Author Interview – Peter Barber – The Parthenon Paradox

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Peter Barber shares the experiences of his Greek life descends into chaos of legal battles, cultural clashes, and the absurdities of Greek bureaucracy in The Parthenon Paradox.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Peter Barber about his life and career, the experiences that inspired him to write his new book, The Parthenon Paradox, and his creative writing process.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I’m Peter Barber, a British author who left behind the grey skies of England for the sun-drenched chaos of Greece. My books blend humour, philosophy, and real-life experiences as an expat navigating life in a Greek village.

The Parthenon series. A Parthenon on Our Roof, A Parthenon in Pefki, and my latest release, The Parthenon Paradox: Rivers of Redemption, captures the joys, frustrations, and unexpected adventures of adapting to a culture that is as warm as it is unpredictable.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

I always loved storytelling, but it wasn’t until I moved to Greece that I realised I had something truly worth sharing. Life here is full of drama, comedy, and the occasional Greek tragedy. My Greek wife, Alex, has a way of getting us into, and out of the most incredible situations, and after years of telling friends about our adventures, I knew I had to start writing them down.

When did you take a step to start writing?

The idea for my first book, A Parthenon on Our Roof, came to me over 20 years ago. I had been fully absorbed into my new Greek family and found so many differences between my old life in England and my new one in Greece. I spent my days laughing at the cultural quirks, navigating Greek bureaucracy, and learning what it really means to be part of a close-knit community. I realised that if I didn’t write it all down, these moments would fade.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

Longer than I’d like to admit! A Parthenon on Our Roof took around 18 years from concept to publication. I kept telling myself I’d get around to it, but life (and Greece) kept getting in the way. Eventually, I made the decision to sit down and actually finish it, and once I did, I knew I had found my passion when it became an instant best seller.

How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?

Thankfully, I’ve improved my turnaround time! The Parthenon Paradox took about 18 months to completion. This book was different—it wasn’t just about humorous cultural observations; it was about survival, resilience, and the kindness of a community in the face of disaster.

Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write The Parthenon Paradox?

This was a book I needed to write. When a biblical flood swept through our home, leaving Alex and me homeless, we found ourselves battling not just the elements but also village politics, Greek bureaucracy, and a neighbour who seemed determined to make our lives even harder. What followed was a whirlwind of absurd legal battles, incredible acts of kindness from the local women, and a journey of redemption that forced us to rethink everything. The Parthenon Paradox is about more than just rebuilding a house—it’s about rediscovering faith in people, choosing kindness over revenge, and finding laughter even in life’s darkest moments.

What were your biggest challenges with writing The Parthenon Paradox?

Unlike my previous books, which focused on the funny side of Greek life, this one had deeper emotional layers. Reliving the devastation of the flood, the stress of false accusations, and the feeling of helplessness was difficult. But at the same time, writing about the kindness of our neighbours and the moments of unexpected joy reminded me why I love this place so much.

What was your research process for The Parthenon Paradox?

All of my books are memoirs, based on my personal experiences, but The Parthenon Paradox required a bit more research—mainly into Greek property laws, flood patterns, and the intricate web of bureaucracy we found ourselves trapped in. I also spent a lot of time speaking with locals about similar experiences and how they had coped. Of course, much of my research also involved sitting in kafenio, drinking ouzo, and listening to village gossip—which, in Greece, is just as valuable as any legal document!

How did you plan the structure of The Parthenon Paradox?

I tend to write in a very fluid way, letting the story unfold naturally. However, with The Parthenon Paradox, I knew I needed a strong narrative arc. I structured it around key events: the flood, the aftermath, the legal chaos, and our decision to take the higher road. I wanted to balance the heavier moments with humour and warmth, ensuring that while the story is about overcoming hardship, it never loses its lightness and charm.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did The Parthenon Paradox need?

Absolutely! I worked with the incredible Nicky Taylor, who has an uncanny ability to take my chaotic storytelling and shape it into something polished and cohesive. She made sure the pacing was tight, the humour landed, and the emotional moments hit the right notes!

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?

Just start. Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Get your words down, even if they’re messy. Writing is rewriting, and the hardest part is simply beginning. Also, don’t be afraid to inject your own voice and personality into your work—authenticity is what makes a book truly resonate with readers.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

I’m already working on the next instalment in the Parthenon series. Life in Greece is never dull, and there’s always another adventure (or disaster) around the corner. I’m also planning another Musings book—shorter, standalone observations about Greek village life, full of those little moments that make living here so wonderfully absurd.

And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

Without a doubt. Writing The Parthenon Paradox was both cathartic and rewarding. Seeing it hit #1 on Amazon’s new releases before it was even published was overwhelming. But more than anything, hearing from readers who connect with my stories, who laugh and cry along with me—that’s what makes it all worth it.

Where can readers find your books?

Amazon Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369010324939088/search/?q=peter%20barber

A Parthenon on Our Roof

Kindle: https://amzn.to/4hCFxMq

Paperback: https://amzn.to/3FHp0cL

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4hEtvSO

Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Dtj072

A Parthenon in Pefki

Paperback: https://amzn.to/3R8mhvt

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/3R8ZhMV

The Parthenon Paradox

Kindle: https://amzn.to/4hw9fTj

Paperback: https://amzn.to/3DwgEnT

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/3FFAZYk

🌍 Website: https://peterbarberwriter.com

📱 Social Media:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369010324939088/search/?q=peter%20barber
• Twitter: https://x.com/greekwriting