cartwheel. I was a chubby kid and didn’t shine at anything remotely athletic; I’m now going to yoga classes and dream of standing on my head.
Q: Are you currently working on a novel?
A: Yes, I’m always currently working on a novel. I’m just putting the finishing touches to 2011’s novel, which is about friendship.
Q: What would be your advice to writers?
A:
1. Read. Novels, articles, newspapers – anything you can get your hands on. If you are not familiar (in fact in love) with the written word, you’ll never be a decent writer.
2. Write. Seriously, it astonishes me how many people tell me they want to be a writer but then confess they never write anything more elaborate than a shopping list. Write everyday even if it’s only for 20 minutes. Discipline is key.
3. Develop a thick skin, you’ll almost certainly get a few knock backs along the way. Pick yourself up brush yourself down and start all over again. Talent will break through.
4. Consider going on a course/join an online support group. I did a degree in English Literature and Language, I’m not suggesting you have to do the same but a weekend creative writing course may help with understanding the tools of the trade such as structure, plot and characterisation. You’ll also meet other would be writers and they can offer support.
5. Listen. Be inspired by everything that is going on around you.
Q: I’ve read that you’ve done quite a bit of traveling. What was your favorite place to visit?
A: The next place.
