One Minute With: Jojo Moyes, romantic novelist

Where are you now and what can you see?

 In my office in Saffron Walden. From my window I can see the pub opposite. I love watching people go in and out probably more than is healthy.

What are you currently reading?

Jonathan Tropper's 'One Last Thing Before I Go'.

Choose a favourite author and say why you admire her/him

Michael Chabon. Each book has a completely original tone, and his prose has such elegant rhythms that it makes me want to read it aloud in the accent of a Southern preacher.

Describe the room where you usually write

It's a Georgian room. There is a huge desk, cluttered with cups and piles of paper and all sorts of detritus. The best thing is being above a café, where they are happy to bring tea and slices of cake.

Which fictional character most resembles you?

Velvet Brown of 'National Velvet'. I'm not the most robust or naturally talented, but I'm tenacious.

Who is your hero/heroine from outside literature?

I'm in awe of Claire Lomas, who was left quadriplegic after a riding accident and is doing amazing things for charity. And she does it with a smile.

Jojo Moyes is a judge for the Women's Prize for Fiction. 'The Girl You Left Behind' is published by Penguin