Why do you write?

To get the ideas out of my head and onto the page.  And because I enjoy it.

How do you write?

Quickly, but rarely, at home on a desktop PC in the spare room, and slowly on a pocket PC on the train to and from work.

What is your writing routine?

First, have the idea, then plot it in more detail, then draft the first few chapters in note form.  Then write a couple of chapters, and redraft the rest.  Write a couple more chapters and completely change the original idea.  Then repeat all of this until the novel finds an ending.

How would you describe your writing style?

Dry, observational, conversational, with poetic interludes.

Which writers have inspired you?

At various times: Joseph Conrad, Christopher Brookmyre, William Boyd and Carl Plummer. 

What are your favourite books, and why?

Apart from those by the writers listed above, English Passengers by Matthew Kneale for the way it tells its story (and the story it tells); I’m Not Scared by Niccolo Ammaniti, because it is a simple story, perfectly told, and not a single word is wasted.

What are your writing ambitions?

For people to enjoy reading what I have written (and maybe make enough money one day to make it a full-time job).

What advice would you give aspiring writers?

Ideas are not enough – to complete a book requires dedication and hard work.  And always have a pen and a notepad for those “I like that – I’ll use it in a book” moments that crop up every day.