What do you think?
Rate this book
Dark Shadows #3
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising
The first all-new Dark Shadows novel in years, written by Lara Parker, one of the stars of the cult classic TV show!
When a portrait is lost that has maintained Quentin Collins's youthful appearance for over a century—and has also kept his werewolf curse at bay—Quentin begins to dread the full moon.
Meanwhile, David, the sixteen-year-old heir to the Collins fortune, has fallen in love with Jacqueline, a young girl living at the Old House who is the reincarnation of Angelique. David and Jacqueline are swept back in time to the prohibition era of the Twenties, where David uncovers the dark secrets of the Collins family history.
Most threatening of all, Dr. Nathanial Blair, an expert in the paranormal, has come to Collinwood because he suspects they are harboring a vampire. Fortunately, Barnabas Collins has returned to his coffin after a disastrous flirtation with life as a human. Nevertheless, what Blair discovers places the entire Collins family in jeopardy.
When a portrait is lost that has maintained Quentin Collins's youthful appearance for over a century—and has also kept his werewolf curse at bay—Quentin begins to dread the full moon.
Meanwhile, David, the sixteen-year-old heir to the Collins fortune, has fallen in love with Jacqueline, a young girl living at the Old House who is the reincarnation of Angelique. David and Jacqueline are swept back in time to the prohibition era of the Twenties, where David uncovers the dark secrets of the Collins family history.
Most threatening of all, Dr. Nathanial Blair, an expert in the paranormal, has come to Collinwood because he suspects they are harboring a vampire. Fortunately, Barnabas Collins has returned to his coffin after a disastrous flirtation with life as a human. Nevertheless, what Blair discovers places the entire Collins family in jeopardy.
395 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
24 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Lara Parker
40 books84 followersLara Parker was born Mary Lamar Rickey in Knoxville, Tennessee, and grew up in Memphis. She attended Central High School in Memphis, and won a scholarship to Vassar College. At Vassar, Lara began a major in philosophy, which she completed at Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College), receiving her BA. She attended graduate school at the University of Iowa and completed all course work on a Masters in speech and drama. During the summer when Lara was supposed to write her thesis, she acted at the Millbrook Playhouse, in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, playing 5 leading roles in 6 weeks. Rather than returning to Iowa, she decided to try her luck in New York. During only her second week in the city, she was cast as Angelique, the witch, in the daytime horror serial, Dark Shadows (1966). It was a role she held for 5 years. It culminated with the film, Night of Dark Shadows (1971). While still in New York, Lara appeared on Broadway in "Woman is My Idea", as well as in two off-Broadway plays: "Lulu" and "A Gun Play".
In 1972, she moved to Los Angeles, and began working in film and prime-time television, performing many guest starring roles, and occasionally returning to daytime television. After retiring from acting, she changed her focus back to what her original interests were. She became a high school and college English teacher, and obtained her MFA in creative writing (from Antioch University). Parker authored four novels based on "Dark Shadows" (see book section, below).
Parker lived in California with her husband, Jim Hawkins and their daughter, Caitlin Hawkins. She died at age 84 from cancer in October 2023.
In 1972, she moved to Los Angeles, and began working in film and prime-time television, performing many guest starring roles, and occasionally returning to daytime television. After retiring from acting, she changed her focus back to what her original interests were. She became a high school and college English teacher, and obtained her MFA in creative writing (from Antioch University). Parker authored four novels based on "Dark Shadows" (see book section, below).
Parker lived in California with her husband, Jim Hawkins and their daughter, Caitlin Hawkins. She died at age 84 from cancer in October 2023.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 2, 2025
The vampire stirs.
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising ~~~ Lara Parker
2.5/5
Vampires, Werewolf, Witches, Incest, Uxoricide, Immortals, Mad Scientist, Clansmen, Bootleggers, Time Travel, Reincarnation, the Mafia, Jazz Babies, Hollywood Stardom, Shootouts, Seances, Hidden Passageways, Paintings that Grant Perpetual Youth, Gypsy Fortune Teller, Curses, Rape, Crimes of Passion, Hidden Crypts, Tarot Cards, Blood … all that and more awaits you in the pages of Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising.
Lara Parker’s Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising is proof that less is more. This bloated book needed to have 100+ pages edited out.
I AM a fan of the original Dark Shadows. ~~ not that shitty Tim Burton movie, but the original Black & White soap opera. I have been watching it in reruns for ages. It could have been subtitled Sympathy for the Vampire ~~ after all, it's all about Barnabas Collins.
I loved Parker’s first book, Angélique's Descent; I enjoyed her second book, Dark Shadows: The Salem Branch. But her third book, Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising is truly a mess.
What I loved about Angélique's Descent is how well Parker knew her characters. This book focused solely on Angélique and Barnabas; having played the character of Angélique for five years, Parker understood Angélique better than anyone possibly could. Afterall, she brought Angélique to life.
Dark Shadows canon means nothing to Parker with this book ~~ she tossed it all aside. It was as if Parker was writing a Parallel Time plot ~~ those familiar with the series will get this reference.
SPOILER ALERT Here are a few of Parkers rewriting the Collin’s Family History:
• The Collin’s Family has fallen on hard times, and much of the mansion lies in ruins since they have very little money.
• The love of Elizabeth’s life is her great-uncle, Quentin.
• Elizabeth and Quintin had an incestuous relationship and planned to marry.
• Elizabeth had been a major Hollywood movie star in the 30s and 40s.
• Elizabeth is a jazz baby and gun moll, gunning down mafia hitmen with relish and laughs about it.
• Parker ignored that Elizabeth was born in 1917 ~~ in 1929 she’d have been 12. Yet she was bootlegger and could handle a machine gun.
• She retreated to Collinswood after her career was ruined.
• The Collins family is hated throughout Maine.
• The Collins family have not held any social gatherings in decades ~~ Parker totally ignored the costume ball that introduced Barnabas to Collinsport.
• No reference is made of Maggie.
• Here, Magda curses Quentin in 1932. In the TV show this took place in 1897 during the second flashback.
• Julia Hoffman is now the vampire wife of Barnabas ~~ WTF???
• Julia exists only to serve Barnabas ~~ again ~~ WTF???
• Angélique begs Barnabas to make her one of the undead to spend all eternity with him. This was done on the original TV show for a short period, and Angélique hated it. She begged Nicholas to be released from the curse.
What bothers me most is what she’s done to Barnabas. In the original TV soap, Barnabas was a tortured soul ~~ an honorable vampire ~~ cursed by Angélique to live eternity as one of the undead, never to know love for rebuffing her. What mattered most to Barnabas was family and defending the family at all cost.
In Parker’s retelling of the tale, Barnabas is evil. He thinks nothing of destroying members of his family for his personal gain. He repeatedly rapes the new resident of the Old House as only a vampire can. Out of jealously he obliterates the one thing that can keep Quentin’s curse at bay.
Dark Shadows centered on the travails of a vampire with a conscience ~~ here Barnabas Collins has no conscience, no morals and no scruples.
My biggest complaint here is that Parker took a scandal Joan Bennett ~~ the actress who played family matriarch, Elizabeth ~~ had been involved in 1951 and incorporated into her novel. I suspect Miss Bennett would have been mortified by this. Parker showed a complete disregard for Bennett by adding this to her tale.
Dark Shadows was unique. The tone was serious. It was contemplative. It made use of the great classics — not just Dracula or Frankenstein, but The Turn of the Screw, Jane Eyre, The Picture of Dorian Gray and all of those wonderful Edgar Allan Poe horror stories. Sadly, Parker ignores much of this and goes for shock rather than honoring the classic that was Dark Shadows.
