The terrifying moment when the Debut Dagger shortlisters appeared in full technicolour on the screen...

The slight disappointment at not winning was offset by the huge relief of not having to navigate the stage without falling over in my new shoes.

My publisher, HQ, were fantastic and were there in force to cheer for me, and to buy champagne even though I didn't win.

My partner, Rob, also went above and beyond by purchasing the internet's finest 100% polyester DJ - at the risk of being consumed by flames if he went too near any candles.

The winner was Mark Brandi. Can't wait to read his book, which will be published next year.

A year since I first met my wonderful agent, and I was back in York, being inspired to plot using LOTS of Post It notes. (And gin. Apparently. It's official.)

Back home and having a sort out, I was alarmed to discover these early efforts from my childhood. I was clearly destined for crime writing or serial killing. (No comments on the fact that my first career was in law...)

Minnie Minx helps with the first draft of DONOR CHILD.

And Starsky models my publisher's bag...

And reads through a draft with me. He looks a little sleepier than I'd hoped.

And checks a contract - I'm not absolutely sure he's concentrating here.

My friend and chief CSI advisor, Jo, helped authors enjoy a true crime scene experience...

Back home, Starsky helped me research murder locations in the Peak District.

Oh, the joy of sticking on that "Author" badge! Here I am with my agent, Diana, and her other HarperCollins authors, Angela Clarke and Claire McGowan. (Claire originally passed me on to Diana at the Festival of Writing in York last year.)

Quite a lot of wine and cocktails were consumed.

The aftermath of a night with my chief advisers, Jo and Ian, detective and CSI.

It's important to have good relationships with the police.