I think one of the great disasters (in military history) is the way that the Second World War has become the defining reference point for every crisis and every conflict.

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.

To begin impatiently is the worst mistake a writer can make

When my first novel was published, I went in great excitement round bookshops in central London to see if they had stocked it.

I am not someone who believes I am going to find a historical scoop.

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.