Jewel Gomez should be mentioned with Octavia Butler as they both brilliantly explored F&SF through an insightful lens that is(was) black and female. In this case of the Gilda Stories Ms. Gomez uses the vampire tradition to explore American history in a most entertaining and insightful way. Written in an episodic manner The Gilda Stories are an easy and enjoyable read. If you can find a production of one of her plays I’d highly recommend both!