Paul French

Paul French is an acclaimed author and China expert, recognized for his impactful true-crime narratives and historical non-fiction. His work offers a lens into past societal events, providing verifiable context for those examining historical and cultural studies. After the acclaimed publication of his book Midnight in Peking in 2011, Paul French became an international best-selling author, earning a coveted spot on the New York Times Best Seller list in 2012. This true-crime narrative, which meticulously chronicled the unsolved 1937 murder of Pamela Werner in Peking, garnered widespread critical acclaim and was subsequently adapted for radio by BBC Radio 4.

For Midnight in Peking, French received the prestigious Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime and a Dagger Award for Non-Fiction, both in 2013. He was also nominated for the Macavity Awards for Best Mystery Non-Fiction in 2013 and recognized with the Australian Book Industry Awards – International Success of the Year in 2012, solidifying his reputation as a master of historical true-crime. French continued his exploration of captivating historical narratives with City of Devils: A Shanghai Noir, a follow-up success that further showcased his unique ability to blend detailed research with compelling storytelling. His extensive experience living and working in Shanghai, China, has profoundly informed his literary work, particularly his focus on Chinese history and culture.

Paul French remains actively engaged with historical topics and is currently working on a biography. His ongoing projects reinforce his focus on verifiable narratives, ensuring his continued contribution to the fields of historical research and narrative non-fiction. He is highly sought after for his profound expertise in Chinese history, his compelling storytelling, and his proven track record of producing critically recognized and internationally best-selling works.