There is no idea so brilliant or original that a sufficiently-untalented writer can't screw it up.

Never underestimate the potential for human stupidity when wealth and power are at stake.

The issue of the Betrayal was so central to that, I felt the need to comment upon it. My choices were to ignore the games and put them 'outside' of continuity or to integrate them. I chose the latter.

There is no idea so brilliant or original that a sufficiently-untalented writer can't screw it up.

I know you'll think this odd, but I find it strangely exhilarating not knowing what's coming next.

I don't write fantasy; I write historical novels about an imaginary place.

In the end, my reasons for moving down the timeline and introducing a new cast have more to do with keeping myself entertained, on the assumption that if I get bored, my readers are going to be even more bored.