New Posts
“Luxury Spa”: an Austrian Hotel Story
When Ms N, the world’s most mischievous hotel manager, visits a well-being spa high in the Austrian Alps, she finds a host of knotty problems to solve.
Book tour: My #AustroScottishBookTour
What’s a book tour really like? My January 2025 tour around Austria and Scotland was full of sofa-beds, train rides and kindness.
My upcoming talks and a writing course
Book talks and courses are always in preparation. A 10% discount is now available. This post was updated in mid-May 2025.
My writing course on Lesbos
I am leading a writing course on the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos from 6-13 September 2025. 10% off until 25 August!
Terrorism: How to tackle it
Terrorism: you can’t stop it, despite rhetoric about a ‘war on terror’. But you can reduce its impact through training, training and training
How to survive a crisis
All of us sometimes face a crisis. It’s important to be prepared – including knowing when to act, and when to do nothing. When to
Carry on, Jeeves: a centenary looms
“Carry on, Jeeves” is the PG Wodehouse book where Jeeves is introduced, including rare physical descriptions of the world’s most famous butler
How to promote a book
How to promote a book? Let’s run through events since Bristol University Press published “Lessons in Diplomacy: Politics, Power and Parties” on 24 September 2024.
Chagos Islands: an explainer
The Chagos Islands are a problem left over by history. A planned transfer of sovereignty to Mauritius is a step forward. But challenges remain.
LESSONS IN DIPLOMACY: LATEST EVENTS (UPDATED)
Following publication of Lessons in Diplomacy, on 24 September, I have several new events coming up. I’m grateful to all who have invited me, and
Welsh border wall rises
Welsh border wall takes shape as Welsh Secret Service plans impenetrable barrier along entire, 160-mile length of English frontier.
How to Know People: Four Young Russians
“How to Know People” is Chapter 10 of my book “Lessons in Diplomacy: Politics, Power and Parties”. Here is one of the stories it contains.
How to become an ambassador
How to become an ambassador, How to survive a crisis, and How to handle politicians are all chapters in Lessons in Diplomacy – plus 13
Lessons in Diplomacy: Testimonials!
What do conservationist Jane Goodall, Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, author and academic Tom Fletcher and writer and ex-politician
How to write characters: Peter James
How to write characters is a perennial problem for authors. Crime writer Peter James delivers a masterclass in vivid pen-portraits.
Indexers: unsung heroes
Indexers can make or break a book. “Lessons in Diplomacy” has a terrific index, done by a top professional. What lessons can you learn?
PG Wodehouse books: a feast of fun
Looking for PG Wodehouse books? Here are some side-splitting suggestions for both experienced Wodehouse lovers and novices.
The Skinheads of Buchenwald
Being confronted by a gang of skinheads before a visit to Buchenwald amplified the horror of the camp. It was also a reminder of how the fragmentation of 21st century media strengthens the case for making internet platforms responsible for the material they transmit.
The perfect Pimm’s
We all want a perfect Pimm’s. But how do you make one? Watch a video of Antonio, the best butler in the world, giving a step-by-step guide.
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