As visitors to this probably-too-diverse website will know, I set it up in order to try to establish myself as a novelist rather than a cook. I still love cooking and food and why should I mind if people buy my novels thinking they are cookbooks (believe me, it has happened!)? But I no longer write cookery (though my publishers and agent I am sure would prefer I capitalised on the success I had and forgot about fiction) and am thrilled that my fourth novel, Choral Society, is now out.

But as I am as yet much better known as a cook, restaurateur and food writer than a novelist, I thought the site had better also have links to my other activities, past and present, with a blog, and the opportunity for you to tell me what you think. Of course I’d prefer unmitigated praise but I guess my novels will get better if you tell me the truth!

My first novel, Leaving Patrick , appeared in 1995, followed by Sisters in 2001, and A Lovesome Thing in 2004, all published by Penguin.  A Lovesome Thing was republished as the Gardener by Transita, but is now also out of print. I’ve got a few copies if anyone wants one for a fiver.  For details see novels  page.