One Minute With: Dorothy Koomson, novelist

Koomson says: 'I speak to people with incredible stories to tell. I really admire them: they have often endured horrible things but are still good people.'

Where are you know and what can you see?

I'm in my kitchen, and I can see the TV – which is on, but shouldn't be – and the garden. I live near the sea in Brighton. When the sun shines, it's the best place in the world.

What are you currently reading?

The last novel I finished was 'One Day' by David Nicholls: a good idea, and very well written.

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

Terry McMillan: she can write very emotional novels without being too sentimental.

Describe the room where you usually write

In bed, with my laptop... My poor husband has to put up with the light on in the middle of the light.

Which fictional character most resembles you?

I find elements of myself in many characters... I went through a Bridget Jones phase, weighing myself every day. I don't do that any more!

Who is your hero or heroine from outside literature?

This might sound sycophantic, but because of the novels I write - emotional thrillers – I speak to people with incredible stories to tell. I really admire them: they have often endured horrible things but are still good people.

Dorothy Koomson's latest novel is 'The Rose Petal Beach' (Quercus); an ITV adaptation of her 'The Ice Cream Girls' begins on 19 April