Fred Vargas

Fred Vargas (born March 18, 1957) is a French archaeologist and crime writer whose novels featuring Commissaire Jean-Baptiste Adamsberg have won significant critical acclaim. After pursuing a career in archaeology, Vargas turned to writing. Her debut novel "Les Jeux de l'Ange" (The Games of Angels) was published in 1991. The book introduced Adamsberg, a quirky detective with an intuitive approach to solving crimes. Vargas's novels are known for their atmospheric settings, historical depth, and complex characters. She has won numerous awards, including the Prix du Quai des Orfèvres (1996) and the Grand Prix de Littérature Policière (2006). Her works have been translated into over 40 languages and have sold over 15 million copies worldwide. Vargas's international success has established her as one of the most celebrated crime writers of the 21st century.