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising ~~~ Lara Parker
2.5/5
Vampires, Werewolf, Witches, Incest, Uxoricide, Immortals, Mad Scientist, Clansmen, Bootleggers, Time Travel, Reincarnation, the Mafia, Jazz Babies, Hollywood Stardom, Shootouts, Seances, Hidden Passageways, Paintings that Grant Perpetual Youth, Gypsy Fortune Teller, Curses, Rape, Crimes of Passion, Hidden Crypts, Tarot Cards, Blood … all that and more awaits you in the pages of Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising.
Lara Parker’s Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising is proof that less is more. This bloated book needed to have 100+ pages edited out.
I AM a fan of the original Dark Shadows. ~~ not that shitty Tim Burton movie, but the original Black & White soap opera. I have been watching it in reruns for ages. It could have been subtitled Sympathy for the Vampire ~~ after all, it's all about Barnabas Collins.
I loved Parker’s first book, Angélique's Descent; I enjoyed her second book, Dark Shadows: The Salem Branch. But her third book, Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising is truly a mess.
What I loved about Angélique's Descent is how well Parker knew her characters. This book focused solely on Angélique and Barnabas; having played the character of Angélique for five years, Parker understood Angélique better than anyone possibly could. Afterall, she brought Angélique to life.
Dark Shadows canon means nothing to Parker with this book ~~ she tossed it all aside. It was as if Parker was writing a Parallel Time plot ~~ those familiar with the series will get this reference.
SPOILER ALERT Here are a few of Parkers rewriting the Collin’s Family History:
• The Collin’s Family has fallen on hard times, and much of the mansion lies in ruins since they have very little money.
• The love of Elizabeth’s life is her great-uncle, Quentin.
• Elizabeth and Quintin had an incestuous relationship and planned to marry.
• Elizabeth had been a major Hollywood movie star in the 30s and 40s.
• Elizabeth is a jazz baby and gun moll, gunning down mafia hitmen with relish and laughs about it.
• Parker ignored that Elizabeth was born in 1917 ~~ in 1929 she’d have been 12. Yet she was bootlegger and could handle a machine gun.
• She retreated to Collinswood after her career was ruined.
• The Collins family is hated throughout Maine.
• The Collins family have not held any social gatherings in decades ~~ Parker totally ignored the costume ball that introduced Barnabas to Collinsport.
• No reference is made of Maggie.
• Here, Magda curses Quentin in 1932. In the TV show this took place in 1897 during the second flashback.
• Julia Hoffman is now the vampire wife of Barnabas ~~ WTF???
• Julia exists only to serve Barnabas ~~ again ~~ WTF???
• Angélique begs Barnabas to make her one of the undead to spend all eternity with him. This was done on the original TV show for a short period, and Angélique hated it. She begged Nicholas to be released from the curse.
What bothers me most is what she’s done to Barnabas. In the original TV soap, Barnabas was a tortured soul ~~ an honorable vampire ~~ cursed by Angélique to live eternity as one of the undead, never to know love for rebuffing her. What mattered most to Barnabas was family and defending the family at all cost.
In Parker’s retelling of the tale, Barnabas is evil. He thinks nothing of destroying members of his family for his personal gain. He repeatedly rapes the new resident of the Old House as only a vampire can. Out of jealously he obliterates the one thing that can keep Quentin’s curse at bay.
Dark Shadows centered on the travails of a vampire with a conscience ~~ here Barnabas Collins has no conscience, no morals and no scruples.
My biggest complaint here is that Parker took a scandal Joan Bennett ~~ the actress who played family matriarch, Elizabeth ~~ had been involved in 1951 and incorporated into her novel. I suspect Miss Bennett would have been mortified by this. Parker showed a complete disregard for Bennett by adding this to her tale.
Dark Shadows was unique. The tone was serious. It was contemplative. It made use of the great classics — not just Dracula or Frankenstein, but The Turn of the Screw, Jane Eyre, The Picture of Dorian Gray and all of those wonderful Edgar Allan Poe horror stories. Sadly, Parker ignores much of this and goes for shock rather than honoring the classic that was Dark Shadows.
August 27, 2013
I'm not sure that I've ever read anything quite like LARA PARKER's new DARK SHADOWS novel, WOLF MOON RISING. Opening with a brief abstract illustrating the star-crossed relationships of its major players, the novel feels like a relic from the past. Not because of its period setting, but because it embraces the kind of fanatical pursuit of ideas that has fallen out of fashion in modern literature. The story is told with the unbridled, slightly unhinged energy of a writer who doesn't believe she's got the luxury of a do-over in her next book.
Even though WOLF MOON RISING would qualify as a gothic romance by anyone's definition, I was constantly reminded of PHILIP K. DICK throughout. Summarizing this novel is going to be a nightmare for critics, because there are no fewer than four stories humming along concurrently, each one of them laced with social and political satire that ranges from subtle to horrendously violent. There's a ton of backstory involved, not only from Parker's previous novel, but from the television series, as well. And GRAYSON HALL fans are probably going to be pissed.
In other words, there's a lot happening in the book. Possibly enough to fill a year's worth of stories in the original series.
Minor spoilers follow.
Picking up a few weeks after the conclusion of THE SALEM BRANCH, we're introduced to a new status quo at Collinwood. Barnabas Collins is again a vampire, as is Dr. Julia Hoffman. As you might expect, Barnabas isn't entirely happy with the situation. He not only hates what he's (again) become, but despises Hoffman's submissive new role. The more she tries to please him, the more he resents her, leading to a shockingly cruel resolution to this conflict in the book's early pages.
If that wasn't enough, Barnabas decides to follow through on his plan to sabotage the happiness of Quentin Collins by destroying the magical painting that keeps his werewolf curse at bay, and provides him a unique form of immortality. Meanwhile, a man claiming to be the relative of Nicholas Blair arrives at Collinwood in search of a vampire, while David Collins and his haunted companion, Jackie Harpignies, take an expected trip back to Collinwood's heyday in the Roaring Twenties.
While it all sounds simple enough, the level of absurd mayhem in WOLF MOON RISING is sometimes astonishing. While Parker has literary goals, she never lets go of the bizarre elements that made DARK SHADOWS special. The book can be quiet and lean when it wants to be, such as in Jackie's increasingly lonely encounters with school bullies. But it can also go full CHAN-WOOK PARK, sometimes to its own detriment. The "1920s Flashback" doesn't so much climax as it cascades, as bootleggers, organized crime and the Ku Klux Klan leave permanent scars on Collinwood in quick order. With DARK SHADOWS, it's always hard to tell when too much is too much, and this leg of the story might actually bend credulity past its breaking point.
Then again, it might all have been worth it for the moment of a young Elizabeth (not-yet-Stoddard) Collins riding the sideboard of a luxury car, blasting away at mobsters with a revolver.
The novel also touches on some of the favorite themes of the original television series. While the daytime program had to abide by the nebulous standards of network censors, Parker's under no such restraints. As it turns out, Louis Edmonds' famous "incestors" blooper had some basis in fact. Yeah, the relationship between Barnabas and Carolyn (not to mention his relationship with Victoria Winters, since we were lead to believe she was also a Collins) was always icky. In WOLF MOON RISING, though, Parker calls it what it is. Jameson Collins, played in the 1897 story by a young DAVID HENESY, is a grown man in the 1920s flashback, and is furious by the previously unrevealed affair between his daughter, Elizabeth, and his immortal uncle, Quentin. The "I" word is used, and it's not not pretty.
And it's not even the biggest WTF?! moment in the novel.
The flashback sequence plays like a loose sequel to the 1897 story and is the novel's centerpiece. I suspect it's also going to be the most troublesome section for some readers. There are moments that contradict exiting canon, but the continuity of DARK SHADOWS got messier and messier in the years leading to its cancellation. Edith Collins, for example, died twice on the show. Her second death was either a product of editorial oversight, or was collateral damage created by the show's many timeslips.
