I can't whistle. It's one of my biggest disappointments in life because there just seems to be no way for me to learn. I'm genetically programmed not to be a whistler.
Alex Blackmore
I realised recently that I'm an early riser. Hangovers and commuting fear used to keep me pinned in bed as long as possible. Now, I like getting up and putting coffee on while the world is still and dark.
My godfather was the cartoonist Ronald Searle. Among his creations were the schoolgirls of St Trinians - my inspirations during my schooldays.
I'm a bit of a dreamer but also very driven. It's a combination that can unnerve people and/or lead them to underestimate you. Both of which can be useful.
I used to DJ. Well, ok, I had decks in my room through my 20s and irritated my housemates at the time with clanging drum n bass mixes. I never managed an audience of more than four (not counting the irate neighbours).
I still love music. It adds an extra dimension to every day life. My tastes are pretty eclectic, I love discovering new sounds more than anything.
I used to be painfully shy. An excitement for life and interest in other people has overcome this to a great extent but speaking in front of people still makes my toes curl with embarrassment (which makes book readings hard...)
I love notebooks - I can't stop buying them. I definitely don't need any more but a lemon yellow leather or an Art Deco print - I can't resist.
Blackmore is a pen name. It's my great grandmother's surname on my father's side. Rumour has it that there is a link to R. D. Blackmore of Lorna Doone fame, but no one has done our family tree properly so a rumour it remains.
I love beetroot. Beetroot can do no wrong. Anchovies on the other hand...
Killing Eva by Alex Blackmore is published by No Exit Press, Paperback £7.99 and ebook