I write. I play computer games. I watch movies.

I write. I play computer games. I watch movies.

3)How have your hobbies assisted you in your work?

I'm not sure they have. But then its difficult to assess. There is no output without input, so I guess watching movies gives me a feel for what kind of storytelling appeals to modern audiences.

4)You've mentioned previously how you hate being interviewed by people who don't know anything about your work, when you consider the wide range of things possible in the Science-Fiction/Fantasy genre. How would you personally define your work against other authors?

I don't try to define it. My style was influenced by Louis Lamour, Tolkien, Henry Kuttner, Fritz Leiber and Robert E Howard. I like the spartan style of story telling, keeping descriptive prose to a minimum, and making the reader work a little. I rarely read now - though I've just started Dawnthief by James Barclay, which I'm enjoying immensely.

5)When you're in a book shop do you ever have a peak to see who's browsing your work and if so how often are you recognised?

The short answer is no. Occasionally I see someone pick up a book of mine. If they walk with it to the cash desk I usually ask them if they want me to sign it. I love the looks of surprise on their faces.

6)If someone was to enter a shop where you were, how would you persuade them to consider one of your novels over someone else (not assuming that the Doorman in you comes out) and how would you persuade them that your work is different to other authors?

I wouldn't. Most authors work bloody hard to finish a novel. They deserve an even playing field when it comes to the shelves.

7)With White Wolf being rumoured to contain the first published map of the Drenai world did you initially have a rough design for your world or just make it up as you went along? In addition to this is there any truth in the rumour and have you based it upon any fan's map that's available?