Dear Bernard, May I ask, as you are an author of a huge portfolio of work at this stage, if you’ve ever struggled when writing a novel, as in, if you’ve reached a point where your initial excitement has blunted somewhat and you’re starting to feel less enthusiastic about the project? If so, what do you do? Have you ever abandoned a novel, for example, or do you always stubbornly see it through? I had my first novel published last April, and I am not struggling as such with the second, just slightly anxious that it is not falling together as fast as I had visualised. Any tips on how to keep spirits up (and focus) whenever the shadows of doubt loom? Your advice on this would be massively appreciated. Many thanks, Paul Reid, Co. Cork.