The Indio and the Impaler

by Wincy Aquino Ong

Dapitan, 1893.

DR. JOSÉ RIZAL thought exile meant peace and quiet—until his prized student vanished, and whispers began circling about a soil merchant in a manse on the hill.

Rizal follows the trail into a nightmare older than the colony itself. Now the exiled revolutionary must confront an impossible horror—elegant, ancient, and very, very hungry.

THE INDIO & THE IMPALER is a blood-soaked collision of gothic horror and Philippine history, where the greatest mind of the islands pits himself against the Prince of Darkness—COUNT DRACULA.

Genres: Horror, Historical, Historical Fiction

348 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 2025

About the author

Wincy Aquino Ong is a Filipino author, illustrator, musician, director, actor, and podcaster.

He is mostly known as a songwriter for the bands Narda, Us-2 Evil-0 and Patience Dear Juggernaut, the director behind the films San Lazaro and Overtime, and an actor in the TV series Rakista. He is also the co-host of the podcast, The Telebabad Tapes.

He has written for various publications such as The Philippine Star, Esquire, Northern Living, 8list.ph, Windowseat.ph, amongst others. His first published short story appeared in Neil Gaiman's Expeditions Prose Vol. 1, The Philippine Graphic / Fiction Awards.

He wrote the liner notes for the Eraserhead's Circus limited edition vinyl release.

He currently resides in Makati, with his wife Cj de Silva, and their two cats Andres and Max.

Reviews

[rex in peace]

date read: 10/8 to 10/10

DNF at page 139 because wtf is this??? already blocked the person who said this has homoerotic tension. tension requires subtlety. this has the subtlety of a brick. this is not dracula btw. could’ve just been a random vampire and that would have been fine. also this is in 1893 and they talk like they were chronically online during the tumblr era. this is on me for having such high expectations.

you know what? i was supposed to dnf this at page 137, which was already cringe-inducing enough, but i still pushed thru. if you have this book or have read it already, you know what’s in page 139 that pissed me off. yes. dracula used the word "sapiophile", a word that wasn't even used until a hundred years from when this story is set. he just randomly brought it up like he started a conversation with "do you know what a sapiophile is?" because he ran out of things to talk about. lmao. this book definitely has an audience but it's not me. i'd rather just reread twilight. k bye.

[Patrick Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if Dr. José Rizal faced off against Count Dracula?
This book says: Why not?

Upon reading a first five chapters, I was hooked. Ong’s Rizal isn’t the stiff national hero we learned about in textbooks—he’s sharp, witty, human, and flawed. The story reimagines his exile in Dapitan as not a quiet retirement but as the stage for a battle of ideas: intellect versus hunger, creation versus destruction, enlightenment versus empire. Dracula isn’t just a monster; he embodies colonial greed, feeding on a nation’s soul. It’s clever, layered, and deeply Filipino.

I also love how cinematic the writing feels, given Ong’s filmmaking background. The imagery is lush, eerie, and bold. Every page feels like it could jump onto a movie screen—fog, blood, candlelight, revolution. Underneath all the horror is a reflective commentary about what it means to fight for identity and light in a world built on shadows.

I came for the crazy premise, but I stayed for the execution. This is not just a mash-up; it’s a myth reborn, a fresh way to view our history through fiction's fangs.

If you enjoy historical fantasy, gothic horror, or Philippine-set speculative fiction with depth, this book is a must-read. It’s rare to find something so proudly local yet so universally relatable.

I can’t stop thinking about it. A blood-stained masterpiece. Congratulations Sir Wincy. Looking forward to your next book.

[Florence Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 🌟

I was actually really drawn in by the premise of this story. Rizal, the Philippine national hero, battling Dracula during the Spanish-occupation era? Count me in!!

The beginning of the story immediately draws you in with a missing-person case. I was instantly hooked.

But one thing that shocked me though (as I went into the book blind) is that there was some homoeroticism between some characters. And I was expecting Dracula to be much more of a savage blood-thirsty monster. 🤔 I like how they portrayed Rizal though. He is still very much an intellectual (as he is in real life), but here, he is witty, petty and is fond of teasing. The writing style doesn’t seem to fit the time period, but it has little effect to me.

It was a fun drawn out battle between Rizal and Dracula, with a lot of casualties. It was a satisfactory ending for me.

I’d say I expected much more but this was still a fun read.

[kyra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical fiction novel follows the author's, X vs Rizal series where our national hero is pegged face to face with great personalities; the first being Sherlock Holmes in 'The Opthalmologist's Case'. It's told in the form of Rizal's letter to a friend, Ferdinand Blumentritt, and recounts events that transpired during his exile in Dapitan.

In The Indio and the Impaler, Ong reimagines a Rizal so egoistic and full of pride that he readily takes on whatever hurdle and challenge that comes his way - even that of dueling a vampire! Dracula vs Jose Rizal - if its a battle between magic and language, Rizal might be at a disadvantage. How can an indio writer go toe to toe and expect to win in battle against an impaler?

It's fun, witty, humorous, and filled with dark comedy. What a treat to read PH-inspired reimaginings like this!

PS. That flash forward scene was IT !! I can only wish to know what Rizal would think about the state of the Philippines today.

[Chloe Giani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I knew what this book was about until I actually read it and it turns out I had no idea what I got myself into.
When I first got my hands on The Indio and the Impaler and read the back of the book, people were saying "oh so it's like Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter", guys it's NOT. We were wrong, so wrong - we were not even in a different spectrum.

