The clue to book jacket photography is to look friendly and approachable, but not too glamorous.

People in my books tend to get their just deserts, even if not at the hands of the police.

I love hearing details of writers' craft, as cannibals eat the brains of clever men to get cleverer.

Normally I make myself swim, do exercises. For zest I like going to the cinema.

My mother, who was quite sharp when I was young, became utterly mild.

As the Dauphine stepped out of her carriage on to the ceremonial carpet that had been laid down, it was the Duc de Choiseul who was given the privilege of the first salute. Presented with the Duc by Prince Starhemberg, Marie Antoinette exclaimed: 'I shall never forget that you are responsible for my happiness!

I can't read historical fiction because I find the real thing so much more interesting.