by Dan Simmons
First published 1993
In a crumbling Romanian orphanage, immunologist Kate Neuman discovers an infant who survived a fatal blood transfusion. The baby thrived instead of dying. Kate sees potential in Joshua's remarkable immune system. His blood could unlock cures for cancer and AIDS. She adopts him and brings him to America. But Joshua carries more than medical promise. His blood connects him to an ancient vampire clan led by Vlad Tşepeş, the historical Dracula. When the clan's agents kidnap Joshua, Kate faces an impossible choice. She must return to Romania and confront creatures that should not exist. Father Mike O'Rourke joins her desperate mission. Together they enter a world where science meets supernatural horror. Kate will risk everything to save the child who could save humanity.
Genres: science-fiction, fantasy, horror, thriller
Vibes: dark, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Romania, America
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
453 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Warner Books
Content warnings: medical-trauma, violence