I don't write non-fiction because I get bored. Some of my writing is autobiographical, but not the way readers imagine. I use my memory of settings, events and people. I weave history into my stories, but my narratives are made up.

I never wanted to be a writer; I just had stories I wanted to share so I learnt how to write and kept going. If I could sing or paint, I would.

At some point, practicality requires that you reach out to people in the business. You have to take care of business if you value your work.

You don't need attention to write. All you need is passion for your work and an overwhelming desire to tell a story you genuinely care about. Readers can sense your sincerity and it separates you from pretenders.

My accountancy experience could come in handy if ever I find myself in the right position. For now, I'm very happy to write.

I never wanted to be a writer; I just had stories I needed to tell.

I always begin [a novel] with outlines, but they change and so do my endings and beginnings.