The continuity errors present in WOLF MOON RISING suggest a third possibility: Parker had something she wanted to say with the characters and valued her story more than she did fan service.
As an author, Parker gets DARK SHADOWS better than anyone who's been allowed a crack at the material since it left the airwaves in 1971. She gets it better than Tim Burton, who loves the show without really understanding how it works. She gets it better than the various writers who have worked on the tie-in novels, comics and audio dramas over the years, even though some of those products have had moments of brilliance. And, I dare say, Parker gets it better the show's original mastermind, DAN CURTIS, who arguably began to misunderstand the appeal of his own show before it was even cancelled.
WOLF MOON RISING has some continuity issues, which a few fans of the show will unironically take issue with. It can be a little unfocused at times as its ensemble cast fights among each other for prominence in the story. And it's got a nightmarish sense of reality and structure that wouldn't be out of place in a DAVID LYNCH movie. These elements might be a problem other novel, but only made it feel more like DARK SHADOWS to me.
(Note: this review was first published on the website THE COLLINSPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY.)
Even though WOLF MOON RISING would qualify as a gothic romance by anyone's definition, I was constantly reminded of PHILIP K. DICK throughout. Summarizing this novel is going to be a nightmare for critics, because there are no fewer than four stories humming along concurrently, each one of them laced with social and political satire that ranges from subtle to horrendously violent. There's a ton of backstory involved, not only from Parker's previous novel, but from the television series, as well. And GRAYSON HALL fans are probably going to be pissed.
In other words, there's a lot happening in the book. Possibly enough to fill a year's worth of stories in the original series.
Minor spoilers follow.
Picking up a few weeks after the conclusion of THE SALEM BRANCH, we're introduced to a new status quo at Collinwood. Barnabas Collins is again a vampire, as is Dr. Julia Hoffman. As you might expect, Barnabas isn't entirely happy with the situation. He not only hates what he's (again) become, but despises Hoffman's submissive new role. The more she tries to please him, the more he resents her, leading to a shockingly cruel resolution to this conflict in the book's early pages.
If that wasn't enough, Barnabas decides to follow through on his plan to sabotage the happiness of Quentin Collins by destroying the magical painting that keeps his werewolf curse at bay, and provides him a unique form of immortality. Meanwhile, a man claiming to be the relative of Nicholas Blair arrives at Collinwood in search of a vampire, while David Collins and his haunted companion, Jackie Harpignies, take an expected trip back to Collinwood's heyday in the Roaring Twenties.
While it all sounds simple enough, the level of absurd mayhem in WOLF MOON RISING is sometimes astonishing. While Parker has literary goals, she never lets go of the bizarre elements that made DARK SHADOWS special. The book can be quiet and lean when it wants to be, such as in Jackie's increasingly lonely encounters with school bullies. But it can also go full CHAN-WOOK PARK, sometimes to its own detriment. The "1920s Flashback" doesn't so much climax as it cascades, as bootleggers, organized crime and the Ku Klux Klan leave permanent scars on Collinwood in quick order. With DARK SHADOWS, it's always hard to tell when too much is too much, and this leg of the story might actually bend credulity past its breaking point.
Then again, it might all have been worth it for the moment of a young Elizabeth (not-yet-Stoddard) Collins riding the sideboard of a luxury car, blasting away at mobsters with a revolver.
The novel also touches on some of the favorite themes of the original television series. While the daytime program had to abide by the nebulous standards of network censors, Parker's under no such restraints. As it turns out, Louis Edmonds' famous "incestors" blooper had some basis in fact. Yeah, the relationship between Barnabas and Carolyn (not to mention his relationship with Victoria Winters, since we were lead to believe she was also a Collins) was always icky. In WOLF MOON RISING, though, Parker calls it what it is. Jameson Collins, played in the 1897 story by a young DAVID HENESY, is a grown man in the 1920s flashback, and is furious by the previously unrevealed affair between his daughter, Elizabeth, and his immortal uncle, Quentin. The "I" word is used, and it's not not pretty.
And it's not even the biggest WTF?! moment in the novel.
The flashback sequence plays like a loose sequel to the 1897 story and is the novel's centerpiece. I suspect it's also going to be the most troublesome section for some readers. There are moments that contradict exiting canon, but the continuity of DARK SHADOWS got messier and messier in the years leading to its cancellation. Edith Collins, for example, died twice on the show. Her second death was either a product of editorial oversight, or was collateral damage created by the show's many timeslips.
The continuity errors present in WOLF MOON RISING suggest a third possibility: Parker had something she wanted to say with the characters and valued her story more than she did fan service.
As an author, Parker gets DARK SHADOWS better than anyone who's been allowed a crack at the material since it left the airwaves in 1971. She gets it better than Tim Burton, who loves the show without really understanding how it works. She gets it better than the various writers who have worked on the tie-in novels, comics and audio dramas over the years, even though some of those products have had moments of brilliance. And, I dare say, Parker gets it better the show's original mastermind, DAN CURTIS, who arguably began to misunderstand the appeal of his own show before it was even cancelled.
WOLF MOON RISING has some continuity issues, which a few fans of the show will unironically take issue with. It can be a little unfocused at times as its ensemble cast fights among each other for prominence in the story. And it's got a nightmarish sense of reality and structure that wouldn't be out of place in a DAVID LYNCH movie. These elements might be a problem other novel, but only made it feel more like DARK SHADOWS to me.
(Note: this review was first published on the website THE COLLINSPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY.)
August 23, 2013
GENRE: Paranormal
THEME: Vampires, Witches Romance, Werewolves
RECEIVED: Publisher
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I was super excited to have an updated and continued storyline to a classic television show called Dark Shadows. As I haven’t seen the 1970s version I own the 90s version which I absolutely loved. What I found that attracted me most to the story is that the author of this novel was the actress who portrayed Angelique in the original TV version. I can really tell from her writing how much this show and now novels mean to her personally, there is so much thought and details that are reminiscent of the television show. I also haven’t read the other two novel that were before this but if you’re a fan of any of the television shows I feel this was a great stand alone to get sucked into.
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon follows a complex group of entertaining characters such as: A young boy David Collins who has fallen in love with Jacqueline, who lives in the Old House as is actually the reincarnation of Angelique. She lives in the Old House with her mother Antoinette after its been restored from a fire. Then there is of course Barnabas Collins the vampire and Quentin Collins the werewolf both competing for Antoinette. Unfortunately for Quentin he’s having some problems with his wolf, as his painting has gone missing it’s the only thing that helps his turning. All the while David and Jacqueline are helping with the search are mysteriously sent back in the 20s where David learns about the Collins family secrets.
For me this is a difficult book to review since there is so much happening and the characters themselves along with the storyline are complex. I did feel a little lost at times, but I think that what’s supposed to happen in the Dark Shadows world. If you’re a fan of the shows and past books chaotic circumstances that occur, this plot will seem very normal. What is truly great about how Parker wrote this story is that I felt like I was watching the show again, it had the same tonnage, paranormal elements of mystery, the characters who seems to never change, and the romance that always circulates the family.
The downside of this novel is that if I hadn’t known who these characters already were then I would be completely lost. I feel this is a book for the fans and it is dedicated to the fans as Parker mentions in the dedication. It may be hard for those who are just picking up this book and I would probably recommend reading at least the first book Parker wrote.
In the end the crazy moments are all there, with all the paranormal goodies of witches, vampires, werewolves that always follow the unusual Collins family. There is also a lot of danger for them as a paranormal expert seeks a vampire. But I’m only mentioning some of the fun without giving away too much, let’s just say paranormal lovers should read this book and be prepared for something out of this world.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with all that will jump the reader back in time to some exciting and strange tales of a very strange family. Fans of gothic novels will enjoy Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon by Lara Parker.
