Picture a Filipino storyteller who weaves chilling ghost stories with the magic of Asian folklore—meet Rin Chupeco! Born and raised in Manila, this nonbinary Chinese-Filipino author has captivated young adult horror fans with tales that blend eerie atmospheres, complex characters, and cultural depth. From coding computer programs to crafting novels that haunt readers worldwide, Chupeco’s journey is as fascinating as their stories.
The Making of Rin Chupeco
Rin Chupeco grew up in Manila, surrounded by a rich tapestry of Chinese, Malay, Thai, and Filipino heritage. As a child, they devoured horror and mystery tales, particularly drawn to Japanese ghost stories that highlighted the injustices faced by women. This fascination, coupled with influences from Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, and Filipino folklore, shaped their storytelling. Initially a graphic designer and technical writer, Chupeco transitioned to writing fiction full-time, inspired by a chance meeting with Neil Gaiman, who urged them to pursue their literary dreams.
Rin Chupeco’s Unforgettable Stories
Chupeco’s debut, The Girl from the Well (2014), introduced Okiku, a vengeful spirit inspired by the Japanese folklore tale ‘Bancho Sarayashiki.’ Unlike typical horror antagonists, Okiku is a sympathetic anti-heroine who hunts murderers, blending psychological depth with spine-chilling suspense. Its sequel, The Suffering (2015), continues Okiku’s haunting journey. The Bone Witch trilogy (2017–2019) explores necromancy through Tea, a young witch inspired by Filipino mangkukulam, navigating power and betrayal in a lush, Middle Eastern-influenced world. Chupeco’s Wicked As You Wish (2020) mashes up fairy tales and Filipino mythology, following Tala Makiling Warnock in a magical, modern adventure. Their adult debut, Silver Under Nightfall (2022), dives into gothic vampire fantasy with queer themes, showcasing Chupeco’s versatility. Their style—lyrical, experimental, and deeply cultural—flips horror tropes, making ghosts and monsters relatable.
Chupeco’s works often explore identity, otherness, and retribution, reflecting their nonbinary and queer perspective. By centering Asian folklore and challenging Western horror norms, they craft narratives that resonate with readers seeking diverse, thought-provoking stories.
Why Rin Chupeco Matters
Rin Chupeco has redefined young adult horror by amplifying Asian voices and folklore in a genre often dominated by Western narratives. Their stories give agency to marginalized characters, from vengeful ghosts to queer heroes, fostering empathy and cultural pride. As one of few Filipino authors published internationally while based in the Philippines, Chupeco inspires aspiring writers, proving that global success is possible from anywhere. Their growing fanbase and critical acclaim, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, highlight their lasting impact.
- Born: Manila, Philippines
- Key Works: The Girl from the Well, The Bone Witch, Wicked As You Wish, Silver Under Nightfall
- Pronouns: They/them
- Influence: Neil Gaiman, Japanese folklore, Filipino mangkukulam
Snag The Girl from the Well and dive into Rin Chupeco’s hauntingly beautiful world of young adult horror!