Frequently Asked Questions
Everything about reading, wallet Credits and chapter unlocks, Featured Free and our translations.
What is Talecrypt?+
Talecrypt is an English-language reading platform for classical Chinese ghost stories, fox-spirit tales and supernatural mysteries. We translate public-domain works such as Pu Songling's Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio (Liaozhai Zhiyi) and Ji Yun's Notes from the Thatched Hut of Close Scrutiny (Yuewei Caotang Biji) into modern English.
Are the stories free to read?+
The first chapters of every story are free. We also run a Featured Free shelf that unlocks five complete stories for everyone; the shelf refreshes every 15 days. You can find it under Free Reads in the top menu.
How do I unlock a paid chapter?+
Top up your wallet once — $10, $30, $50 or $100, or any custom amount from $1 to $500 — and each top-up adds Credits at a fixed rate of 1 USD = 100 Credits. Paid chapters each unlock for a fixed amount of Credits — the exact price is shown on the reading page. You can unlock chapters one at a time, or buy the whole book at once and enjoy a bundle discount.
Is there a subscription?+
No. There is no subscription and no recurring billing. You top up your wallet when you want, and Credits never expire while your account is active. Purchased chapters stay unlocked for you forever.
Which payment methods do you accept?+
Payments are processed by Creem, a Merchant of Record that collects and remits applicable taxes. You can pay with major credit and debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay; one-time top-ups in mainland China also support Alipay.
Are the stories translations or original writing?+
The stories are faithful English translations of original classical Chinese works that are in the public domain, often followed by an editorial gloss. Each story page lists the original author, source collection and translator. The Chinese source text is used during our internal review process.
Do I need an app to read?+
No. Talecrypt is a mobile-friendly website that works in the browser on phones, tablets and desktops. Your reading progress, favorites and unlocks are saved to your account.
Can I write for Talecrypt?+
Yes. Use the Become a Writer link to apply as a translator or contributor. Approved authors get a dedicated studio and earn a share of the revenue from their chapters under their contract.
How do I get a refund?+
Because chapters are cultural content, Credits already spent on unlocks cannot be refunded. Unused recharge balance can be refunded, less Creem's processing fees. Contact [email protected] and we will help you.
Still have a question? Contact us or email [email protected].