I suppose I was destined to be a writer, having written English compositions at school that had soared through the top marks in exams. On the day I left school I was given some special advice by my English composition teacher. She said, "Never give up your writing!" Now I have been published in twenty different languages.

My latest novel, "Garlands of Gold" set in the 17th Century world of cosmetics, is a tale of love, rivalry and heartache.