Wicked City (novel series)

Wicked City is a Hong Kong-based science fantasy novel series written by Peter Chung, also known as Wei Si Li (衛斯理) in Chinese. The series blends elements of cyberpunk, horror, and mythology, exploring the hidden world of demons and supernatural beings coexisting with humanity. The stories typically feature the protagonist, a paranormal investigator named Wisely (Wei Si Li), who is drawn into conflicts between humans and these otherworldly forces.

The series is known for its fast-paced plots, imaginative creatures, and explorations of themes such as the nature of good and evil, the balance between different dimensions, and the potential consequences of tampering with the unknown. While often described as science fiction, the series incorporates significant elements of traditional Chinese folklore and mythology, creating a unique blend of genres. The novels often feature graphic violence and mature themes.

The Wicked City novels have been adapted into various media, including manga, anime, and live-action films, with varying degrees of faithfulness to the source material. The animated adaptation, also titled Wicked City, is particularly well-known for its dark and violent depiction of the story's themes. While the various adaptations have broadened the series' audience, the original novels remain the core of the Wicked City universe. The series holds a cult following due to its unique blend of genres and its often provocative content.