Ideas are infinite. Writers are hardwired to think that way. We keep it fresh by using new people, mixing character types and putting them in different settings. It's always the first book all over again. There are 88 keys on the piano, but you can make infinite music from those keys.

[on romance novels] They're not just about naked pirates, although what's wrong with a naked pirate now and again?

It's up to parents to not only allow but encourage reading fun books. People tend to push books that are good for you, like broccoli instead of ice cream.

[on being a writer) If you don't love it, I don't know why you would do it, because it's very hard work. It is also solitary work - your butt is in the chair for many hours a day.

Read what you write. If it doesn't entertain you, it's not going to entertain anyone else.