New Posts
Writing Course 2026: “How to write and publish a novel”
I’m leading a writing course on the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos from 5-12 September 2026. A few places still available!
Lessons in Diplomacy Review in H-Diplo
I was delighted recently to see a review of my book “Lessons in Diplomacy: Politics, Power and Parties” in H-Diplo.
Sex, alcohol, people, knowledge: what makes you happy?
What makes you happy? ‘m in a high-speed train holding an empty paper cup. What lessons can this teach us about making ourselves happier?
10 rules on how to work better
“10 rules on how to work better”: what does it mean? A comment on an earlier blog showcases the best of the Internet – or seems to.
John Connolly’s Charlie Parker series: why you should read them
The “Charlie Parker” series by John Connolly is unique. Find out why you should read them and where you should start.
Vienna unfriendly? San Francisco a hell-hole?
Is Vienna unfriendly? A dig into the statistics on which a media report is based shows that you should be careful in interpreting surveys.
“He knew he was right”: gender and obstinacy
“He Knew He Was Right” shows Anthony Trollope is an outstanding writer on relationships. His 1869 lessons on gender remain 100% relevant.
Cunard literary cruise: luxurious literature
Our Cunard Literary Cruise was perfect, both as a cultural experience and a glorious exercise in pampering. I’d do it again like a shot.
Goldfinger by Ian Fleming
Ian Fleming’s Goldfinger: a time capsule of 1950s sexism and homophobia that also highlights some of Bond’s positive qualities. 14 quotes.
Flash fiction: “Taxi to London”
Flash fiction: a complete short story. Is it a bit autobiographical? What do you think? Someone said: ‘It must have been good to get that out of your system’.
Story ideas: where to get them
Five great ways you can turn your own experience – whatever it is – into storylines, story ideas and writing prompts.
Third Man trivia: 4 astonishing facts about the movie
Third Man trivia: did you know it was nearly never made, that the ending was nearly different, or that it was nearly a romance?
Innsbruck Stadtbibliothek: A reading with Robert Pimm
My 2019 reading in the mighty Innsbruck Stadtbibliothek was one of my first from “Seven Hotel Stories” and drew a terrific crowd. What do you
“Fixing It”: a woman fights back
“Fixing It” is a complete short story about a woman who fights back against her oppressive father. Not suitable for children.
“Seven Hotel Stories” paperback now available – at last!
The paperback version of “Seven Hotel Stories” is now available – in addition to numerous individual stories – 11 so far and counting!
From Russia with Love review: Ian Fleming: a homophobic time capsule
“From Russia with Love” review: Ian Fleming’s breakthrough: a Soviet-focused romp featuring top Bond villains Rosa Klebb and Red Grant
Diamonds are Forever: “shills” and set pieces
“Diamonds are Forever” pulses with insights into America in the ’50s, and shines a dark light on everyday sexism in that era.
Uber drivers: a new artform
Uber drivers have created a startling new art form in the America of the 21st century. Want to understand Americans? Talk to Uber drivers.
Die Besten Berlin Krimis: in “Blood Summit” geht es hart zur Sache
Was sind die besten Berlin Krimis? Oder die besten Thriller über Berlin? Probieren Sie “Blood Summit” – intelligent und spannend!
Cafe Eiles: a distinguished Vienna cafe off the beaten track
Cafe Eiles: one of the great Vienna cafes – but also a Viennese cafe off the beaten track. A beautiful place for breakfast.
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