The duty of a historian is simply to understand and then convey that understanding, no more than that.
From Antony Beevor
When my first novel was published, I went in great excitement round bookshops in central London to see if they had stocked it.
When I was younger I used to get my best writing done at night, but now it has to be during the day. I usually finish work at half past seven, then go back to the house to open a bottle of wine, have dinner, and then read or watch television.
To begin impatiently is the worst mistake a writer can make.
I expect the worst both from reviewers and sales and then, with any luck, I may be proved wrong.
The British bombing of Caen beginning on D-Day in particular was stupid, counter-productive and above all very close to a war crime.
I joined the Army in 1965 and served with the 11th Hussars, which I loved. The regiment was so relaxed - a salute was more like a friendly wave.
It takes me three or four years to research and write each book and the individual stories stay with you for a long time afterwards.
The great European dream was to diminish militant nationalism. We would all be happy Europeans together. But we are going to see the old monster of militant nationalism being awoken when people realise how little control their politicians have.
I feel slightly uneasy at the way historians are consulted as if history is going to repeat itself. It never does.
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