“The novel needs a skeleton plot worked out from start to finish. You do not need to hold to your plot once you have started writing; to some extent the characters can take charge. But if you allow them to wander around regardless of the original scheme the result will be wild and unconvincing. I wrote four thrillers as co-author with Andrew Osmond and one with Stephen Lamport. This requires a strict discipline if you are to save both the novel and your friendship with your literary partner, but I recommend it. You then have an inbuilt critic alongside you to help you over the awkward moments when you feel dried up and hopeless.”