THEME: Vampires, Witches Romance, Werewolves
RECEIVED: Publisher
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I was super excited to have an updated and continued storyline to a classic television show called Dark Shadows. As I haven’t seen the 1970s version I own the 90s version which I absolutely loved. What I found that attracted me most to the story is that the author of this novel was the actress who portrayed Angelique in the original TV version. I can really tell from her writing how much this show and now novels mean to her personally, there is so much thought and details that are reminiscent of the television show. I also haven’t read the other two novel that were before this but if you’re a fan of any of the television shows I feel this was a great stand alone to get sucked into.
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon follows a complex group of entertaining characters such as: A young boy David Collins who has fallen in love with Jacqueline, who lives in the Old House as is actually the reincarnation of Angelique. She lives in the Old House with her mother Antoinette after its been restored from a fire. Then there is of course Barnabas Collins the vampire and Quentin Collins the werewolf both competing for Antoinette. Unfortunately for Quentin he’s having some problems with his wolf, as his painting has gone missing it’s the only thing that helps his turning. All the while David and Jacqueline are helping with the search are mysteriously sent back in the 20s where David learns about the Collins family secrets.
For me this is a difficult book to review since there is so much happening and the characters themselves along with the storyline are complex. I did feel a little lost at times, but I think that what’s supposed to happen in the Dark Shadows world. If you’re a fan of the shows and past books chaotic circumstances that occur, this plot will seem very normal. What is truly great about how Parker wrote this story is that I felt like I was watching the show again, it had the same tonnage, paranormal elements of mystery, the characters who seems to never change, and the romance that always circulates the family.
The downside of this novel is that if I hadn’t known who these characters already were then I would be completely lost. I feel this is a book for the fans and it is dedicated to the fans as Parker mentions in the dedication. It may be hard for those who are just picking up this book and I would probably recommend reading at least the first book Parker wrote.
In the end the crazy moments are all there, with all the paranormal goodies of witches, vampires, werewolves that always follow the unusual Collins family. There is also a lot of danger for them as a paranormal expert seeks a vampire. But I’m only mentioning some of the fun without giving away too much, let’s just say paranormal lovers should read this book and be prepared for something out of this world.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with all that will jump the reader back in time to some exciting and strange tales of a very strange family. Fans of gothic novels will enjoy Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon by Lara Parker.
September 20, 2013
Excellent storytelling! This book is really a dark tale so if any Dark Shadows fans are looking for an extension of the same personalities from TV, this isn't the place to come to. While we have well-known characters, they are often haunted, dangerous, vengeful and selfish so no happy endings here. Being set during the winter gives a good indication where the author is going with this tale.
I am glad we got a good dose of David in this story as I think this Collins family member often gets overlooked in the DS tome. Nice to see him grown up, though facing the typical problems that anyone who lives at Collinwood does. He handles them with confidence, bravery and I appreciate getting this glimpse into his older personality.
There were some sweet events, some truly frightening and some gory. I loved it all! :)
And all this being said, And that's all I'm going to say about that...
Highly recommend, but would first suggest reading the previous books penned by this author as some story lines are continued here.
I am glad we got a good dose of David in this story as I think this Collins family member often gets overlooked in the DS tome. Nice to see him grown up, though facing the typical problems that anyone who lives at Collinwood does. He handles them with confidence, bravery and I appreciate getting this glimpse into his older personality.
There were some sweet events, some truly frightening and some gory. I loved it all! :)
And all this being said, And that's all I'm going to say about that...
Highly recommend, but would first suggest reading the previous books penned by this author as some story lines are continued here.
December 23, 2021
An interesting peek into the Collins family. It was the movie adaptation that brought me to this book, so I was hoping for more Barnabas. Knowing the film helped me keep the characters straight. I didn't find the plot that gripping, and typos drove me nuts, but the characters got more intriguing in the second half of the story.
September 24, 2013
This is actress and author Lara Parker's third book based on characters in the gothic soap, Dark Shadows. While the first two focused on Angelique, Parker's character, this one focuses on Quentin Collins. Quentin has two problems in the book, both of which are familiar to fans of the soap. His "Dorian Gray-type portrait is missing, and he is starting to age. And, with the portrait gone, he is also reverting to a werewolf when the moon is full. Add in Barnabas Collins' vampire, and the residents of Collinsport have some real problems on their hands. Other subplots include young David's relationship with the mysterious Jackie, who may or may not be a witch, seances and time travel, sending David and Jackie back to the 1920s, where David learns some of the secrets his family has kept for decades. All in all, a wonderful return to Collinwood for us fans of the show.
September 19, 2013
Old friends and new, vile fiends. The living, the dead, the undead, and the immortal all existing together in the strange tapestry known as Collinwood. No one is as he or she seems, and secrets are as palpable and elusive as the shadows that lurk in every corner.
Quentin’s portrait is missing, and with every passing hour, his chances for a normal existence grow slimmer and slimmer. He blames Antoinette, who in turn blames her daughter, Jackie, for the disappearance of this most important piece of artwork.
David Collins, besotted by Jackie’s mysterious aura, has sworn to do everything in his power to help her find the picture and return it to its rightful owner. But the only clue is a vision that Jackie has of its location, and it is not very clear.
Meanwhile, other denizens of the paranormal are seeping out of the foundation of the house. Barnabas, who has returned to the world of the undead, now has a companion: Dr. Julia Hoffman, the physician who had made him human again, and in the process turned the curse upon herself. Barnabas still yearns for Antoinette, and will do anything to have her. He despises Julia for her thoughtless decision to enter into his world of misery. His decisions almost costs him his existence.
David and Jackie pursue their own ideas, about themselves, each other, and the portrait. When a short ride in a mysterious green Duisenberg causes them to travel back in time to the 1920s, David finds that many of his forebears had dark secrets of their own. He also finds–a second portrait. But will it do the magic that is needed to restore Quentin to a normal life?
Who is hiding what? Can anyone be trusted? What is the relationship between Elizabeth, the matriarch of the family, and Quentin? What is the shameful secret intimated by Dr. Blair, who ramrods his way into Collinwood, seeking answers and fame?
And always, like the faraway beat of a drum in the night: Angelique, Angelique, Angelique.
David, with the stubborn, hard-headed attitude he’s always had, may be the only person who can get to the bottom of the mysteries surrounding his home, and be the sole savior of his family’s lives.
Yep, I’m one of those kids who “raced home every day after school” to immerse myself in the series “Dark Shadows”. This past week I’ve been racing home from work to immerse myself in this book.
Ms. Parker has done a beautiful job bringing these characters back to life. In this, her third book of the series, she has woven a spell-binding story that has captured the true spirit of “Dark Shadows”. The nuances and gestures are exactly what I remember–made more clear by watching the series recently–and even the placement of furniture and room appointments are spot-on.
The story line follows what a “Dark Shadows” aficionado would expect, but where the thread goes is all new.
Any child who was ever a victim of bullying would definitely be delighted by how Jackie solves the problem of the boys who follow her through the woods, their purposes far more sinister than mere taunting.
And the nod to “Casablanca”–I was happily surprised. That was a lot of fun.
There are the original characters, of course, but Ms. Parker has brought us new villains to boo and new heroes to cheer. Her descriptions of, well, everything–from the falling snow to the lolling tongues of coyotes in the woods–are so real and life-like, the reader would swear he/she was right in the middle of the story.
Perhaps you are…
And, just like the series, it ended all too soon. Ms. Parker, I hope you have another story on its way. I miss the world of Collinwood already.
