Each week we put a Norwich resident in the hot seat and ask them 10 questions about themselves. This week we spoke with author Alex Marsh, whose The Resurrection of Frederic Debreu is about mystery, wine and chanson in rural France.

Describe Norwich in three words…

Avoid rush hour.

If you were stranded on a desert island with three others, who would you want them to be?

I'd struggle to know what to do, unexpectedly cut off from the rest of the world on this island. So I'd take Boris Johnson, David Davis and Liam Fox, who could confidently provide all the answers. I've total faith that they could create Utopia in a matter of weeks.

If you could be anyone else who would you be?

As an author, Jonathan Coe. I'm in awe of his writing, and we appear to share some interests.

How would you spend a perfect weekend in Norwich?

A browse around the Book Hive; a glass of wine with the very personable Damien at Les Garrigues. My most recent book is set in Northern France, and Damien was very patient with my persistent research queries as the story came together. Does the Bicycle Shop still host gigs? It's my idea of the ideal cosy live music venue. In my perfect weekend, John Watterson, a.k.a. Fake Thackray would be playing there – he recorded some songs pertaining to the book, and I don't think he's yet gigged in Norwich.

A good night's sleep at 38 St Giles. Then after a Sunday lie-in and breakfast, I'd do some shopping and generally potter. Norwich is a great place for pottering.

What's your mantra in life?

Take a minute or two to try to understand people.

Which song defines your life?

Cardiacs' 'A Little Man and a House', with its anxieties about people shouting at you when you do something wrong.

What's your biggest fear?

Doing things wrong.

Would you rather spend a night in front of the telly or a night out in the city?

The city. I moved to the rural bit fifteen years ago because I was getting a bit old for all that; now going out in the city makes me feel young.

What one thing could you never be without?

I get jittery if I don't have regular access to a nice, hot bath.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I'd always buy a first class ticket.

• If you'd like to take part in this feature, email courtney.pochin@archant.co.uk