The whole book is an adventure of emotions. I first felt the wrath of being an Indio in my own country - reading about colonial slavery then I felt anger towards Spanish corruption - which then made me realize how we inherited our current culture lol. Then the mystery starts, what happened to dear Pilar. At that point and with the cover, it was easy to assume it was Dracula. I was seated for their first encounter. Then that's when the dark humor really shone. I will try not to spoil anything but some things were so absurd and out of bounds - for example, Dracula and Jose Rizal drafting a contract over dinner.
There was also a lot of popular references that pops up every now and then which add to the fun but some reference I think were used to show just how arrogant Rizal is.
Then, I was mesmerized by the intellectual connection between the two and how they turn this whole fiasco into a power play but also a tons of what ifs had their characters and situations have been different.
Then again, as I was feeling all serious, it drew me back to a ridiculous plot so entertaining - there was no space to not appreciate the humor.
But then again, suddenly I was pulled back into a political spectacle that made me really think deep about what Rizal would feel knowing how the Philippines is now.

Despite being an absurd and dark humor-filled tale, the book is layered with cold hard truth, history, and creativity.

And if that hasn't sold you into getting the book yet then I will read this excerpt to you as my last resort:
"There are days when I think eternity is a curse I place on myself." he whispered in my ear. "But when I am in your company, Rizal, the thought of eternity makes me smile." - Dracula

[Bibliophilic Richard]

The Indio and the Impaler is an instant hit, getting all the hype during the recently concluded MIBF. I was lucky enough to snag my copy on the first day and, of course, made sure to budol fellow Book Chicks. After the buddy read, we're all gearing for the rest of the book tour stops.

The Indio and the Impaler is a title and a premise that are eye-catching, luring you in like a siren song. With easy-to-follow prose, the book keeps you interested and leaves you wanting to know what happens next. I specifically appreciate the multiple references to history and culture. I also enjoyed reading about the different mentions of various facts about the Philippines, particularly those referring to Mindanao. To me, it was refreshing to read about Oroquieta and Pandacan, imagining the places I've passed in my bus rides. The Indio and the Impaler is a fun ride and one that opens doors for more stories reimagining our heroes encountering historical figures. Most importantly, I raised a fist in triumph because of the many social commentary, some very relatable to present day.

As fun as the book is, I would have loved the book more if the different settings in Mindanao were described more for readers to imagine them more clearly as they're places not as frequented by tourists as other destinations. Seeing a more consistent pace would place the reader into a pace more attuned with the story. All in all, The Indio and the Impaler is an entertaining read and one that'll allow us to appreciate Philippine history and culture in a different but just as entertaining manner.

Thank you very much Sir Wincy and Indie Pop for the book tour with Book Chickas. It truly is our honor to bridge readers with Filipino stories especially at a time when nationalism calls for our awareness. Mabuhay ang panitikang Pilipino! ❤️

[Sai theengineerisreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

got intrigued because of the cover and the premise, ended up liking it more than i expected.

i admit that i am not the biggest fan of historical fiction but this one is just different (in a good way!)
the characterization of our national hero stood out for me as it was fun and more outgoing (fun fact: i used to join rizal quiz shows in high school)

when i attended the author’s talk earlier this year, i now understand why this Rizal arc is effective (cc: ambeth’s Rizal books)

[Jake Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

ASWANG: A Reinterpretation and Retelling of Emergent Gothic Motifs within the Context of Philippine Literature

The Indio and the Impaler by Wincy Aquino Ong

Wincy Aquino Ong’s The Indio and the Impaler (2025) emerges as a monumental addition to contemporary Philippine Historical-Gothic Fiction/Dark Academia. The novel intertwines colonial history, folklore, philosophy, and the uncanny, creating a narrative that redefines the relationship between the Filipino experience and the Gothic imagination. Set in 19th-century Dapitan during Dr. José Rizal’s exile, the novel constructs a space where reason collides with superstition and enlightenment exists beside shadow. Through this fusion, Ong reshapes national memory into a dark, intellectual meditation on identity, exile, and desire.

The protagonist, Dr. José Rizal, is rendered not merely as the venerated hero of history but as a deeply human figure: a linguist, doctor, and teacher whose devotion to knowledge becomes both virtue and curse.

Dapitan is depicted as a rural and liminal world—forests breathing with myth, the sea whispering of spirits, and the air haunted by rumor of an immortal creature who dwells among the townsfolk.

The antagonist, Count Dracula—transfigured into the local aswang—serves as both horror and fascination, an outsider feared by the people yet studied by Rizal with scientific curiosity and repressed longing. Their encounters mark the convergence of intellect and instinct, mirroring the philosophical and emotional conflicts that defined the colonial condition.

The novel’s historical grounding reflects meticulous attention to cultural and social detail. Ong reconstructs the colonial Philippines with striking precision: the hierarchy of the indios, the omnipresence of the guardia civil, and the spiritual conflict between the Catholic Church and indigenous belief systems. Through this lens, Dapitan becomes both a geographical and psychological exile—a landscape where history itself becomes spectral. Horror arises not only from the supernatural but from the suffocating control of empire, the violence of faith, and the silencing of those who resist.

Intertextual echoes strengthen the work’s literary texture. The spirit of Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1897) permeates its narrative tension, while Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890) and Edgar Allan Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart (1843) and The Raven (1845) influence the novel’s exploration of obsession and decay. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) informs Rizal’s pursuit of knowledge, which becomes a form of transgression. These references locate Ong’s novel within the global Gothic canon yet reframe it within Filipino consciousness. Western motifs—madness, monstrosity, forbidden knowledge—transform into commentaries on colonization, moral hypocrisy, and the fractured soul of a nation.

Rizal’s exile parallels the Gothic trope of intellectual isolation. His fascination with the Impaler reflects both the colonized subject’s curiosity toward the colonizer and the philosopher’s yearning to comprehend the unknowable. The dialogue between enlightenment ideals and primal terror shapes the psychological core of the novel. The story becomes an allegory of the Filipino mind—restless, haunted, and forever negotiating the tension between faith, science, and myth.