Quentin’s portrait is missing, and with every passing hour, his chances for a normal existence grow slimmer and slimmer. He blames Antoinette, who in turn blames her daughter, Jackie, for the disappearance of this most important piece of artwork.
David Collins, besotted by Jackie’s mysterious aura, has sworn to do everything in his power to help her find the picture and return it to its rightful owner. But the only clue is a vision that Jackie has of its location, and it is not very clear.
Meanwhile, other denizens of the paranormal are seeping out of the foundation of the house. Barnabas, who has returned to the world of the undead, now has a companion: Dr. Julia Hoffman, the physician who had made him human again, and in the process turned the curse upon herself. Barnabas still yearns for Antoinette, and will do anything to have her. He despises Julia for her thoughtless decision to enter into his world of misery. His decisions almost costs him his existence.
David and Jackie pursue their own ideas, about themselves, each other, and the portrait. When a short ride in a mysterious green Duisenberg causes them to travel back in time to the 1920s, David finds that many of his forebears had dark secrets of their own. He also finds–a second portrait. But will it do the magic that is needed to restore Quentin to a normal life?
Who is hiding what? Can anyone be trusted? What is the relationship between Elizabeth, the matriarch of the family, and Quentin? What is the shameful secret intimated by Dr. Blair, who ramrods his way into Collinwood, seeking answers and fame?
And always, like the faraway beat of a drum in the night: Angelique, Angelique, Angelique.
David, with the stubborn, hard-headed attitude he’s always had, may be the only person who can get to the bottom of the mysteries surrounding his home, and be the sole savior of his family’s lives.
Yep, I’m one of those kids who “raced home every day after school” to immerse myself in the series “Dark Shadows”. This past week I’ve been racing home from work to immerse myself in this book.
Ms. Parker has done a beautiful job bringing these characters back to life. In this, her third book of the series, she has woven a spell-binding story that has captured the true spirit of “Dark Shadows”. The nuances and gestures are exactly what I remember–made more clear by watching the series recently–and even the placement of furniture and room appointments are spot-on.
The story line follows what a “Dark Shadows” aficionado would expect, but where the thread goes is all new.
Any child who was ever a victim of bullying would definitely be delighted by how Jackie solves the problem of the boys who follow her through the woods, their purposes far more sinister than mere taunting.
And the nod to “Casablanca”–I was happily surprised. That was a lot of fun.
There are the original characters, of course, but Ms. Parker has brought us new villains to boo and new heroes to cheer. Her descriptions of, well, everything–from the falling snow to the lolling tongues of coyotes in the woods–are so real and life-like, the reader would swear he/she was right in the middle of the story.
Perhaps you are…
And, just like the series, it ended all too soon. Ms. Parker, I hope you have another story on its way. I miss the world of Collinwood already.
July 12, 2013
Cross-posted from: http://www.chicksgetlit.com/
First 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?
First 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?
September 2, 2013
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising is a new book by actress Lara Parker, who's best known for her role as Angelique on the television series Dark Shadows, which aired on ABC from 1966-71. In 1998 she wrote her first novel, Dark Shadows: Angelique's Descent, published by HarperPrism (reissued by Tor Books in 2012). Parker followed this with Dark Shadows: The Salem Branch (Tor, 2006), which was also reissued last year.
Wolf Moon Rising is the second novel in The Salem Branch series, with a story that revolves around the werewolf Quentin Collins. Although the author definitely does justice to the characters and setting of the television series, the story features some elements that seem too out of place for Dark Shadows--and her writing style leaves something to be desired.
Read the full review at my blog, http://www.bradmiddleton.ca/2013/09/d...
Wolf Moon Rising is the second novel in The Salem Branch series, with a story that revolves around the werewolf Quentin Collins. Although the author definitely does justice to the characters and setting of the television series, the story features some elements that seem too out of place for Dark Shadows--and her writing style leaves something to be desired.
Read the full review at my blog, http://www.bradmiddleton.ca/2013/09/d...
November 16, 2013
Overly written and frankly dull. Dark Shadows as seen through Lara Parker channeling Anne Rice (unsuccessfully). The characters often don't act like they did on the show, and I find it hard to believe that Elizabeth was a film star a la Joan Bennett and this is the first we've heard of it.
August 25, 2013
Nice job Lara. this fits into the storyline convincingly enough. Keep them coming
February 18, 2024
Each Lara Parker DS book gets odder and odder! The first one felt like a plausible extension of the DS universe, the second felt like a bit of a stretch, and this one has a total lack of continuity with the original show. (Which, to be clear, is fine. We can accept it as yet another Parallel Time!) But it also breaks some of the traditional DS rules. Vampiric nature doesn't function like it does in the show (it seems obvious that Parker read some Anne Rice before writing this book). She does the "real American history is the horror" trope, which normally I love, but it's not true to the spirit of DS, which has always existed in its own fantastical universe apart from regular world history. There's also some weird, overdone metaphors and similes, and she made the very strange choice to conflate the character of Elizabeth Stoddard with the real-life history of actress Joan Bennett.
And yet, I'll admit I totally enjoyed it. It was absolutely madcap and full of plot twists. Some scenes were pitch-perfect DS with the exact kinds of plots and scenes that the original series would have done. I could picture exactly how the staging and performance would be on the show. I also found the subplot of the two teenagers quite compelling.
And yet, I'll admit I totally enjoyed it. It was absolutely madcap and full of plot twists. Some scenes were pitch-perfect DS with the exact kinds of plots and scenes that the original series would have done. I could picture exactly how the staging and performance would be on the show. I also found the subplot of the two teenagers quite compelling.
January 8, 2017
There's a whole lot going on in this book and that may be its main problem. There's just too much going on.
David, 16, is in love with a girl named Jackie.
Jackie is partially Angelique. (It's sort of complicated)
Barnabas gets savaged by a wolf.
Julia ends up a vampire.
The portrait of Quentin that keeps him young is destroyed, painted anew, unsigned, and worked with.
A Dusenberg car takes David and Jackie back to 1929. (No explanation how, of course.)
We find out about how nasty one of the Collins was back then.
A woman named Antoinette falls under Barnabas' power.
Massive destruction of a greenhouse.
Feds and thugs.
An insane artist.
A wild Liz.
A Blair that is a mad scientist who is into vivisection.
And that's not all. I think you can see that there is just too much going on. I think a book about Quentin's origin and past could have been doing including the 1929 portion of this book and the hunt for the artwork but Blair and Julia both could have easily been dropped. So could Antoinette. Even David and Jackie could have been dropped. Those things put together could have made a separate book.
David, 16, is in love with a girl named Jackie.
Jackie is partially Angelique. (It's sort of complicated)
Barnabas gets savaged by a wolf.
Julia ends up a vampire.
The portrait of Quentin that keeps him young is destroyed, painted anew, unsigned, and worked with.
A Dusenberg car takes David and Jackie back to 1929. (No explanation how, of course.)
We find out about how nasty one of the Collins was back then.
A woman named Antoinette falls under Barnabas' power.
Massive destruction of a greenhouse.
Feds and thugs.
An insane artist.
A wild Liz.
A Blair that is a mad scientist who is into vivisection.
And that's not all. I think you can see that there is just too much going on. I think a book about Quentin's origin and past could have been doing including the 1929 portion of this book and the hunt for the artwork but Blair and Julia both could have easily been dropped. So could Antoinette. Even David and Jackie could have been dropped. Those things put together could have made a separate book.
January 2, 2025
Sure thing!
**Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising** by Lara Parker is a captivating addition to the Dark Shadows universe. Lara Parker, who played the iconic witch Angelique on the original TV series, brings her deep understanding of the characters and lore to this novel.
