Lesley Downer is a renowned author and historian with a profound passion for Japan. She is well known for her historical fiction set in Japan, focusing on the untold stories of women. Her works are based on meticulous research and vivid storytelling. Her latest books include The Shortest History of Japan and a new edition of her beloved first book, On the Narrow Road to the Deep North.

Lesley Downer is the author of the acclaimed series known as The Shogun Quartet, which consists of four novels set in the 19th century during Japan's civil war period. The series includes The Shogun’s Queen, The Last Concubine, The Courtesan and the Samurai, and The Samurai’s Daughter. Her book, The Last Concubine, was shortlisted for the Romantic Novel of the Year 2009 and has been translated into 30 languages.

She has also written notable non-fiction works, including Geisha: The Secret History of a Vanishing World. In addition to her writing, Lesley served as a historical consultant for Northern Ballet’s 2020 ballet, Geisha, and appeared in the Netflix series Age of the Samurai: Battle for Japan.

Lesley writes reviews for the TLS and the Literary Review, contributes to the History Girls blog, and produces podcasts. She is also fluent in Japanese, contributing further to her expertise as a geisha and Japan expert.