Something I notice speaking to writers from south of Hadrians Wall is that the culture is different. At base, I think Scotland values its creative industries differently from England.

The law don't like jazz clubs. No one wants anything to do with that kind of trouble.

Sometimes I create a character from a scrap - a mere mention that has been left behind.

Writers of novels live in a strange world where what's made up is as important as what's real.

Like most little girls, I found the lure of grown-up accessories astonishing - lipstick, perfume, hats and gloves. When I write female characters in my historical novels, getting these details right is vital.

I believe the era of the militant lady is back.

People make interesting assumptions about the profession. The writer is a mysterious figure, wandering lonely as a cloud, fired by inspiration, or perhaps a cocktail or two.