The truth is, as you know, people like us look at what's happening in the world, and then we project it forward. We think, 'If I know A and B, then I've got to know that C and D are coming,' and that's kind of the way it's been with my fiction.

Journalists couldn't do their jobs overseas without taking risks, and the same is true for diplomats and intelligence officers.

Europeans don't like to talk about intelligence, and they often pretend their countries don't spy.

We have a complicated intelligence relationship with France. We have a complicated intelligence relationship with other - with other allies.

Challenge is the pathway to engagement and progress in our lives. But not all challenges are created equal. Some challenges make us feel alive, engaged, connected, and fulfilled. Others simply overwhelm us. Knowing the difference as you set bigger and bolder challenges for yourself is critical to your sanity, success, and satisfaction.

The only thing I have learnt over the years is that if you enjoy your work and put in the best efforts, it will show. If you follow this process, things work out. But if you go chasing a formula, success will elude you.

Remember, it isn't the dreamers who have good lives - it's the doers. Remember also what I call the three Ps of success: passion, planning, and perseverance.

To burn always with this hard, gem-like flame, to maintain this ecstasy, is success in life.