Breughel and the Bard
We’re currently in Vienna, where my time is split between two activities: sheltering from the wind in the city’s magnificent museums, and pursuing my Shakespeare… Read More »Breughel and the Bard
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Flamingo Fancy
When was the last time you reached for the handle of your coffee cup and grasped thin air instead? It’s probably never happened, because by… Read More »Flamingo Fancy
Voltaire and the Vaccines
In 1734, Voltaire’s Lettres Philosophiques were published, in the eleventh of which he writes of the ‘mad and dangerous English, who inject smallpox into their… Read More »Voltaire and the Vaccines
Brave or reckless?
You’re in a car at night on a narrow, winding country road which is unfamilar to you, when you get the impression you’re being followed.… Read More »Brave or reckless?
The Glamour Inside
Magali composed herself, taking her time to find the right formulation. ‘It’s just that I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the way you are.’ ‘Really? How… Read More »The Glamour Inside
The Tragedy of the Judge
One person who gets an occasional mention in my novels is the juge d’instruction (investigating judge or examining magistrate). Being more concerned with the search… Read More »The Tragedy of the Judge
A Stunning Secret
For at least two reasons, the Cosquer Cave near Marseille is amazing – firstly for what’s in it, secondly for the story of its discovery.… Read More »A Stunning Secret
Provence, Sweet and Deadly
“Such is the life of man – a few joys soon wiped out by unforgettable pain.” “Everyone knew it was impossible. Then along came an… Read More »Provence, Sweet and Deadly
The Walks of Provence
There’s nothing wrong with Nantes. We lived there for ten years and survived. But if you enjoy a good country ramble of the up hill… Read More »The Walks of Provence
Death of the Gypsy Woman
I used to smoke. Ten years, maybe, when I was young, until I decided enough was enough. As I recall, I tried a number of… Read More »Death of the Gypsy Woman