Behind the Scenes with Tom Vaughan

Finish the sentence: ‘To me, literature is…’         

… forever the best way you can spend a tenner.

What’s your go-to writing soundtrack – or do you prefer silence?       

Rain sounds on Youtube to drown out my children.

What’s the last book that made you miss your stop / bedtime / reality?

‘The Last Murder at the End of the World’ by Stuart Turton

If you could co-write with any author (living or dead), who would it be?

Sue Townsend

What would your 12-year-old self think of your current job?  

He would think I should write more slasher novels as he was intensely into Point Horror.

What’s a word you overuse (and secretly love)?              

I heavily overuse characters raising an eyebrow to convey confusion/suspicion/doubt etc. I blame an upbringing on Roger-Moore-era Bond.

What book do you wish everyone would read – at least once?               

Not a book but a short story: The Lottery by Shirley Jackson – a haunting reminder not to do things simply because we always have done.

What’s the most surprising thing a fan has ever said to you? 

You look like Lee Mack – from an 8 year old. My youngest accusation to date.

What’s the best part of taking part in a live event and why do you think events like this are important?

Having a laugh with my readers isn’t just the best bit of a live event, it’s the best bit of being an author, and a constant source of inspiration.

What are you looking forward to about coming to Harrogate?

The pizzas at Stefano’s restaurant. Best in the UK. No contest.