Name: Marinella Padula Title: Writer and Editor at Large for the Deck of Secrets Series

Alias(es): sometimes confused with Michelle Matthews - all brunettes look and sound the same to some people.  Toyed with the idea of using Juan Pablo Manteetles as a nom de plume.

Known associates: her evil twin, or is that her good twin?

Regular haunts: The Book Grocer (for books she doesn't need but can't help buying), Mediterraneo supermarket (for Italo-essentials), Gills Diner (for kick-ass antipasto).

Last sighted at: Añada, perched precariously on a stool, perusing the tapas.

Current mission: wishing Flight of the Conchords would tour Melbourne, hoping Peep Show: Series 5 will be screened soon, praying that the baby Jeebus will send her a Wii as bowling is the only computer game she’s ever beaten anyone at.

Other activities: Food columnist for The Leader Newspaper group; author of the Herald-Sun Sunday Magazine’s weekly Bar None column.

Quote: In the future, everyone will have 15 minutes of privacy.

Informants contact: marinella@shoppingsecrets.com