Rizal’s engagement with the Impaler exposes his reflection in the creature’s eyes, suggesting an unspoken intimacy and a shared burden of exile. This motif mirrors the dualities of reason and desire, colonizer and colonized, life and undeath. The eroding landscapes of Dapitan embody the disintegration of empire and spirit. The physical decay parallels moral deterioration, exposing the fragility of ideals under tyranny.

The aswang symbolizes the native identity branded as evil by colonial discourse. The creature’s survival becomes a quiet rebellion, reclaiming the right to exist beyond imperial definitions. Rizal’s intellectual ambition approaches sacrilege, illuminating the Gothic’s obsession with the peril of reason when divorced from empathy.

His studies in anatomy, medicine, and language echo the gothic scientist’s tragic defiance of limits. Rizal’s solitude deepens into spiritual alienation. His rational detachment becomes a mirror of loneliness, a silence filled with voices of the dead and the oppressed. Through these motifs, Ong reconstructs the Gothic within a Philippine framework.

The tropical landscape becomes a site of haunting; the church, a monument to control; the forest, a sanctuary for the forgotten gods. The aswang emerges as a metaphor for collective memory, a spirit that endures erasure and reclaims narrative space.

Ong’s prose reveals an affinity for psychological realism and poetic introspection. The tone evokes the intellectual rhythm of Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891), allowing the reader to hear Rizal’s own cadence of thought. The boundary between author and character dissolves, producing an eerie authenticity.

This blurring of identity deepens the illusion that Rizal himself authored the novel, transforming history into metafiction and myth into memory. The narrative dismantles the sanctified image of Rizal. Rather than portraying him as an unblemished hero, Ong renders him vulnerable, eccentric, and painfully human. His pride, curiosity, and subtle yearning reveal the complexities of intellect confronting emotion.
Through this reconstruction, Rizal becomes not a monument of perfection but a mirror of contradiction—an embodiment of reason that trembles before desire.

An undercurrent of queer tension flows throughout The Indio and the Impaler, particularly within Rizal’s introspections and his dialogues with Count Dracula and narrations to Ferdinand Blumentritt, his European confidant. The exchanges, often framed through letters and recollections, suggest an emotional intimacy that transcends intellectual companionship. Rizal’s fascination with the Impaler parallels his attachment to Blumentritt: a desire that is coded through admiration, longing, and fear of exposure. Dracula’s attraction to Rizal’s intellect and purity of spirit manifests as both predatory and devotional. The relationship functions as a metaphor for colonial desire—a yearning that consumes while idealizing. The creature’s obsession with Rizal’s “heart and mind” implies a union of bodies and souls beyond the boundaries of morality and faith. In contrast, Rizal’s letters to Blumentritt—filled with affection and restrained sentiment—evoke a parallel tenderness. This triad of relationships (Rizal–Blumentritt-Dracula) creates a spectrum of emotional and philosophical desire, suggesting that love and intellect share the same haunted space.

The queer undertones expand the novel’s thematic reach. Desire becomes a mode of knowledge; longing becomes resistance. Rizal’s relationships articulate the repressed emotional life of the colonial subject—a yearning for connection amid confinement. Ong’s portrayal gestures toward the unspoken possibilities of love that history has silenced, transforming the Gothic into a space of forbidden tenderness.

The Indio and the Impaler exemplifies the emergence of a mature and distinctly Filipino Gothic tradition. Filipino writers have long drawn from myth, faith, and colonial trauma, yet Ong’s work elevates this synthesis into philosophical literature. The novel harmonizes folklore and historical inquiry, expanding the boundaries of genre while deepening national introspection.

Nick Joaquin’s Culture and History (2004) observes that the Filipino imagination continually revisits the past through mythic and haunted forms. Ong continues this lineage by fusing psychological horror with postcolonial reflection. The ghosts of empire, the ache of displacement, and the yearning for understanding converge within the novel’s atmosphere. Through this convergence, Ong contributes to a growing body of Philippine Gothic literature that reclaims monstrosity as a reflection of survival and memory.

Wincy Aquino Ong’s The Indio and the Impaler represents a masterful fusion of intellect, emotion, and imagination. The novel redefines the Gothic tradition in Philippine literature through its historical precision, psychological depth, and lyrical craftsmanship. It captures the essence of the Filipino struggle—the collision of faith and reason, the persistence of desire, and the haunting legacy of colonialism.

The reading experience provokes both terror and empathy. Each chapter resonates with philosophical weight and emotional vulnerability, leaving an aftertaste of wonder and melancholy. The novel achieves not only literary brilliance but cultural significance, transforming the Gothic into a language of remembrance and resistance.

An extraordinary and haunting masterpiece that transcends horror. The Indio and the Impaler reimagines Rizal’s exile as an allegory of intellect and desire, reclaims the aswang as a symbol of enduring identity, and introduces a subtle yet profound queer undercurrent within Philippine Gothic literature. The work stands as a testament to the evolving complexity and beauty of the Filipino literary imagination.

[Clyde Cyruz Alcaraz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Si Wincy yung tropa mong saksakan ng daldal about his what-ifs. Yung masarap ayain sa coffee shop thinking it’ll be a quick catch-up, so oorder kayo ng tig-isang kape. Four hours later, you’re still there. Still listening. Mildly enchanted. Mildly concerned. Talking about the same what-if.

There are moments when you enjoy every word—and moments when you wish you could gently, lovingly tape his mouth shut. Because at some point, the stories stop being stories and start breeding in your head. You begin seeing things. Every detail sticks. You don’t just remember what he said; you remember the texture, the mood, and possibly one of his characters standing in the corner.

From now on, tatawagin ko na siyang master of cameos and references. If you want to know why, read the book. For your own good.

