At a desk I bought when I was 25. I've written all my published novels sitting at this desk and I'm superstitiously attached to it. We'll forget I've written some truly awful stuff while sitting at this same desk!
2) What is the first book you remember reading?
Before I started school, my mother used to take me to the children's section of our local public library and leave me there while she did her shopping. I worked my way through the adventures of Orlando the Marmalade Cat, mostly looking at the lovely illustrations, but trying to read the words, too.
3) Do you have a favourite literary character?
Yes, Henry Tilney in Northanger Abbey. Henry is witty, charming, kind, brave, romantic and lots of fun.
4) Is there a book by an another author that you wish you had written?
I'd love to be able to write a novel as wonderful as Great Expectations, my all-time favourite read.
5) What's the best advice you have ever received?
Choose your rut carefully because you'll be in it for a long time. I've been in a romantic novel rut all my writing life, but luckily I'm very happy there and have no desire to climb out of it.
6) What's the worst advice you have ever received?
Never write about twins - readers get confused.
7) What are you currently reading?
Held Up by Christopher Radmann.
8) Who is your hero or heroine?
Violette Szabo, the heroine of the French Resistance who died in Ravensbruck at the age of 23 - what a waste.
9) Where are you happiest?
When walking along the Devon coastline.
10) Who would be at your dream dinner party (can be living or dead)?
It would be just me and Mr Richard Armitage!
More about Margaret James .
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