I began writing at a young age (I made my first submission to a publisher at the tender age of 10) and was inspired by some of the more wonderous stories I read as a child. I was particularly inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and his ability to create such a vivid, colourful world of wonders, as did the works of Roald Dahl.
Since then, my writing and reading tastes have expanded (though I still count 'The Lord of the RIngs' as my favourite book of all time). I write in an ecclectic range of genres and styles. My debut novel is a sci-fi mystery thriller series whilst my second novel is a contemporary rural drama. I also dabble in poetry, childrens stories, horror, crime and fantasy (I have just finished my first screenplay, as well). I have recently enjoyed the works of Conn Iggulden, Terry Nation and Dan Brown but I would happily read anything that grabs my attention.
The most important aspect of writing (for me, at least) is the ability to create. Whether it's a mystical world of magic or a political murder thriller, I enjoy creating complex characters and complex situations for them to struggle through. Everything else - including what category the story is bounded to - is just a secondary consideration.