To give you a preview. The Indio and the Impaler was billed as a gothic rumble set in 1893 Dapitan, it takes our national hero, Jose Rizal—yes, the same Rizal you learned about in school—and drops him into a nightmare that’s way more visceral than colonial paperwork. Exiled under the Spanish regime, Rizal thinks he’s getting a sabbatical with a sea breeze and maybe a couple of books. Then a student disappears (yung fave n’ya), rumors of a mysterious soil merchant spread, and before you know it, Count Dracula, is hovering over the Philippines like he’s late for dinner. What follows isn’t just a battle of blows but an intellectual face‑off: mortal mind against immortal hunger, ideas against bloodlust, nationalism against the darkest kind of myth. It’s bloody, it’s bizarre, and it’s very, very Filipino.

I would also like to ask—politely, respectfully—if Wincy would be willing to sign my copy using his blood. Just how it was easily requested by a devoted reader who has been hiding in Rizal closet for hours. And don’t ask questions.

If there is one thing I cannot ignore about this novel, it’s the language. By which I mean: this book is heavy. Linguistically. At first, I thought Wincy was simply trying to be faithful to the period—Dapitan, 1893—and to how Rizal and people of that time might have spoken. Fair enough. So I read it twice. Once as a reader. Once as a writer. Once to enjoy it. Once to ask myself why I was doing this to myself.

Honestly, I would not recommend this to anyone looking for a chill read. I asked myself, Would I recommend this to my 14-year-old brother whom I am trying to convert into a reader? Absolutely not. The language is dense. Deliberately so. Wincy clearly shaped it according to his vision of the era, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But there were many moments when my reading experience was compromised by how aggressively deep the English was. This is not beach-reading English. This is Edgar Allan Poe–Shirley Jackson–Thomas Ligotti–with-a-dash-of-Rizal English. (Mas malupit pa rin mag reference si Wincy.) If that sentence alone made you tired, this book is not for you.

It’s important to emphasize that I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone looking for a light read—not because it isn’t good, but because if the language doesn’t click with you right away, you might dismiss the book as bad, which would be deeply unfair. It is great, fully and unapologetically so.

That said—and this is the annoying part—it’s beautiful. Infuriatingly beautiful.

I caught myself thinking, I wish I could write like this. The chapter breaks are cruel in the best way. The cameos are deployed with precision. The references to other characters from other books are done just right—never lazy, never indulgent. The characters themselves are sharp, impossible to ignore. Wincy can do all of it, which is frankly unfair.

After reading, I developed a new appreciation for historical fantasy. There are moments when you pause because something feels familiar—like you’ve read it before—until you realize it’s because you did. In school. It’s history. Real history. Slightly bent, rearranged, and weaponized to build this novel. The author makes you think. If you’re unlucky, he makes you spiral.

This made me curious about his other works. I am currently hunting for Tales for a Rainy Season because I want to compare that Wincy to this Wincy and see what kind of evolution—or sorcery—occurred in between.

For now, this is my benchmark for historical fantasy. Wincy set the bar so high it’s now a personal problem. I either find something equally good, something better, or I spend the rest of my life still haunting.

This, I think, is how literature turns you into a book hoarder. You don’t buy books because you need them. You buy them because you are chasing the high of the last great one. Eventually, reading and buying books become two entirely separate hobbies.

Ok so, I’ll end this here, because I have never learned how to write a review without accidentally spoiling everything. If you can do that, paturo. You are clearly more evolved than I am.

[Isabela (InkandIsa on IG) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I’ve finally discovered one of my favorite things in fantasy fiction: characters getting high. 😂

So like, there’s a scene in this book that instantly reminded me of The Poppy War, specifically Rin’s drug-induced moments, which were also my favorites. It made me wonder if Wincy Ong took inspiration from The Poppy War or from something else entirely. Either way, that chapter (page 213!) truly sent me.

ANYWAY! this review contains spoilers, because I genuinely don’t know how to talk about this book without going into the details that made me love it so much. 🥲💞

First of all: I stand by my belief that Filipino historical fiction written by Filipino authors hits differently. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing our culture narrated with nuance, humor, sharpness, and heart. This book really leans into that, especially when it comes to discussing how Catholicism emerged and rooted itself in the Philippines.

Wherein it portrays the Catholic Church as a complex, multifaceted, and ultimately exploitative institution during colonization. That there is a sharp contrast between preaching morality and purity while simultaneously erasing entire indigenous belief systems such as our witches, our mananambal, our mangkukulam, and our pre-colonial spiritualities. I absolutely love how the book shows this through Father Sousa (don’t get me wrong i like his character the same way Rizal is friends with him 🥺🫶🏻)

And then comes Jose Rizal—the agnostic, analytical skeptic who suddenly finds himself face-to-face with Dracula and the supernatural. But here’s the thing, i love how the book shows that the irony of Rizal encountering something beyond his knowledge doesn’t convert him to Catholicism. It actually pushes him further away from it. Instead of embracing religion, he finds himself tangled and curious about forgotten gods, black magic, and would eventually spend his days studying everything about the filipino pre-colonial spiritual beliefs.

And I just have to say this too: Dracula in this book genuinely surprised me. He’s written as this unexpectedly liberated character—especially when it comes to discussions on sexuality. The way he talks about desire, identity, and autonomy? Honestly, shockingly progressive. And the wild part is… I actually agreed with a lot of what he was saying. Like, wait, why is Dracula low-key spitting facts right now? 😭

But here’s what I love even more: the book doesn’t fall into the trap of turning him into some misunderstood, morally gray anti-hero just because he has progressive ideas. This book is so clear about it—both things can be true at once. Dracula can be someone with surprisingly liberated takes on sexuality and also still be an evil entity. The narrative never excuses who he is, never softens the danger he brings, and never romanticizes his violence.

