What’s the first book you remember reading as a child? The most memorable was The Hound Of The Baskervilles. One of my brothers borrowed it from the library when I had chickenpox aged about eight. I loved the story, the old-fashioned language and that I enjoyed what I understood was an adult book. Plus it stopped me scratching.

What was the book you read that made you decide to be a writer? Reading Graham Greene as a teenager made me dream of being a foreign correspondent, braving war zones. That didn’t happen but it led me towards writing, initially as editorial assistant on an office equipment magazine.

What’s your favourite first line in a book? ‘First, I got myself born.’ [Demon Copperhead] You’re off into a brilliant story with a distinctive narrative voice thanks to Barbara Kingsolver. Also, 'It was a bright cold day in April and the clocks were striking thirteen.’ [Nineteen Eighty-Four] Orwell sets out his table so well. 

Which debut publication had the most profound effect on you? City Of Bohane by Kevin Barry was inspiring. Be bold, be ambitious!  Historically, Patricia Highsmith’s Strangers On A Train already reveals a fascinating writer. Reacher’s first outing, The Killing Floor [by Lee Child], was a big statement and Tana French’s In The Woods; an exciting new voice.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up on a writing day? Try not to think too much about the state of the world, have a coffee and chat, possibly a swim, and finally to the desk with another large coffee.

What’s the first thing you do when you’ve stopped writing for the day? Tackle a few of the chores I’m trying to avoid.

In a parallel universe where you’re the tyrant leader of a dystopian civilisation, what’s the first book you’d burn? Probably Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, about burning books, and ultimately why it’s wrong. Ironic that the novel itself has been banned and censored at various times.

What’s the first piece of advice you’d offer to an aspiring novelist? Be prepared: to fail, and to get better.

The 10:12 is published by Raven Books on Thursday 29 January; main picture: Ted Allen.