No, I am not “okay”. I’ve had a very bad night spent in sub-zero temperatures with two broken limbs, and now I have to run for my life like some fugitive when I have done absolutely nothing wrong except tell off some ancient psycho to his face, and then you show up like the ghost of Christmas past when I least expect it.

A Midflight Vampire’s Tale by Linda Ling is a refreshingly innovative take on the vampire genre, weaving together ancient Chinese history, modern lore, and a deeply personal tale of redemption. The story unfolds mid-flight, where two vampires reluctantly find themselves sharing a cabin. The setting of an overnight flight serves as the perfect backdrop for a tale that alternates between historical flashbacks and the present, building suspense and intimacy in equal measure. Hands down, this is probably my favorite read of 2024. Genuinely, it was that good.

Cheng’s character is the novel’s emotional core. Her backstory is as rich as it is heartbreaking, and her voice balances the wisdom of centuries with the rawness of unresolved guilt. And if you’re wondering about her past in ancient China, rest assured that Cheng will take us through everything you want to know:

“Never ask a woman her age. Especially someone like me. But since we’re talking about that, I might as well date myself. I was born in the year 247 B.C.”

While I love Cheng’s storytelling and sass, Henry, her reluctant confidant and adversary, absolutely adds another layer of tension and intrigue. The interplay between them is electric, revealing more about their shared history with every chapter. The juxtaposition of two types of vampires — True Bloods and Hybrids — brings a new twist to traditional vampire mythology. Ling’s seamless integration of historical research enhances the story’s authenticity and makes Cheng’s journey both poignant and unique.

A Midflight Vampire’s Tale doesn’t shy away from exploring the burden of immortality, the weight of past mistakes, and the complexities of connection… A deeply human story despite being told by vampires. With its lyrical prose, unforgettable characters, and masterful world-building, Ling’s novel is a must-read for fans of Anne Rice, vampire lore, and historical fiction. I can’t recommend it enough!

Read if you love: Ancient Chinese fiction, Vampires, Paranormal Fiction

The post Indie Book Spotlight: A Midflight Vampire’s Tale by Linda Ling first appeared on Nikki Elizabeth.