Ugh. This book is absolutely cinematic. Every scene plays like a movie in my head. And It’s also unexpectedly funny in a natural, witty, perfectly timed comedy that feels rooted in Filipino sensibilities. There’s one chapter where Wincy Ong makes a cameo—and it gave me full-on Marvel Stan Lee cameo vibes. It’s absolutely hilarious. 😭💀💀

And speaking of Marvel, there’s also a chapter that completely broke me. It gave me Infinity War–level heartbreak. You’ll know exactly what I mean when you read it. I genuinely cried my heart out.

Honestly, I absolutely love this book. It’s sharp, hilarious, bold, and imaginative. And the way it reimagines Rizal—while weaving in humor, horror, history, and magic—makes it one of the most refreshing Filipino fantasies I’ve read. 🫶🏻

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Indio and the Impaler is a historical gothic horror, fictionalizing the life of the Philippine National Hero set in 1893 near the end of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. Revolutionary Dr. Jose Rizal is exiled to distant Dapitan for his seditious and sacrilegious writings. When a prized student of his disappears, he tracks her down to a dilapidated estate amidst heightened tensions about land disputes between locals and occupiers. A newcomer to the country has just moved in under mysterious circumstances, and rumors abound that he is none other than Count Dracula himself. Rizal must pit himself against this ancient evil if he is to rescue his student and the city he now calls home.

This is my first ever locally published (Philippine) book outside of those required for school, and I thought I’d give it a try since the concept and cover intrigued me. I wanted to like it, but it just lost me as the book kept going. I understand what the book was going for with the gothic atmosphere and appropriate historical context, but I just had quite a bit of issues that drew away from it.

Rizal was portrayed as arrogant and egotistical which was understandable, but the book went beyond that. He was just written as dripping with condescension towards nearly everyone and had rather off-putting sarcasm. I didn’t find him all that likable, and I personally cannot stand an unlikeable protagonist.

The prose felt dated, but not period appropriate, so it is an issue with the writing rather than style. It had odd (sometimes incorrect) word choices as well as grammatical errors. I don’t understand what happened because the book also included a short story at the back that predated the main novel titled “The Ophthalmologist’s Case”. It is a Sherlock Holmes story about Watson & Holmes encountering Jose Rizal in 1888 during the Jack the Ripper murders that was really well written and brilliant in its execution.

The book also had a few surprises which varied in reception from me. First was the homoeroticism between Rizal and Dracula which I thought was a nice touch, but it came and went out of nowhere and really needed to be developed more deeply. I wanted the book to lean into it more. Next was the appearance of Sherlock Holmes, which felt really random (I had not read the attached short story yet), but it was mostly a cameo so I didn’t think too much into it. Lastly was the literal authorial self insertion that broke the fourth wall which is where the book lost me completely as I absolutely rolled my eyes at it. It was self-indulgent and really took away from the setting and atmosphere because of just how ridiculous it was to read.

The Indio and the Impaler had a great concept, but the execution turned me off.

[Read Love Irie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘋𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘙𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘭, 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘦, 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴! ”

"𝘕𝘰,” 𝘐 𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘦, " 𝘛𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘶𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘰—𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘰."

Goosebumps!

I dived into this book expecting a fierce battle of wits and power between two historical figures, Rizal and Dracula, but I found myself with more than just an appreciation for this brilliant speculative fiction.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿 by Filipino author @wincy.ong left me reflecting on heroism, humanity, and the monsters — both real and imagined—that shape our history.

As someone who knows only fragments of Rizal beyond what was taught in history class, I found myself drawn to the idea of him living out quiet adventures in exile. Ah, I just love speculative fiction—the endless what ifs can be wonderfully wild. And this book delivers exactly that!

𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘦𝘵, 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥, 𝘐 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘦. 𝘈 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵.

The story is told through a letter—Rizal's correspondence to his dear friend, Ferdinand Blumentritt. Each succeeding chapter continues this format as Rizal narrates the strange events that begin with his missing student. Each chapter is a delight, almost like a short story in itself, focusing on a particular event or character. And it constantly challenges your thoughts or makes you nod in agreement, realizing you share the same reflections.
And I love how this book shares Filipino cultures and traditions. It is a feast of stories and heritage!

𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦?... 𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘴, 𝘯𝘰 𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘭𝘦𝘴, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵.

These words seared into my heart.

[Daniel De Guzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Indio & The Impaler by Wincy Ong: A Short Book Review

Another must-have for anyone who can't have enough of our homegrown speculative fictions is Wincy Ong's highly entertaining mash up of the iconic count of the early Gothic literature and our very own "jack of all trades" national hero.

The Indio & The Impaler has all the hallmarks of a classic in the making: fusing unlikely characters in a gripping contest of wit down to an epic duel to the death, a strong alternative history ride picturing Dr. Jose Rizal in a different mask, and a dose of social commentaries that span across Philippine's turbulent yet colorful history.

But other than these, Wincy brings a superb narrative like no other in this novel, especially with my personal favorite scene where Rizal duke it out with Dracula himself with his scientific arsenal against the European's ancient sorcery. The fun and drama moving in adrenaline speed towards the climax was so satisfying with every single page.

For those who are looking for an exciting novel with a guaranteed fresh story that will take you on a wild, wacky, and wonderful ride starring Dr. Jose Rizal in his most humane and supernatural version (*wink*), The Indio Vs. The Impaler is your go-to book to sate that craving of yours.

[Fatma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so delighted by this book. You can really tell that the author has done a great amount of research coupled with his vivid imagination and came up with this book.

There are so many elements in this book that he pieced so well together. Filipino culture, Spanish culture, Filipino history, a play between the Philippines then and the Philippines now, raising and referencing the corruption and politics.

Throughout it all, he kept it very light and humorous. I loved the spicy bits and the fluidity of sexual orientation in this one - totally unexpected. Had me screaming while reading.

I love the consistency of the character building also.

