BBC7

Catherine Forde lives in Glasgow with her husband and two sons. She says "I loved English in primary and secondary school, especially creative writing, and had a fantastic secondary teacher for four years, Pat Chalmers, who inspired me and pushed me and always encouraged me to write what I wanted to write. I also loved History and Music, but hated Maths because I felt dumb and useless in the class. Despite Maths I loved my schooldays. They were full of music."

When asked what made her write she says "As far back as I can remember, I was always dreaming up stories and writing poems. I always promised myself I'd write a book some day, but didn't actually start writing properly until my younger son started school and I was waiting to be called up as a supply teacher. Sick of doing more housework to keep myself busy, I sat down at the computer and I haven't stopped writing since."

Apart from reading, Catherine likes to keep fit by swimming, jogging and walking! She also plays squash and badminton when she has the chance. Catherine loves music, and will listen to almost anything except jazz.