Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising By Lara ParkerFirst off, if you’re not familiar with the 1960s tv show then this book is probably not for you. Sure, you could still read it, but it’s just not going to have the same appeal and you’re going to find yourself scratching your head a lot — even if this genre is one you enjoy. The recent movie and revival show wouldn’t have truly prepped you for the craziness that is Dark Shadows.
In this latest novel (written by the woman who played Angelique in the original series) we find that teenager David has fallen madly in love. The girl he has fallen in love with is living in the old house with her mother. What could possibly be wrong with that set up especially when neither Jackie nor her mother seem quite right? Barnabas, unhappy with his marriage to Julia, is lurking in the background watching over his family, mainly from afar. Quentin, well, he’s got plenty of issues — namely that whole werewolf thing and he’s lost his painting. Oh and don’t worry, yes, Angelique is involved in all of their dramas. A member of the Blair family shows up claiming to know that there is a vampire in the area — a mad claim for sure, but Elizabeth still offers him space for his mad scientist type of lab (what’s up with the recluse letting anyone and everyone in her home?). Quentin wants Blair there , as he promises to be able to hold a seance and as we know those lead to time travel. Someone does end up back in time — right where Quentin wanted to end up — just not Quentin.
As I said, the craziness that is Dark Shadows… it is all here. Witches, vampires, werewolves, seances, time travel, magical paintings, family members in love with each other, curses, deaths, near deaths, possession.
If you’re not a fan of the show, I don’t even know how to rate this book. I’d say it’s really not for you. It’s simple too much of a for the fans kind of book. If you’re a fan, it’s a solid story. I’ve read one other Lara Parker book (Dark Shadows: Angelique’s Descent) and my overall opinion is the same with both – at times it feels like she tries just a little too hard to be over the top. This series is a bit over the top with sooooo much crazy stuff happening though that it only feels a little off, not enough for me to be truly bothered. It’s an excellent addition to the Dark Shadows universe.
* Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost in order to review it. I offered no guarantee of a positive review, though I only request books I think I’ll like because why read a book you think you’ll hate?
