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.
Arvon writing courses review: fun and inspiration at The Hurst, Shropshire
Arvon writing courses review: why the Arvon foundation offers some of the world’s top writing courses and how they can help you.
Skyros writing courses
Skyros writing courses: heaven under the Greek sun. For stimulating company, great teaching and wonderful weather, Skyros is unbeatable.
Paper or computer? Which is better for fiction?
Paper or computer? Should you use a computer or pen and paper to write fiction? How about if you are writing the first draft of your novel?
Writing prompts: 5 sources of inspiration for your stories
Four top sources of writing prompts for your fiction. Where to find story ideas and inspiration for novels and short stories.
Writing about writing
Writing about writing: studying great writers and focusing on technique can both help you write better fiction. We can learn from others.
Jeeves in the Offing by PG Wodehouse
“Jeeves in the Offing” – a hilarious masterpiece by PG Wodehouse: 15 hilarious quotations and 8 examples of peculiar Wodehouse vocabulary.
When to visit the Vienna Central Cemetery
When to visit the Vienna Central Cemetery? It is one of the great sights of the city. Explore the old Jewish cemetery, the mausoleums and more
The perfect martini
The perfect martini can be found in Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, “Casino Royale”. I’ve been drinking them for years, with success.
Literary quiz: “I’m Trudi and I’m irresponsible” and more
Literary quiz: an introduction to the quotations on this blog – you can find hundreds of literary quotes here.
What are Russians like? A visit to Vladivostok
What are Russians like? A 1994 visit to Vladivostok revealed the dark side of a Russia in turmoil after the collapse of communism.
Austria smoking laws: When smoking in cafes was a Viennese speciality
Austria smoking laws: until 1 November 2019, smoking was allowed in bars and restaurants in Vienna. I published this in September 2018. I can claim zero
The 3 best Vienna cafes? Are lists like this any good? In this case, yes.
The 3 best Vienna cafes may or may not include the Bräunerhof, the Cafe Central and Hawelka. But it’s a selection worth testing out.
Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon: Avenue of the Heroes
My 1979 visit to Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon left a vivid image of national symbols – some of them strangely Soviet.
Hitchhiking around the USA: The Americans: leaving New York
Hitchhiking around the USA has lost its mojo. When I did it in 1979 it changed me and left me with a profound love of country and people.
Thrillers for reading groups and book clubs
Looking for thrillers for reading groups and book clubs? Do yo need some questions to encourage a lively discussion? Try “Blood Summit”.
The best cities on earth
The best cities on earth are hard to judge. Different surveys can produce radically different results. Here are some reasons why.
How women think? Is “Prep” realistic?
How women think: Curtis Sittenfeld’s novel “Prep” drove me crazy. The idea Lee Fiora is a realistic depiction of a teenage girl is terrifying
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