If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

I’d love to spend some time with Margaret Atwood, the Canadian author. She’s not only a great writer, but very well-read, has a wicked personality and doesn’t think she’s special just because she’s famous. I’d love to chat with her about the inspiration behind some of her books.

What is your biggest fear?

To quote John Keats, “When I have fears that I may cease to be, before my pen has gleaned my teeming brain.”

There’s so much I want to write, so many ideas I’d love to share and only so much time to do it. But I guess we all leave things unfinished.

Do you have any superstitions?

I think the best way to get lucky is to work hard, so that’s my main superstition.

But I’m a great believer in paying it forward. The world would be much happier if we all did small favours for people without expecting anything in return.

If you could have only one song on your iPod, what would it be and why?

I’d have to buy an iPod first! But my favourite song is Question by The Moody Blues. I love the contrast between the two tunes, the words, the sound of the 12-string guitar and Justin Hayward’s story about it having unconnected ideas and deciding to try sticking them together. That’s how my stories often start.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought, not including property?

Apart from cars, it’s probably our table. It’s solid wood, from a Fair Trade store, so I know it’s renewably sourced and a fair price is paid to the workers. It wasn’t cheap, but it’s beautiful and really well made.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

I had a wonderful English teacher who taught me that there are different types of writing. She helped me understand the difference between writing a good story and writing to pass an exam. I’ve added a few different styles since then, but that was a big step in my learning to be a writer.

What’s your indulgence?

Food. My favourite indulgence is a meal of really tasty, good-quality ingredients, well prepared and cooked to perfection. It doesn’t have to be large, it’s not about quantity!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I really wish I didn’t put things off when I know I’ve got to do it. But writers are the best procrastinators in the world, so maybe it’s an occupational hazard.

Where are you next going on holiday?

We’re renting a cottage in Devon for a week. We’ve been touring parts of Wales for the last few