This episode I talk with writer Paul French about all things Ricki Tarr.

We explore how Tarr’s backstory reflects the declining British Empire as much as the Cold War, how his past explains his the character we see in the novel and unwrap Tarr’s past as a ruthless killer.

Plus, Japanese prisoner of war camps, gun running and spies in Southeast Asia.

Finally, why readers should view this book through a different lens than they might have previously.T

All that and much more in this episode.

Paul’s Website – https://paulfrench.substack.com/

Paul’s article on le Carré – https://thechinaproject.com/2021/02/05/what-a-john-le-carre-novel-can-teach-about-china/

Paul’s new’s book The Last Emperor of China – https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250373465/thelastemperorofchina/

Paul’s breakout hit Midnight in Peking – https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/242223/paul-french/

Paul’s Twitter – https://x.com/chinarhyming

Find more on my Substack.