Overall, I predict this may well be one of the Filipino contemporary classics.

I have read noli me tangere and watched a reenactment documentary about rizal, however I still feel clueless about this guy - even though he is everywhere and is very well known as a national hero. But I liked this authors take on rizal and his approach.

Highly recommend. I can see this being essential reading in the future.

[Denille Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the witty writing style with little swear words in every other sentence. Having Rizal's famous story stuck down our throats in high school, reading this was such a treat knowing the context vs international readers. I do like the not-so-subtle foreshadowing that the book does at some point. I also like how the author includes some meta plot point as well within the novel. And the title really says it all - Rizal getting to pit his wits against the wily and cunning Dracula. Halfway through the book I was already getting excited. There is a subtle undercurrent of LGBTQIA in the book, and I liked the ideas the author introduced in relation to this, including an exploration on whether the feelings are deepseated and newly unearthed, or if they were manipulations or twisted from the truth? There were also mentions of Philippine folklore, and I like how Dracula and his character is so distinct from your regular aswang. This book is very cleverly done and written from a point of view that makes you respect Rizal's intellect and his inner workings.

The actual battle is somewhat drawn out, but if you asked me, I rather preferred the intellectual meeting of the minds and thus enjoyed the banquet chapters a lot more than the actual fight scenes. Nevertheless, an enjoyable and short book all in all.

[Jo Liwanag · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Indio and the Impaler was an absolute joy to read. What immediately stood out to me was the author’s impressive storytelling, depth, and distinctive writing style. This is the kind of book that keeps you genuinely engaged from start to finish.

What I loved most was that I honestly didn’t know where the story was headed. As an avid reader, I usually find myself predicting the plot early on, but this book constantly surprised me. It begins as historical fiction with a touch of comedy, then seamlessly weaves in elements of romance, horror and fantasy. The blend of genres was done so well, it felt like an awesome combination of all my favorite kinds of stories in one book.

The unexpected appearances and references were delightful surprises (Even Sherlock makes a brief appearance!), adding to the charm and cleverness of the narrative. I also enjoyed the author’s self-insertion, it felt playful and personal rather than distracting. And the description of Crocs? That genuinely made me laugh out loud.

Overall, The Indio and the Impaler is a refreshing, unpredictable, and highly entertaining read. I finished the book smiling and already eager to read more from this author. Highly recommended.

[chrisbear · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun book, will appeal to history geeks, to those who are into the supernatural, to those who are into action fantasy/duel or fighting scenes/superpower stuff, to those who read fanfiction ships--the range diba haha. Which will be able to kill a vampire--science, folk beliefs, religion, or Rizal's brain/big ego? There is a person and place to be saved, and people who saves.
I've read the author's short story before where Sherlock and Rizal met. Now, it's Dracula and Rizal. I wish this becomes a series (ibang tao/character ulit!)🤞
This can also be recommended to other international readers especially Southeast Asians because countries like Malaysia and Indonesia are familiar with Jose Rizal, and because there are similarities in folk practices/beliefs.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Rizal Versus Dracula”

I think that’s the shortest book pitch that would immediately have me seated. It’s like I’m reading an episode of my favorite manga, Record of Ragnarok, where a god-like being would battle against one of mankind’s greatest champions. My favorite page is 295; I was just grinning as I saw the present Philippines reflected in every word.

I adore books that weave universes beyond common imagination—something unapologetic, something that would leave a foul taste to a reader limited by their own moral compass, something that bites! This book reminded me to write outside the box. To touch horizons no one dared to entangle. To be a tabula rasa!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Reg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

[Atlas Rùshuì · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

rizal ever the baby girl w plot armor

[Ruby Dalegendaryreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The oppressed always found ways to resist."

Jose Rizal's exiled in Dapitan, and when his student suddenly disappeared, he set out to investigate only to find out Count Dracula did it.

This book has been circling my bookstagram. I mean, look at that cover? It will always be one of my favorite this year. If you ask me what book I bought based on the cover, this is the answer.

Let me preface this by saying that going in, I had high expectations. I have only read raving and positive reviews so I was very excited to read this.

But you know what they say when you have your hopes up, you'll be bound for disappointment.

"The Spaniards could destroy paper, but they could never kill the flame of my ideas."

First off, I love the first half of the book. I love seeing a reimagining of Rizal. We are in his POV. He's a diva, he's sassy, he's smart, quick and witty with a great sense of humor and sarcasm. I love the Filipino representation of this book: from the place, to the side characters, even through the food. It's good to read books you understand the culture, history and even the settings.

The premise sounded so intriguing. Ngl. I always love me some mystery thriller gothic vibes, but this? Made by a Filipino based on our national hero? Top tier. I haven't read Dracula or anything like that so I was expecting gothic horror creepy vibes, but initially didn't really get it. He can be any vampire for all I know and it wouldn't make a difference to me.

Like I said, I love the first half where Rizal was investigating things, when the mystery was still
shrouded with darkness and atmospheric eerie vibes. However, as we go along the story, like the second half, I was slowly losing interest. The battle felt dragged on to the point where I couldn't care less of the outcome.

I was even questioning, all that trouble for a single human? What for? I wished we saw more of Pilar's (the student who was kidnapped) character to see what made her so special to ensue this level of chaos. Maybe I am just not invested as much as I would've liked.

One thing that really REALLYYYY grated on my nerves was the queer representation in this. Don't get me wrong, I love queer representation in any books, but in this one specifically, it kinda felt forced. Like it was added there for the shock factor or oomph. I especially hated how Rizal outed Pilar to Dracula. IYKYK. If you see how Rizal was spouting that Pilar couldn't love Dracula because she's in love with her best friend WHILE Pilar was under Dracula's house, that was plainly stupid for me. Rizal did not just think of the repercussions of his words and actions. Also what was the 'dream' where Rizal and Dracula spent a day together, and they acted like lovers, then irl Rizal kissed Dracula? Like where was the tension, the longing, the thought process of what made Rizal kiss Dracula? It was so over-the-top to the point that I was shock from the sheer audacity of Rizal's action because we really didn't see that coming even though we are in Rizal's POV. Anyways, I did just not like that aspect to it. But if you remove that, it would've been great for me.

