The Wicked and the Willing: An F/F Gothic Horror Vampire Novel

Lianyu Tan writes a sapphic historical gothic horror novel set in colonial Singapore during 1927. The story follows Gean Choo, a destitute maidservant who accepts an offer from her new mistress, Verity Edevane. Verity is a vampire who craves the blood of young women, seeking a rare mix of desire and fealty. Gean Choo must navigate this dangerous arrangement while dealing with Po Lam, the gruff majordomo who has served Verity for decades. The narrative explores the abusive romantic relationship between Gean Choo and her mistress, as well as the tension between them and Po Lam. The book is organized around these three perspectives, highlighting the sacrifices required to earn love and absolution. Tan qualifies this work by noting its mature content and dark themes, which include potentially disturbing scenes. The novel contains two mutually exclusive endings, though most of the story is not interactive. It won the 2023 Lambda Literary Award for LGBTQ+ Speculative Fiction and the 2023 Golden Crown Literary Award for Paranormal/Occult/Horror. This book suits adult readers interested in dark fantasy and historical fiction with supernatural elements. It does not suit those uncomfortable with abusive romantic dynamics or mature horror themes. The text draws on gothic horror traditions and sappfic literature to present a tale of seduction, violence, and despair. Readers seeking a clean conscience for its characters will find none, as the story demands sacrifice from all involved.