‘As an unpublished author, it is hard to hear people say ‘keep going’ (and I hear this ALL the time!!). But if you stop writing, then that’s inevitable failure. And if you keep going, there’s more chance of success.’

‘I don’t write books with the intent of sending a message – if you write a great story there will be themes and ideas that shine through naturally.’

‘Readers want to be swept away. They want characters (like the overly familiar tuk-tuk driver who may or may not have kidnapped you), details (what did that fermented yak milk taste like?), and above all a story. With tension. And humour. And possibly mild digestive distress.’