Three stars, with an added one star purely for the cover.

[Highnyzbibliofiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across this book as it was one of the tours in TFS, and my friends were lining up to get their books signed during MIBF. Since it was not part of my budget at that time, I did not buy it. Somehow after MIBF, my clubmates from TFS and TBTM have been raving about it, and it made me decide to have it. But it took me a while to really purchase it, as it had been sold out in the online store where I usually buy my stuff.

“I’m coming for your heart” – this is the very foundation of the plot. Will he fight for his own heart, or the one he loves—his country? And indeed, he fights until his body is tattered and bruised. The story has been so interesting to dive into; it gives us a different side of a fictional Rizal, showing that he can be as feisty as Bonifacio.

Somehow, it did not diminish his ingenuity. He is still this brainiac intellect, and Wincy includes many book references in some dialogues, which make a good rationalization of how he fought the Prince of Darkness. Through his thorough research and learning, he finds ways.
The inclusion of the gender theme enables the story to discuss the lack of openness during those times. To add, it makes sense in relation to the notion of the fluidity of Dracula’s gender. Probably with his immortal life, he indeed wants to be with someone with good intellect. Somehow, living for a thousand years would be boring if he is talking to a nonsense individual.

Moreover, Dracula is written differently. He is not as vicious as we perceive him in other books. With the scenario that this is after his defeat in his own story, I would say he is having more fun in the Philippines.

This book somehow gave me a storm of emotions; it made me laugh, anxious, and even teary-eyed. It has a lot of genres involved—thriller, horror, drama, and more.

I met Wincy during a watch party event of Pinoy Speculative Fiction, and it was a good discussion with him. Learning the journey and the alternate plot is mind-blowing. It was like: what if this certain plot was included, what could have been the flow of the story?

We discussed the mixed reviews from readers as well, especially those who treat Rizal as a deity. Someone holy without a tarnish in his respectable individuality, this book is quite different from what they perceive him to be. However, this is a work of art. I believe Rizal was not degraded in any form or by the writing. I guess readers have their own reflections, which makes it a book for them or not.

[Sir Carl Dominic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked and staked through the heart is the best way to describe how I am after reading this book. I really admire how storytelling and the theme of both worlds, being Philippine Culture and History, and gothic horror, go smoothly together. Dark Magic, maybe of Dracula could be the influence as to why it felt like I was there myself watching the events unfold; the book truly did make me, as the reader, a part of it all. But still really wished the ending could've told more of the aftermath of the battle, meeting once again with Pilar to see if she still went on with her plans of travelling to London, Carnicero recovering, and finally having a conversation after saving her daughter, and many more, but then again, why not have some cliffhangers for the readers to interpret on their own nuh?

Personally, I love the book. It's a first that a book has me hooked like this to the point na matapos tapos ko na rin sya instantly while dreading for it not to end. No other book in my to-read set had this effect on me, wow.

As for the ending it has? Peaceful at nakakaiyak. (Sir Wincy di naman po kinakailangan saksakin kami ng todo ng ganyan po, masakit na nga ang mga panyayari)

Now unto the spoiler parts of it all that I want to ramble on;

How I truly rooted for Rizal to accept the offers of the count (but alas, love and eternal life were not the mission at hand). The dynamic ba naman they both have really made me fanboy on it while reading on the carts of the MRT on my way to University (Yes, at the MRT where I've stumbled on the gift and kiss chapters) but it's doomed yaoi, Jose Rizal on the quest of saving Pilar from her captive, and the Count just wanting to live in peace while he lays fruitfuly on the mounds of soil offers Rizal his love and the gift of eternal life. It really is difficult to persuade a man who is set on a mission, especially Rizal. And I really do believe that the moment Rizal offered a truce to Dracula, the possibility of them being together in eternal life or Rizal's fleeting one ceased to exist. sad sad

[Mind Bind Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝔚𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔪𝔬𝔬𝔫 𝔯𝔬𝔰𝔢 𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔯 𝔇𝔞𝔭𝔦𝔱𝔞𝔫, 𝔥𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔬𝔯𝔶 𝔪𝔢𝔱 𝔥𝔬𝔯𝔯𝔬𝔯. ℑ𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔢𝔡… 𝔞 𝔟𝔞𝔱𝔱𝔩𝔢 𝔬𝔣 𝔦𝔫𝔱𝔢𝔩𝔩𝔢𝔠𝔱 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔦𝔪𝔪𝔬𝔯𝔱𝔞𝔩𝔦𝔱𝔶. 🖋️🩸

The Indio & The Impaler book—a gothic tale that’s equal parts chilling, humorous and thought-provoking.

“DR. JOSÉ RIZAL thought exile meant peace and quiet—until his prized student vanished, and whispers began circling about a soil merchant in a manse on the hill.”

What if our national hero met the world’s most infamous monster? Sir Wincy Ong reimagines this impossible encounter and turns it into something that feels strangely plausible—a meeting of brilliance and darkness, of faith and fear.

I bought this book out of sheer curiosity, thinking it might be out of my league. But The Indio & The Impaler surprised me. It’s fiction with a pulse of truth, a story that gave me different spectacles—some that made me laugh, others that made me ache. Beyond the gothic horror and the clever premise lies a reflection of humanity itself: how knowledge, kindness, and courage can coexist even in the face of the monstrous.

