About me
I’m Leigh Turner, writer, inspirational speaker, former ambassador. Thanks for visiting.
My latest books include “Lessons in Diplomacy: Politics, Power and Parties” and “Seven More Hotel Stories”. All my fiction, including the Hotel Stories, is available on Kindle Unlimited.
Recent talks and interviews have included the London Diplomacy Ball, Kings College London, CNN, Sky News, the BBC and the University of Miami.
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Latest Articles
My 2026 writing course on Lesbos
I’m leading a writing course on the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos from 5-12 September 2026.
Who’s afraid of autocracy?
“Mr Nobody against Putin” and “The Wave” highlight the seductive danger of autocracy, and why we should never assume “it couldn’t happen here”.
Never by Ken Follett
“Never”, by master thriller-writer Ken Follett, starts slow but the last 20% is excellent as humanity careers towards self-annihilation. Plus: great Follett epigrams.
Classic thrillers and where to find them
We all long for a cracking thriller. But where to find them? Here are some classic thrillers, suggested by me and my friend Paul.
Writing style: a bizarre labyrinth
A clutch of ancient papers reveals complexity and charm in the writing style of a university administration. A model of clarity and humanity.
The Rosie Project
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion is a near-perfect, laugh-out-loud comedy. Yet few people in the UK seem to have heard of it.
“Seven More Hotel Stories” – Volume 2
“Seven More Hotel Stories” is the second volume of tales starring the world’s most glamorous, brilliant and mischievous hotel manager, referred to as Ms N to protect her anonymity.
Pleasure Pathways
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