I thought what better way to finish the #AuthorTakeOver than with an exclusive interview with Hannah, the lady of the hour!
Hey Hannah! How are you today? How’s Tom? How’s Elizabeth?
I’m feeling ok having just returned from staying with my parents in France. They adore Elizabeth and it’s been relaxing after all the trauma of the last month or so. I haven’t seen Tom as he’s still away. Elizabeth is getting to that stage of adorableness she walks around talking to herself and gives the best cuddles.
Oh, bless! It has been so lovely seeing her grow up in the books! And who doesn’t love cuddles!! How did you start the day today?
As always with a cuddle with my little girl. I still can’t believe what might have happened so I’m treasuring every moment. As usual we had breakfast together before Janet, the nanny, arrived although I’m not sure how long she’ll stay now. My study overlooks the garden and I am loving listening to the two of them chatting and playing together.
I hope Janet does stick around for you! If you had to describe yourself in 3 words, what would you say?
Determined, resilient, loyal.
Yes! I would definitely agree with those words! You really like to give me a scare, how do you always find yourself in the midst of trouble?
Sometimes I scare myself! But seriously I don’t go looking for trouble. However it does seem to find me since I started freelancing for The News last year (1993). The thing is, I want to help people who have no voice and find themselves in terrible situations. I hope that doesn’t make me sound like some crusading do-gooder. I’m not. However sometimes my investigations lead to confronting people who are prepared to use violence to get their own way.
After a hectic day at the News, or investigating, how do you unwind fo the day, if you even get a chance these days?
After I’ve put Elizabeth to bed and read her a story, I’m left to my own devices. I do like a glass or two of wine in the evening. I don’t have many friends – my social life became more restricted since having Elizabeth – but it’s great to visit David and Linda living nearby. DI Claudia Turner – I’m not sure we’re friends exactly but I do enjoy her company when she’s off-duty – sometimes drops by for a chat especially if we’re both investigating the same case. I can always tell when she wants to pick my brains as she brings a bottle of Chablis, my favourite. Otherwise, I watch some TV, read or carry on working.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what 3 things would you take with you?
Well, I’m assuming I can’t take Elizabeth? So masses of sun cream as I’d hate to have rough leathery skin; a piano which I could learn to play and a huge supply of paper, paints and pencils – that does count as one, right?
Ok, I will allow it! Mainly so I can see what you would come up with! If you could have any talent which one would you want and why?
Maybe you’ve guessed from the answer above – I’d love to be able to play the piano but I’m really not musical at all although I love listening to it. I don’t think I’d be able to play an instrument like a violin or trumpet but with the piano, the notes are there and eventually I might work out how to play a recognisable tune.
Do you have a favourite song, what is it and why?
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. I just adore her voice – spine-tingling – and I loved her in “The Bodyguard”.
It is such a powerful song, I can see why you chose it! It’s Halloween who are you dressing up as?
That’s easy – Morticia from The Addams Family. I used to love that programme as a child.
That is so spooky, Mavis from my last takeover said the exact same character!!!! Final question, do you have a favourite joke?
In a word no. I can never remember the punchlines.
It has been an absolute blast getting to know you Hannah, thank you so much for taking your time out your day to speak to me!! I have had so much fun!
Until next time xxx
carhicks says
I enjoy character interviews. This one was great. It has me trying to figure out how to squeeze this series in.
Zoé says
Lol I am sure you can find a way ?