The story revolves around Quentin Collins, whose portrait, which has kept him young and prevented his werewolf curse, goes missing. As Quentin dreads the full moon, David, the young heir to the Collins fortune, falls in love with Jacqueline, a reincarnation of Angelique. The plot takes thrilling twists as David and Jacqueline are swept back in time to the Prohibition era, uncovering dark family secrets.
Parker's writing is rich and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the gothic essence of the Dark Shadows series. While Angelique and Barnabas Collins are central to the series, Parker successfully expands the cast, giving other characters depth and new dimensions.
This novel is a fitting tribute to Lara Parker's legacy and a must-read for fans of the Dark Shadows series. Her passing earlier this year is a great loss, but her contributions to the world of Dark Shadows will be remembered and cherished.
Stay Dark 🧛♂️
**Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising** by Lara Parker is a captivating addition to the Dark Shadows universe. Lara Parker, who played the iconic witch Angelique on the original TV series, brings her deep understanding of the characters and lore to this novel.
The story revolves around Quentin Collins, whose portrait, which has kept him young and prevented his werewolf curse, goes missing. As Quentin dreads the full moon, David, the young heir to the Collins fortune, falls in love with Jacqueline, a reincarnation of Angelique. The plot takes thrilling twists as David and Jacqueline are swept back in time to the Prohibition era, uncovering dark family secrets.
Parker's writing is rich and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the gothic essence of the Dark Shadows series. While Angelique and Barnabas Collins are central to the series, Parker successfully expands the cast, giving other characters depth and new dimensions.
This novel is a fitting tribute to Lara Parker's legacy and a must-read for fans of the Dark Shadows series. Her passing earlier this year is a great loss, but her contributions to the world of Dark Shadows will be remembered and cherished.
Stay Dark 🧛♂️
November 30, 2024
Having been a fan of Dark Shadows and having read the first two books by Lara Parker (Angelique), I came across Wolf Moon Rising the third in the series. I wasn’t disappointed.
This book is about a portrait that has kept a youthful appearance for more than a century for Quentin Collins. It has also kept his werewolf curse at bay until the portrait is lost, and Quentin begins to dread the full moon.
Dr. Nathanial Blair, an expert in the paranormal, has come to Collinwood because he suspects it of harboring a vampire, but what Blair discovers places the entire Collins family in jeopardy.
Meanwhile, David, who is now sixteen years old, has fallen in love with Jacqueline, a young girl living in the Old House, is a reincarnation of Angelique. Both, David and Jacqueline, are swept back in time to the Prohibition Era of the 1920’s, where Davi uncovers dark secrets of the Collins family history.
Very good read for Dark Shadows readers and beyond!
This book is about a portrait that has kept a youthful appearance for more than a century for Quentin Collins. It has also kept his werewolf curse at bay until the portrait is lost, and Quentin begins to dread the full moon.
Dr. Nathanial Blair, an expert in the paranormal, has come to Collinwood because he suspects it of harboring a vampire, but what Blair discovers places the entire Collins family in jeopardy.
Meanwhile, David, who is now sixteen years old, has fallen in love with Jacqueline, a young girl living in the Old House, is a reincarnation of Angelique. Both, David and Jacqueline, are swept back in time to the Prohibition Era of the 1920’s, where Davi uncovers dark secrets of the Collins family history.
Very good read for Dark Shadows readers and beyond!
October 26, 2025
I wish Lara Parker had a chance to write more novels, while she was alive. She is truly a gifted storyteller. I enjoyed Wolf Moon Rising so much. We get to spend time with many beloved (and hated) Dark Shadows' characters in this novel: Quentin, Barnabas, Julia, David, and even Elizabeth and Carolyn. We learn a lot about the Collins family history. We get vampires, werewolves, witches, seances, and even time travel in this novel.
I would be lying if I said that I did not feel the length of this novel a bit. It could have been a little shorter, but still, I thoroughly enjoyed Wolf Moon Rising. I like how short Dan "Marilyn" Ross's Dark Shadows novels are. I can easily finish them in a day or two, but I absolutely love Lara Parker's prose, and I feel that the characters really come alive in her novels.
I would be lying if I said that I did not feel the length of this novel a bit. It could have been a little shorter, but still, I thoroughly enjoyed Wolf Moon Rising. I like how short Dan "Marilyn" Ross's Dark Shadows novels are. I can easily finish them in a day or two, but I absolutely love Lara Parker's prose, and I feel that the characters really come alive in her novels.
December 16, 2019
What happened to David Collins?
This story is more about a 16yr old David Collins and the curious girl he loves, Jacqueline. It is a good story centered around the portrait of Quentin Collins that has kept him from aging and keeps him free of the curse of lycanthropy.
The story is very well written and although Barnabus Collins shows briefly, he is missed by this reader. What is seen of him is darker than he was on the tv series Dark Shadows. However, Lara Parker has taken those few moments of the beloved vampire and kept Barnabas as darkly sexy and delightfully taboo as any vampire of literary and film history.
The story did feel like it slowed in some places but it was worth it to read through those areas to The end.
This story is more about a 16yr old David Collins and the curious girl he loves, Jacqueline. It is a good story centered around the portrait of Quentin Collins that has kept him from aging and keeps him free of the curse of lycanthropy.
The story is very well written and although Barnabus Collins shows briefly, he is missed by this reader. What is seen of him is darker than he was on the tv series Dark Shadows. However, Lara Parker has taken those few moments of the beloved vampire and kept Barnabas as darkly sexy and delightfully taboo as any vampire of literary and film history.
The story did feel like it slowed in some places but it was worth it to read through those areas to The end.
May 12, 2017
First off I do really enjoy these books by Lara Parker. But sadly, this book just didn't hold my attention and I simply read in a skimming fashion through most of it. I was hoping to learn more about Quentin much like the first book was dedicated to Angelique but I just didn't get that. I was very annoyed by the paranormal doctor character (perhaps it is from so many show characters like him these days) with his more sadistic side than having any true interest or belief in the paranormal - ugh, his character was just so unnecessary.
August 20, 2018
Fun book for fans of the old 60's soap opera horror series Dark Shadows. It's like meeting old friends again. You can hear the voices of each character as you read the novel. The author Lara Parker played Angelique on the series so she knows these characters and how to make them come back to life for the fans.
November 24, 2023
I didn't like this one as much as Angelique's Descent and The Salem Branch, but ot had its moments.
This one seems a little less focused for much of the book, but does tie together by the end.
We get to explore Quentin, Elizabeth, Jackie, and David much more and this book further expanda upon Lara Parker's alternate version of Dark Shadows with an interesting 1929 flashback.
This one seems a little less focused for much of the book, but does tie together by the end.
We get to explore Quentin, Elizabeth, Jackie, and David much more and this book further expanda upon Lara Parker's alternate version of Dark Shadows with an interesting 1929 flashback.
February 20, 2021
Fine as a stand alone story. With many going ons. However it did feel as though you arrived in the middle of a supernatural sitcom it would likely be better to read earlier works or look at more of the books or even the tv series to connect it all.
October 27, 2019
YES I TRUELY REMEMBER THIS GUY. I LIKED THE ENIRE CREW. I THINK THIS IS AWESOME BOOK🤙🤙
June 1, 2020
This one is my favorite book so far in the series. One more left to read...
September 3, 2013
Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising by Lara Parker is a Tor Forge publication and was released in August,2013.
The "Dorian Gray" type portrait of Quentin Collins has gone missing. This portrait keeps Quentin forever young, but also prevents him from turning into a werewolf during the full moon.
Barnabas Collins is a vampire once again. However, he soon discovers he is no match more the werewolf side of Quentin Collins.