The Indio & The Impaler is a haunting, heartfelt read—a story that dances between myth and memory. It reminds us that even the greatest minds can be vulnerable, and that sometimes, the most human thing we can do is feel.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ5ozA4jv...

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Indio and The Impaler by Wincy Aquino Ong
Read: Sep 17-19, 2025

4 stars 🌟

I really loved how this book was wrapped up! It left such a lingering effect on me, and I know I’ll be thinking about one particular scene for weeks. What fascinated me most was how the author imagined Rizal’s mind… His narcissism, arrogance, brilliance, and pride. At times he could be frustrating, but that only made him feel more human and layered. On the other hand, Dracula was unpredictable and hard to grasp, yet I sensed a hidden nobility beneath his monstrous side. I also feel like he is also lonely, given the fact that he was alive for centuries already. The mix of their personalities made the story so engaging, and overall, I really enjoyed the experience.

Beyond the unusual premise of Rizal meeting Dracula, the book also highlights deeper issues. It touches on colonialism, corruption that lingers to this day, and the hope for the next generation not to falter over the struggles of life. I found it powerful that Rizal was portrayed as a man of science, and the way the book is written, written like a letter to a friend, made it feel intimate, almost as if I was reading Rizal’s own words to Ferdinand. It’s such a unique, creative, and imaginative book, both in concept and execution.

[✨ may ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Realizing this isn't just fantasy or magic.

It's not really about "who wins the fight" but "what the fight represents": intelligence vs. greed, nationhood vs. colonization, creation vs. consumption.

This is for the frustrations we currently have, but also a reminder that these struggles have always been with us. This is a story of how we are caught in a loop, ruled by people (or monsters) in "power" and how this loop is getting worse and worse.

This book feels like a message, a question. Do we coward away because we think we're powerless, or do we show up and prove what we're capable of, as an individual and as a nation?

Also, I love the nod to the famous quote “Nasa kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan”.

Heavens to Makiling! Napaka-husay na paalala na nasa atin ang kapangyarihan! A very very good read, Wincy Aquino Ong , congratulations!

[Ceejay Barangan · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the shores of Dapitan to the dark heart of imagination—I’m honored to be joining the book tour for this haunting, ambitious, and deeply Filipino reimagining of our history, hosted by Book Chickas PH in collaboration with Indie Pop.

The Indio & The Impaler by Wincy Ong is simply WOW—this is not your usual historical tale. Imagine the brilliant mind of Rizal, the heart of a patriot, standing against the dark allure of eternal life. This is a mash-up of history, horror, and myth, with moments that make you gasp and reflect all at once.

Wincy Ong doesn’t just tell a story; he bends time, myth, and legend into something completely unexpected. You’ll find yourself in the quiet exile of Dapitan one moment, and battling supernatural horrors the next, all while feeling the weight of colonial Philippines and the spirit of resistance.

It’s a love letter to history . . . with fangs!

[Ronabear · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if Count Dracula sailed to the Spanish-era Philippines and met José Rizal?

Indio and the Impaler takes that wild idea and turns it into a fast-paced, thought-provoking story that blends history, humor, and horror in the best way. Set during the Spanish colonization, it explores faith, identity, and the clash between reason and belief, while keeping things fun and full of action. It’s witty, exciting, and a little absurd at times, but it all works together so well.

It’s the kind of book that keeps you entertained while making you think. And if you read closely, there’s even a clever cameo that fans of classic literature will definitely recognize.

The writing is clear, the pacing tight, and it never lost me for a second. I was hooked from start to finish.

[Liana Smith Bautista | Libervore Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment I heard Wincy Aquino Ong's THE INDIO AND THE IMPALER was an alt-history with Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal versus Count Dracula, I was like, "Take my money, give me book, please."

No regrets, because this book took me on an emotional roller and sent my brain into an impromptu review of what I did and didn't know about Rizal’s history.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Dr. Jose Rizal lives out a peaceful exile in Dapitan—until his favorite student goes missing. A search leads to a newcomer in town with a mysterious and very, very long past: vampire sorcerer Count Dracula. A man of science, Dr. Rizal must now embrace the supernatural to duke it out with the Prince of Darkness himself. The stakes? All remaining life in the province and beyond.

WHAT I LOVED
🤓 Nerding out on the historical and literary easter eggs and cameos Ong dropped like so many gifts to his readers.

🪄 The world-building that merged Stokeresque vampirism with Philippine folklore and geography.

🧛‍♂️ I loved Seth Grahame-Smith's supernatural retellings, so was stoked we got a prominent historical figure battling it out against Dracula himself! (SQUEE! went my crossover fangirl heart!)

🏳️‍🌈 The completely unsubtle unstraightness of both Rizal and Dracula. Totally shipped forever Rizentritt with a side of Dracuzal. Even the mention of Josie B could distract me from delighting in Pepe's gayness.

🍿 The dream and fight scenes were so downright trippy and bloodily graphic, my imaginary movie player went into overdrive. My brain got a book hangover!

🗯️ The book touched on many of the issues firing up people leading up to the Philippine Revolution, but also resonated with incendiary topics in the here and now.

🎭 OMG YES to the thrills, UST, thought-provocation, and hilarity. But I didn't expect to ugly-cry on top of everything, so damn you, Wincy Ong, and also thank you for this absolute trip of a novel.

[Vina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book cover actually seduced me and I instantly bought it lols. I did wonder why, of all places, Dracula would seek refuge in the Philippines after Van Helsing gutted him but it would make sense since Philippines is also filled with mysticism and he was drawn to its nature.

And he actually fell for the Short king Indio José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda??? Doomed Yaoi! Actually, hell yeah! He pulled 8 or 9 ladies during his adventure in Europe. I am not entirely surprised Dracula would also be part of that list haha! It's a fun read and the issues presented in the plot is STILL relevant to this day.