A Cross to Bare

Reporter Lucille Easton’s nose tells her that the full moon murders plaguing the city are the work of a vampire, and thanks to the efforts of the newspaper’s researcher Willi, she learns that the undead do indeed exist.

When Willi herself becomes a victim, Lucille deduces that the vampire is her new boyfriend: he’s the undertaker’s new assistant; he lives in the apartment above the mortuary; and his job guarantees an endless supply of blood.

The reporter plans to stage a seduction of the suspected vampire in his apartment, while hiding a crucifix in her cleavage and a vial of holy water in her purse. She’s already framing in her mind the story she’ll write and the Pulitzer she’ll win. Surely a TV anchor’s slot will follow.

But we know what they say about the best-laid plans . . .