David Collins, is in love with Jackie, who lives at the "old house" with her mother. Jackie is the reincarnation of the notorious witch, Angelique. Angelique was the one that cursed Barnabas to a life of the undead, as punishment for choosing he beloved Josette over her.
Now with several mysterious deaths in Collinwood, a relative of the warlock, Nicholas Blair has arrived determined to unearth the dark secrets of the Collins family and write a book.
In the meantime, David and Jackie are desperate to locate the portrait of Quentin and find themselves transported back into the roaring twenties.
For me this book was like a tribute to the OLD Dark Shadows television show. As other reviewers of this books have pointed out, it would be a good idea to be at least moderately familiar with the show to truly enjoy this book.
As it's been stated, the author of this book is Lara Parker, the actress that portrayed the diabolical Angelique on the show.
Ms. Parker incorporated old story lines from the show into the book, and created new characters and stories as well. She did an excellent job of recreating the spooky Gothic feel of the show. I was once more at Collinwood, remembering the Old House, The Blue Whale Tavern, Widow's Hill, Quentin's theme, time travel, and of course who could possibly forget the tormented vampire- Barnabas Collins.
I loved this new story with most of our favorite characters involved. There was Elizabeth Stoddard, Roger, Magna, Carolyn, Julia Hoffman, David's mother, the Phoenix, and Willie Loomis. Notably absent was Maggie Evans and Victoria Winters.
Dark Shadows popularity was incredibly unique. How many daytime soap operas can you name that were made into major motions pictures, and are available on DVD, that spawned countless collectable items and series of books written by "Marilyn Ross"? Amazing.
The show in it's prime was cutting edge. I LOVED all the old costumes. The show was almost like watching live theatre.
When I saw this book on Netgalley I was thrilled. I love the cover of the book, featuring Quentin.
It was great fun to catch up with old characters and meet new ones, and go on another time tripping journey back into the twenties, which was such a fun era. This book is a must for all Dark Shadows fans.
For those of you who are wondering what all the hype is about, if you have Netflix, you can watch the series from the beginning to end on DVD. It's a fascinating piece of history and even after all these years we are still interested in these characters, and that's saying something.
Just for fun- visit my blog at http://www.cluereview.blogspot.com for a video clip of Lara Parker portraying Angelique in a scene that included Quentin Collins.
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the DRC of this book.
The "Dorian Gray" type portrait of Quentin Collins has gone missing. This portrait keeps Quentin forever young, but also prevents him from turning into a werewolf during the full moon.
Barnabas Collins is a vampire once again. However, he soon discovers he is no match more the werewolf side of Quentin Collins.
David Collins, is in love with Jackie, who lives at the "old house" with her mother. Jackie is the reincarnation of the notorious witch, Angelique. Angelique was the one that cursed Barnabas to a life of the undead, as punishment for choosing he beloved Josette over her.
Now with several mysterious deaths in Collinwood, a relative of the warlock, Nicholas Blair has arrived determined to unearth the dark secrets of the Collins family and write a book.
In the meantime, David and Jackie are desperate to locate the portrait of Quentin and find themselves transported back into the roaring twenties.
For me this book was like a tribute to the OLD Dark Shadows television show. As other reviewers of this books have pointed out, it would be a good idea to be at least moderately familiar with the show to truly enjoy this book.
As it's been stated, the author of this book is Lara Parker, the actress that portrayed the diabolical Angelique on the show.
Ms. Parker incorporated old story lines from the show into the book, and created new characters and stories as well. She did an excellent job of recreating the spooky Gothic feel of the show. I was once more at Collinwood, remembering the Old House, The Blue Whale Tavern, Widow's Hill, Quentin's theme, time travel, and of course who could possibly forget the tormented vampire- Barnabas Collins.
I loved this new story with most of our favorite characters involved. There was Elizabeth Stoddard, Roger, Magna, Carolyn, Julia Hoffman, David's mother, the Phoenix, and Willie Loomis. Notably absent was Maggie Evans and Victoria Winters.
Dark Shadows popularity was incredibly unique. How many daytime soap operas can you name that were made into major motions pictures, and are available on DVD, that spawned countless collectable items and series of books written by "Marilyn Ross"? Amazing.
The show in it's prime was cutting edge. I LOVED all the old costumes. The show was almost like watching live theatre.
When I saw this book on Netgalley I was thrilled. I love the cover of the book, featuring Quentin.
It was great fun to catch up with old characters and meet new ones, and go on another time tripping journey back into the twenties, which was such a fun era. This book is a must for all Dark Shadows fans.
For those of you who are wondering what all the hype is about, if you have Netflix, you can watch the series from the beginning to end on DVD. It's a fascinating piece of history and even after all these years we are still interested in these characters, and that's saying something.
Just for fun- visit my blog at http://www.cluereview.blogspot.com for a video clip of Lara Parker portraying Angelique in a scene that included Quentin Collins.
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the DRC of this book.
March 31, 2015
The web of secrets and lies of the Collins family becomes ever more tangled in Lara Parker’s third entry in the series. While Barnabas Collins becomes accustomed to being a vampire once more, David Collins and his girlfriend Jacqueline Harpignies (the current Angelique incarnation) embark on a trip to 1929 to aid Quentin Collins, whose lost portrait spells doom for both him and the family, as his immortal coil is cut and his suppressed werewolf side begins to resurface.
Ms. Parker really turns up the power here, picking up on some of the dangling plot threads left over from THE SALEM BRANCH and sending most of the main characters off on their own separate paths. It feels as if there is so much more going on in this book than in the previous one, from the machinations of would-be vampire hunter Dr. Nathaniel Blair (a relation to the late Nicholas Blair of the TV series) to Quentin’s quest to escape his fate, to the bond between David and Jacqueline and Barnabas’s macabre pursuit of Antoinette Harpignies. As it was with the source material, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the mystery, suspense, romance and horror of Collinwood. The werewolf and vampire sequences are especially terrifying. This is classic gothic horror dusted off and restored to its pristine glory.
David Collins has evolved from a juvenile background character into virtually the new leading character of the series. He holds his own in scenes with Blair and even his own father, the formal and aloof Roger Collins, but David’s most defining signs of character development stem from his growing awareness of the legacies of Barnabas, Quentin, and to a lesser extent, Angelique. David not only becomes immersed in the supernatural environs of his home, but adapts to it quite well, even going on his own modest journey back in time to the Prohibition Era, where he discovers even more shameful family secrets. It’s a change that never made it to the TV series and is easily one of the best qualities of Ms. Parker’s novels.
A rather nice touch is that the conclusion has the feel of a season finale, and the last pages include a cast of characters as well as a list of the more prominent locations featured, evoking memories of the closing credits as if this were merely a lost episode just now being discovered.
Perhaps a fourth novel is in the works, as Dark Shadows is far from over. Here’s hoping Lara Parker already has the pen to the paper, and will continue to tell the tale for a long time to come.
Ms. Parker really turns up the power here, picking up on some of the dangling plot threads left over from THE SALEM BRANCH and sending most of the main characters off on their own separate paths. It feels as if there is so much more going on in this book than in the previous one, from the machinations of would-be vampire hunter Dr. Nathaniel Blair (a relation to the late Nicholas Blair of the TV series) to Quentin’s quest to escape his fate, to the bond between David and Jacqueline and Barnabas’s macabre pursuit of Antoinette Harpignies. As it was with the source material, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the mystery, suspense, romance and horror of Collinwood. The werewolf and vampire sequences are especially terrifying. This is classic gothic horror dusted off and restored to its pristine glory.
