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.
John Brown in therapy: an interview
John Savage: ‘I won’t talk more about what happened that winter in Moscow. It’s between me, the Office and – I suppose the Russians know the whole story. Moscow was worse for Clare than it was for me. She suffered most. Obviously. She’s dead. I’m alive.’
Resources for writers
Resources for writers on this post include how to write articles and blogs; how to write a novel; dealing with rejection; scenes, sequels and cliff-hangers; editing as you go along – or not – and a selection of writing courses for you to try.
Russia’s war on Ukraine: what’s happening?
Russia’s war on Ukraine has failed on most fronts. But Russian President Putin continues to slaughter vast numbers of his own troops, and Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, in the hope of a military breakthrough. That could yet happen. The top task for countries supporting Ukraine must be to maintain unity for weeks, months or years to come. This will be a challenge.
Istanbul thriller “Palladium” published
My Istanbul thriller “Palladium” was published on 17 May. I’m delighted with the launch, including readings, interviews and articles.
Slow publishing: a case study
Slow publishing is not necessarily bad publishing. Let’s look at how a Russian banker’s murder in 1993 and the Gezi Park protests of 2013 led to publication of my international thriller “Palladium” in 2022.
Will Elif Mutlu discover the mysterious “Palladium”?
As archaeology professor Elif Mutlu races against time to complete research at the site of Arzu Pasha’s smart new “Heart of Istanbul” mall, rumours swirl that Elif will discover the Palladium itself. An exclusive interview by Misty Anderson.
Book covers: a “how to” guide
Book covers sell books. But how do you find the best designer? And how to make sure the cover is right for the book? An illustrated example.
Russian misinformation: the war in Ukraine
Russian misinformation about Ukraine obeys key rules. First: never admit to anything. Second: lying to mislead your enemy is legitimate.
PALLADIUM an Istanbul thriller
“Palladium” is a full-blooded, white-knuckle thriller set in Istanbul, meeting-place of Europe and Asia. Do you like thrillers? Try this.
Palladium begins like this:
The Janissary warrior, Yusuf Ali-Bey, had triumphed in countless battles. He had slain numberless foes.
He had never known horror such as this.
My readings in March and May 2022
I am delighted to announce three talks and readings on 28, 29 and 31 March in Salzburg, Innsbruck and Graz; and three more in Vienna from 23-26 May. You can sign up now for four of the events.
Horilka – a great (small) way to support Ukraine
Horilka is to vodka as Scotch is to whisky – a unique national take on a spirit. It’s time to try the triple-distilled Ukrainian brew.
The Inimitable Jeeves – PG Wodehouse
“The Inimitable Jeeves” is a corking collection of absurd and entertaining tales focused on betting and love. Recommended.
Reverse conspiracy theories and Ukraine
Reverse conspiracy theories are when instead of blaming shadowy forces for the ills of the world, people blame themselves or their governments for atrocities committed by others.
Russia-Ukraine war explainer
Several people have asked about why the Russia-Ukraine war is happening. Here is some background context and history.
Writing ideas: the inside story
Writing ideas: where ideas come from is one of the most mysterious elements of writing a novel. Some examples help explain the process.
Russia in turmoil: Pyongyang, ballistic missiles and Gorby
Russia in turmoil: a short story set in the Moscow of the early 1990s.
“Ulysses” by James Joyce
“Ulysses” by James Joyce: yes, it’s a masterpiece. Yes, you can read it. No, you don’t need to be afraid of it. Some lovely quotes show why not.
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