Litigation only makes lawyers fat.

When I vacate this sack of old bones I won't care what you do with it. Bury or burn it but don't make much fuss.

I read all of Rider Haggard's books. For me he had the romance of Africa with a little bit of mysticism. I'm delighted to be looked on as his heir and be categorised as an adventure novelist because that's exactly what I am.

My first novel was rejected by some of the most eminent publishers in the world. Starting again was a real wrench.

There's nothing so aphrodisiacal for a woman as money and success.

I think one of the most poignant things is unrequited love and loneliness.

Usually halfway through a book I have a serious depression, so I go on safari on my ranch in South Africa, or fishing off my island in the Seychelles. When I come back and re-read it, I think: 'What was all that about, Smith? It's fine, just get on with it.'