Author's Page
Christopher J. Williams is a writer of hidden history: stories that are overlooked or ignored by mainstream historians and conjurers of official historical narratives. In Palace of Ghosts: Singapore's Untold History he draws on his investigations into local history, his extensive experience in Asian trade and commerce, coupled with a librarian’s keen eye for detail and meticulous research to uncover the fascinating story behind Singapore’s forgotten royal palaces—Istana Woodneuk and Istana Tyersall.
Having lived for years next door to their hidden location, he delves into the urban myths that have shrouded them in mystery, weaving a vivid account of the palaces, the larger-than-life figures tied to their history, and the profound impact their fortunes had on shaping the region we know today.
Christopher was born in England and grew up in a coal mining village in Yorkshire, England. Born into a family of educators, with deep roots to the ancient county of Westmorland, he studied Librarianship at Northumbria University and worked briefly with The Economist before leaving England in the early 1990s.
While traveling he forged a deep connection with historical investigation and a fascination with the natural environment: history with a strong sense of place. His writing explores the geographical, ecological or even meteorological context of an event: why it occurred there and not somewhere else.
In 1993 he settled in Hong Kong. He was hired by one of the worlds leading media companies where he worked for the next 15 years. In 2007 he relocated to Singapore where he was asked to take up a leadership role in one of the world's foremost global travel companies.
Christopher’s writing style brings Asian history to life in a compelling and accessible way. With a passion for uncovering hidden histories, he pieces together gaps in the record, seamlessly connecting the dots to enrich the existing narrative in a way that resonates deeply with readers.
In 2021 Christopher decided to become a full-time writer publishing his first book, Palace of Ghosts, in March 2025. Christopher currently resides in Sri Lanka and Beijing where he is researching his next book.