One minute with: Conn Iggulden, historical novelist

Iggulden says: 'I admire skills I don't have on the whole'

Where are you now and what can you see?

In my office at home, facing blue skies I can't see because of a huge computer screen. It's possible there is a metaphor in there, somewhere.

What are you currently reading?

The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins. It was second to one of mine in the Book of Year competition in 2007. It's about time I read it. So far, little sex and adventure.

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

George McDonald Fraser, because his character of Flashman is wonderful: history, adventure, humour and roguishness.

Describe the room where you write

An attic with books on floor-to-ceiling shelves, two computers (both with huge screens), two comfortable chairs and one very uncomfortable one. There are ashtrays and coffee cups everywhere.

Which fictional character most resembles you?

As much as I'd like to say Flashman, it's probably Horatio Hornblower, a man never certain of his own abilities.

Who is your hero/ heroine from outside literature?

I admire skills I don't have on the whole, so the explorer Richard Burton, or the military genius Clive of India.

Conn Iggulden's new novel is 'Stormbird' (Michael Joseph)