Vampire's Cradle: Bloodhaven Manor Series, #1

By K. L. Bordeaux and Ezra DiMarco

In the sultry, shadow-drenched streets of New Orleans, a fertility clinic whispers promises of miracles. But beneath its guise of hope, two vampire doctors play a sinister game. Their dark secret? Impregnating clients with a bloodline never meant to see the light of day. A bloodline blending human and vampire, birthing children with terrifying, untamed powers. But secrets in the vampire world don't stay hidden for long. The overlord, a figure of nightmarish authority, uncovers their treachery. His verdict is swift and brutal – extermination. Yet, the deed is done. The city is now blessed with children, heirs to a forbidden legacy. Each child, a ticking time bomb of supernatural chaos, eludes the overlord's grasp. In the heart of the French Quarter, whispers rise – whispers of a new era, a renegade generation. A generation that could topple the ancient order of the night. But who will claim them first? The overlord, desperate to contain the threat? Or the shadowed corners of New Orleans, where rebellion stirs, hungry for change? The hunt begins... and the fate of two worlds hangs in the balance.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Equestrian Basics
• Release date: Jan 27, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224116706

Book preview

Chapter One

A re you ready for this? Isabella asked as she and her husband, Mark, faced an industrial building in mid-city New Orleans. Her voice was barely above a whisper. She'd worn a cute pair of argyle socks and a dark blue jumper. Mark always thought this made her look like a cute Raggedy Ann doll, far younger than her thirty-two years.

He squeezed her hand reassuringly. We've come this far, haven't we? There's no turning back now.

Isabella clutched Mark's hand tightly, their fingers locked as they stood before the building holding the answer to their deepest desires. Their eyes held a mix of hope and desperation, born from years of heartache and countless failed attempts at parenthood. It was a longing that gnawed away at their once unshakable bond, leaving them fragile and worn.

The exterior of the fertility clinic loomed before them like an ancient fortress, commanding attention with a grandeur and mysterious aura. Its gothic architecture seemed incongruous, ominous shadow in the bright and lively city of New Orleans, setting it apart from the colorful surroundings. Intricate stone gargoyles perched on the roof corners, watched over the entrance with menacing stares. Ivy slowly crept up the sides of the building in a suffocating embrace.

As they approached the large wooden double doors, the air around them grew colder, sending shivers down their spines. Isabella felt a twinge of unease as she absorbed the eerie atmosphere, wondering if the secrets hidden within this place would grant them the miracle they desperately longed for.

Feels like we're walking into a haunted house, Mark joked, attempting to lighten the mood.

Maybe that's what makes it special, Isabella replied, forcing a smile. Despite her growing apprehension, the thought of finally holding a baby in her arms—their baby—sent a warmth through her veins.

Let's hope so, Mark said softly, leaning in to push against the door after gently kissing her forehead. Together, they released a deep breath and took the first step toward their hopeful future.

Upon entering the clinic, Isabella's breath hitched as she took in the grandeur of the reception area. The high ceiling was adorned with an ornate chandelier that cast a soft, warm glow over the womb-like room, soothing her frayed nerves. They approached the reception desk.

Welcome to the Crescent Moon Fertility Clinic, the receptionist said, her smile bright and practiced but keeping her voice to moderated tones. You must be Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. Please, have a seat. Dr. Vincent will be with you shortly.

After they sunk into dark purple velvet chairs, Isabella's fingers traced intricate gold thread embroidery on the armrest, seeking comfort in the tangible reminder of their commitment to this place. She glanced at Mark, his eyes distant and clouded with uncertainty as he stared pointedly at a giant, dark painting on the wall. It looked like something van Gogh might have painted but in much deeper colors.

Mark, she whispered, we're finally here. What are you staring at? Cut it out.

There's something behind that painting. I keep seeing something. A layer of haze or something. It's moving, he whispered.

Just stop. We've been waiting for months to get an appointment here. This might be the answer we've been looking for.

He faced her, his expression softening. I know, Isabella. It's just... we've been through so much already. I can't help but worry. His voice faltered, betraying rare vulnerability. As a Navy pilot, he tended to project extreme competence and confidence. Their journey had been so long.

Mr. and Mrs. Thompson? A melodic contra-tenor male voice interrupted their thoughts, startling them. A man dressed in a doctor's white overcoat stood there with a warm smile and too-bright pale eyes that bored into their souls. I'm Dr. Vincent. It's a pleasure to meet you both.

Nice to meet you, too, Doctor, Mark managed to say, rising to shake the physician's hand.

Please, follow me, Dr. Vincent beckoned, leading them down a caramel-painted hall lined with rich mahogany doors. His stride was graceful, almost otherworldly, as if he floated rather than walked. Isabella got the sense that this man made little noise at home.

Your clinic is beautiful, Isabella remarked, making small talk to dispel her uneasiness.

Thank you, Dr. Vincent replied, his eyes never left hers as he ushered her deeper inside. We strive to create an environment that feels both welcoming and mysterious. The journey to parenthood can be a wondrous experience, full of secrets waiting to be unlocked.

Have a seat, he instructed, motioning to the two chairs facing his desk. As they settled in, he leaned back in his own chair, his long fingers curled over the ends of his armrests. So, tell me about yourselves.

Isabella hesitated, the memory of their struggle overwhelmed her. Mark spoke first, sharing their story with a raw honesty, making Isabella's throat tighten. They'd tried countless treatments, spent sleepless nights wondering what they were doing wrong, and shed too many tears to count. Through it all, however, they'd never given