We're nothing if we're not loved. When you meet somebody who is more important to you than yourself, that has to be the most important thing.

Of course, I should have done what doctors said and walked for miles every day and not eaten great amounts of butter. But then, life is life, and if we all did what they said we should do, it would be a different world.

When my sister Joan arrived, I asked if I could swap her for a rabbit. When I think what a marvellous friend she's been, I'm so glad my parents didn't take me at my word.

I do try to live every day as if it were my last, and it has worked for me so far.

Never mind money; the gifts of time and skill call into being the richest marketplace in the world.

I love thriller writers. My favourites are Harlan Coban, Lee Child, Ian Rankin, Kathy Reichs and Ed McBain.

I think I was dealt a good hand. I have happy genes.