I realised early on that being an author is a hugely misunderstood job.

It is through our extended family that we first learn to compromise and come to an understanding that even if we don't always agree about things we can still love and look out for each other.

I always thought that bagels and lox was my soul food, but it turns out it's sushi.

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.

I jealously guard my research time and I love fully immersing myself in those dusty old books and papers. It's one of the most enjoyable parts of my job.

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

I believe the era of the militant lady is back.

Without archives many stories of real people would be lost, and along with those stories, vital clues that allow us to reflect and interpret our lives today.

Research material can turn up anywhere - in a dusty old letter in an archive, a journal or some old photographs you find in a charity shop.

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

Books have a vital place in our culture. They are the source of ideas, of stories that engage and stretch the imagination and most importantly, inspire.

A MOTHER is aMentor, who Over looks all your faults, a Trainer/Teacher, whoHaven't ceased in praying for you, anEndless counselor, sheRevere because she Reliable.

Love in the service of self is greed in disguise.

Sometimes, very occasionally, you do your best boxing with your mouth.

I'm game for anything fun.

Penetration seems a kind of inspiration; it gives me an idea of prophecy.

I dare say the men would fight very well if properly officered, although they are an exceedingly dirty and nasty people.

People want to build musicians into mythical beings.

I've met every freak in the business.

The art of printing secures us against the retrogradation of reason and information.

As you all know, I'm kind of a perfectionist.