Q&A: author Jo Thomas

It's ten years since your debut novel, The Oyster Catcher, was published. What have you learned about writing and the industry since then?
Gosh, ten years! It seems like yesterday and forever. I suppose the biggest thing you learn quite quickly after being published is that it's not just hard to get published, but also staying published. Just because you've had your first contract, it doesn't mean that you're set for life!

I suppose the other thing I've learnt is to trust in my own instincts, trust in what I'm doing and how I do it. I've learnt to listen to my own voice and I think that comes out in my books.

The other wonderful thing I've discovered is my friends, all other writers. We support each other and cheer each other on and commiserate with each other.

But I've also learnt not to compare yourself to anyone else. Just run your own race. Just be you. That's what makes you different from everyone else.