Crimson Hearts Entwined

By Victoria Eldridge

Dive into "Crimson Hearts Entwined," a riveting tale where the vibrant pulse of New Orleans meets the enchanting whispers of magic and destiny. In this enthralling African American romance, Maya Jennings and Elijah Rousseau are drawn together by a force stronger than fate, embarking on a journey that weaves through the shadowy realms of Vodou and the unbreakable bonds of love.

Maya, a talented artist captivated by the lore of her heritage, finds her life forever changed when she crosses paths with Elijah, a man burdened by a family curse that threatens to tear them apart. Together, they plunge into the heart of New Orleans' mystical underbelly to confront ancient spirits, navigate the trials of forbidden magic, and unravel a mystery that spans lifetimes.

As they edge closer to salvation or doom, Maya and Elijah discover that the key to breaking the curse lies not in power or sacrifice, but in the strength of their love—a love tested by the darkest forces. Will their bond endure, or will the shadows of Elijah's past doom their future?

"Crimson Hearts Entwined" is a captivating story of passion, sacrifice, and the power of love to transcend the veil between worlds. Open the pages to embark on a spellbinding journey where love's eternal flame burns brightest in the face of darkness, proving that even the most cursed hearts can find redemption.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Devon House
• Release date: Mar 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224327171

Book preview

Crimson Hearts Entwined

Love and Magic Beyond the Veil

Victoria Eldridge

Copyright © 2024 by Victoria Eldridge

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Contents

1.The Art of Spirits

2.Echoes of the Past

3.Whispers in the Dark

4.The Loa's Call

5.Shadows of New Orleans

6.The Price of Power

7.Bonds Beyond Death

8.The Heart of Vodou

9.Sacrifices Made

10.Crimson Hearts Entwined

Chapter one

The Art of Spirits

In the heart of New Orleans, amidst the labyrinth of historic streets that pulse with life and legacy, the Adair Gallery was alight with anticipation. The gallery, a refurbished Creole townhouse, buzzed with the city’s art enthusiasts, critics, and curious passersby, drawn in by the promise of something truly unique. Maya Jennings, a rising star in the art world, was about to unveil her latest series, Spirits Among Us, inspired by African American folklore and the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ haunted history.

The walls of the gallery were adorned with Maya’s work, each piece a window into a world where folklore breathed life into the canvas. Vibrant colors clashed with dark, brooding shadows, figures of lore and legend danced amidst scenes of everyday life, and the eyes of the painted spirits seemed to follow viewers as they moved through the room.

As Maya navigated the crowd, her excitement was palpable, her eyes sparkling with the thrill of sharing her vision. Dressed in a simple, elegant black dress that contrasted with the riot of colors on her canvases, she was a beacon of creativity and passion.

Maya, darling, this is phenomenal! gushed an admirer, clasping her hands. The way you’ve captured the essence of the loan, it’s... it’s hauntingly beautiful.

Thank you, Maya responded, her smile warm. I wanted to bring the stories my grandmother told me to life, to share our heritage in a way that resonates not just with our community, but with anyone who feels drawn to these tales.

As conversations ebbed and flowed around her, the gentle hum of jazz from a corner trio filled the air, intertwining with the murmur of the crowd. It was then that he entered—Elijah, though his name was yet unknown to Maya. He moved through the gallery with an ease that belied his intense focus, his gaze lingering on each piece as if he could see beyond the paint to the stories cradled within.

Their eyes met across the room, and for a moment, the world seemed to pause. There was an intensity in his stare that sent a shiver down Maya’s spine, a sense of recognition that made no sense.

He approached, his steps measured, and stopped before one of Maya’s favorite pieces: a depiction of a crossroads at midnight, guarded by a figure with piercing eyes. This is incredible, he said, his voice low and resonant. You’ve captured Papa Legba perfectly. It’s as if you’ve seen him yourself.

Maya was taken aback by the depth of understanding in his words. Thank you, she replied, finding herself intrigued by this stranger. The crossroads are a powerful symbol in Vodou—gateways between worlds. It felt important to include them.

Indeed, Elijah agreed, his eyes locking with hers again. And what worlds have you seen, Maya Jennings?

The way he said her name as if it were a secret they shared, sparked a curiosity within her. Only the ones I dream of, she confessed, smiling slightly. And what about you? Do you believe in these gateways?

Elijah’s smile was enigmatic. I’ve had my experiences with the unseen. Your work... it speaks to me, reminds me of truths many prefer to ignore.

Their conversation was cut short as others vied for Maya’s attention, but the connection had been made, an invisible thread spun between them. Elijah remained in the background, watching, waiting, as the night unfolded.

As the last echoes of laughter and conversation faded, Maya felt an uncharacteristic pang of disappointment. The evening had been a triumph, yet the departure of the mysterious Elijah left her gallery feeling emptier than she would have liked to admit. With the dimming of the gallery lights, her thoughts circled back to their conversation, to the intensity of his gaze, and the way he spoke of the spirits and the unseen world with such familiarity.

She