I'm always writing - its what I like to do. But when I'm not writing, I'm reading.

Seasick," Scatty mumbled. "That's exactly what it feels like. Only worse.

I never base characters on real people - you can get into so much trouble that way!

Some writing courses will advise you to write what you know. I've always thought this is very odd advice ... because it means, for example, that I should not be writing about Nicholas Flamel, because I didn't live in France in the 15th Century, I was not an alchemyst, am not immortal (despite the rumours) and do not know magic.

I am of the generation of writers who can get instant feedback from readers within hours of publication. The fan forum is extraordinary - readers from all over the world coming together to discuss, argue and debate scenes and characters from a novel. They add a layer to the story that I cannot write and yes, I will participate in that conversation and answer questions. After all, they are the people I'm writing for and their enthusiasm and questions really pushes me to raise the bar.

I don't want somebody sucking up to me because they think I am going to help their career. I want them sucking up to me because they genuinely love me.

You told me it was a mistake to fight the scarred warriors. They were the survivors.