I realize that I had always in my heart of hearts planned to write a biography of Marie Antoinette.

If I write that it was a cold day, you can be sure I know it was a cold day because Pepys told us.

My mother was a politician in my formative years.

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

Mary Queen of Scots was my first love, and that is always something special.

I think crime writing is my link with trying to preserve a sort of order.

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!