ME AND MY MONEY: ARLENE HUNT, crime writer

Are you a saver or a spender?

Both I would say, I try to save some money every month.

Do you shop around for better value?

I do.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

I don’t make extravagant purchases.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

The first house I bought on the South Circular Road in Dublin.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

No. But if I had a large family with younger children I might consider it.

Do you haggle over prices?

For larger items, sure.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

A little, I would be more frugal, but I was never a wild spender to begin with. I’m a pretty low-key person.

Do you invest in shares?

No.

Cash or card?

Cash, always.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

I bought Brian McGilloway's new book, The Rising, today and, yes, I imagine it will be excellent value for money.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Yes. I save all two-euro coins I find in my change and keep them in a small metal box. The collection paid for a rather nice hotel in Barcelona last year. It’s a way of saving without even noticing really and it adds up quite quickly.

Have you ever lost money?

I was robbed once, that was unpleasant,

Are you a gambler and if so, have you ever had a big win?

I don’t really gamble. Although I did win €20 on a horse on Saint Patricks Day.

Is money important to you?

Yes. I have been poor. I do not recommend it.

How much money do you have on you now?

€21

Arlene Hunt is a crime writer. Her latest book, Blood Money, was published by Hachette in March