“Yeah, I do love a good dog,” Sparks admits. While writing The Lucky One, “Rex was lying there at my feet. I have five dogs in my house, but one of them is a Shih Tzu. It’s more like a cat.

"Rex is a German Shepherd – they watch you. They’re just so curious. They’re highly intelligent. What they want is to do something for you – whether it’s working or playing – they want interaction with you. It can drive you a little crazy at times when you’re busy, but they’re great reminders that there’s more to life than work."