Everyone assumes writers spend their time lounging around, writing and occasionally striking a pose whilst having a think.

The sky was a sparkling succession of black diamonds on black velvet made crystal clear by the blackout.

History at its best is a gritty, dirty business.

The new contract between writers and readers is one I'm prepared to sign up to. I've met some fascinating people at events and online. Down with the isolation of writers I say! And long live Twitter.

She wishes her grandmother had not been so protective, and that she understood better what passes between a man and woman. As it is, she simply enjoys the feelings and wonders if they are what lightning is made of, for everything comes back to the weather. Tears like rain. Smiles like the sun. Hair as dry as sand and fear like the dark ocean.

Very often the characters people respond to best have little parts of reality they can relate to.

An Aunt is a safe haven for a child. Someone who will keep your secrets and is always on your side.