One of the most eclectic annual gatherings of authors and readers takes place in the grand surroundings of Cliveden House at Taplow, Bucks. The venue, famous for its part in the Profumo scandal, is still making the literary headlines bringing together an unusual mix of star writers and other luminaries with a unique life experience to share. This year’s offering was a must, particularly for historians with the likes of Mary Beard and Simon Schama making appearances. For my part, I think 2015 Booker Prize winner, Marlon James made the most memorable contribution. James’s winning work, A Brief History of Seven Killings about the attempted assasination of Bob Marley in 1976 is a stand out read, not least because it is one of the best examples of how the genres of historical epic and contemporary thriller can be combined without one theme compromising the other. I couldn’t resist asking him for some tips about how to do it. I also got the chance to meet Sir Alex Younger, former Head of MI6 and General David Petreus former Director of the CIA, both in the process of reinventing themselves as notable authors. I asked them for some story ideas but understandably they weren’t telling…
