'You know what, your story is interesting. It would make a great book,' American author, Matt Crisci told me. 'Um, no thanks,' I replied, rather bluntly. One year later, reunited at the Dublin Writers Conference, Matt said: "I'll ask once more, and if the answer is still no, then I'll never ask you again." My answer surprised us both. "Okay, I'm ready." By the end of the conference we were sat in a plush hotel having lunch and plotting chapters. Matt was riveted, even said,