David Collins has evolved from a juvenile background character into virtually the new leading character of the series. He holds his own in scenes with Blair and even his own father, the formal and aloof Roger Collins, but David’s most defining signs of character development stem from his growing awareness of the legacies of Barnabas, Quentin, and to a lesser extent, Angelique. David not only becomes immersed in the supernatural environs of his home, but adapts to it quite well, even going on his own modest journey back in time to the Prohibition Era, where he discovers even more shameful family secrets. It’s a change that never made it to the TV series and is easily one of the best qualities of Ms. Parker’s novels.
A rather nice touch is that the conclusion has the feel of a season finale, and the last pages include a cast of characters as well as a list of the more prominent locations featured, evoking memories of the closing credits as if this were merely a lost episode just now being discovered.
Perhaps a fourth novel is in the works, as Dark Shadows is far from over. Here’s hoping Lara Parker already has the pen to the paper, and will continue to tell the tale for a long time to come.
September 5, 2013
Like other Dark Shadows fans, I waited over a year for this latest installment of Lara Parker's continuation of the series after the publisher pushed the publication date back. I dropped whatever else I was reading the day it arrived and plunged right in....and put it down after a few pages. I tried off and on for two weeks and have only made it through 25%. I have a policy not to waste time reading books I don't enjoy or are badly written. Life's too short. I won't be finishing this one.
While the plot blurb sounded deliriously delicious, virtually nothing happened in the first quarter of the book. David rode around endlessly on a snowmobile and Barnabas spied on the rest of the Collins family in the drawing room with endless back story and descriptions of the core characters.
Beyond the deadly dull pace with little action to advance the story, my biggest complaint is Parker's overly florid prose style. Not every noun needs an ornate adjective. A little of this goes a long way. Parker's biography states she has an MFA in creative writing. Please! This is creative writing 101 at its worst. I would expect this from a student after taking her first class, giddy at the amount of pretty metaphors she can cram into a single page, but not from someone who has allegedly "mastered" creative writing. I understand she teaches as well. The horror!
This book further supports my theory that Dark Shadows really can't be recreated in any form other than the one in which it originally appeared - as a low budget daily TV soap opera in the late 1960s. The 1990 revival didn't work. Tim Burton didn't work. Lara Parker's fiction doesn't work.
I hope more readers will set their "celebrity idolization" for Lara Parker aside and examine this book like any other piece of writing. Five stars suggest the book is outstanding - this one is average at best.
While the plot blurb sounded deliriously delicious, virtually nothing happened in the first quarter of the book. David rode around endlessly on a snowmobile and Barnabas spied on the rest of the Collins family in the drawing room with endless back story and descriptions of the core characters.
Beyond the deadly dull pace with little action to advance the story, my biggest complaint is Parker's overly florid prose style. Not every noun needs an ornate adjective. A little of this goes a long way. Parker's biography states she has an MFA in creative writing. Please! This is creative writing 101 at its worst. I would expect this from a student after taking her first class, giddy at the amount of pretty metaphors she can cram into a single page, but not from someone who has allegedly "mastered" creative writing. I understand she teaches as well. The horror!
This book further supports my theory that Dark Shadows really can't be recreated in any form other than the one in which it originally appeared - as a low budget daily TV soap opera in the late 1960s. The 1990 revival didn't work. Tim Burton didn't work. Lara Parker's fiction doesn't work.
I hope more readers will set their "celebrity idolization" for Lara Parker aside and examine this book like any other piece of writing. Five stars suggest the book is outstanding - this one is average at best.
September 16, 2013
http://openbooksociety.com/article/da...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jacki
This was the first book I have read of the Dark Shadows series and I think I would have enjoyed this book a bit more if I would have started at the beginning. I feel I am lacking some of the great back-story some of Parker’s other readers will have by reading her previous two books or by seeing some of the television. I feel because the lack of knowledge in this series I was not able to appreciate this book as much as I could have under different circumstances. So, if you have not read the other books I would suggest taking the time to read those before embarking on this journey.
With that being said, the writing style Parker uses to create her books’ world is intriguingly descriptive. My general rule of thumb is to give a book 100 pages to grab me otherwise I tend to lay it down and move on to the next one in my stack and on page 83 Parker grabbed me when she wrote:
“When the largest key found the lock, David jiggled it back and forth, and tantalizingly, but with some rusty resistance, the bolt drew”
Wow! What a way to describe the simple task of unlocking a door!
Parker interweaves multiple story lines consisting of the Collins’s family money, family secrets and his undeniable love for Jacqueline. All are powerful and intriguing stories to the reader, but for me it was the family secrets that captured my attention. When Parker wrote:
“It became one more secret of the family, never to be mentioned again,”
I knew I would have to finish this book to learn what secrets the Collins family had and also to see if David and Jacqueline ended up with one another in the end.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jacki
This was the first book I have read of the Dark Shadows series and I think I would have enjoyed this book a bit more if I would have started at the beginning. I feel I am lacking some of the great back-story some of Parker’s other readers will have by reading her previous two books or by seeing some of the television. I feel because the lack of knowledge in this series I was not able to appreciate this book as much as I could have under different circumstances. So, if you have not read the other books I would suggest taking the time to read those before embarking on this journey.
With that being said, the writing style Parker uses to create her books’ world is intriguingly descriptive. My general rule of thumb is to give a book 100 pages to grab me otherwise I tend to lay it down and move on to the next one in my stack and on page 83 Parker grabbed me when she wrote:
“When the largest key found the lock, David jiggled it back and forth, and tantalizingly, but with some rusty resistance, the bolt drew”
Wow! What a way to describe the simple task of unlocking a door!
Parker interweaves multiple story lines consisting of the Collins’s family money, family secrets and his undeniable love for Jacqueline. All are powerful and intriguing stories to the reader, but for me it was the family secrets that captured my attention. When Parker wrote:
“It became one more secret of the family, never to be mentioned again,”
I knew I would have to finish this book to learn what secrets the Collins family had and also to see if David and Jacqueline ended up with one another in the end.
October 25, 2020
I'm a sucker for Quentin Collins!!! I think this is the highest rating I've given on a Dark Shadows novel so far... But Heiress of Collinwood might beat this one (I'm an even bigger sucker for Vicki Winters; I hated the way her story simply floated away in the series). I know the show was before my time, (given that I'm only 24) but I caught it on SyFy in syndication as a teenager and fell absolutely in love with the mystery and madness of Gothic Collinwood. I will say that the novels kind of confused me, in that there was little to no continuity between this and Angelique's Descent. I don't remember Quentin being in that one, or the hippie he falls for. I enjoyed seeing David grow up to care deeply for a person outside his phoenix of a mother, or the Leviathan child. I hope Lara Parker continues to give us more of the mystery and madness of Gothic Collinwood. Fingers crossed for a Maggie Evans/Josette (really hoped I spelled that right; please correct me kindly if I got it wrong....) centric story....
February 12, 2023
I've been looking forward to reading this book for awhile and was excited when I got a chance to read it from Netgalley.
I didn't really care for the second book in this series The Salem Branch as much as I liked Angelique's Descent, but it was interesting how things that happened in the book happened in the new movie.
Wolf Moon Rising was very good, I like how we get to know more about David and more of a back story for Elizabeth Collins-Stoddard. I really enjoyed how Lara Parker used Joan Bennett's life as a inspiration Liz, it made the story more real.
Reading books based on the show make me want to pull out my DVD's and start rewatching the entire series.
I didn't really care for the second book in this series The Salem Branch as much as I liked Angelique's Descent, but it was interesting how things that happened in the book happened in the new movie.
Wolf Moon Rising was very good, I like how we get to know more about David and more of a back story for Elizabeth Collins-Stoddard. I really enjoyed how Lara Parker used Joan Bennett's life as a inspiration Liz, it made the story more real.
Reading books based on the show make me want to pull out my DVD's and start rewatching the entire series.
October 30, 2013
An interesting revisiting of Collinwood and its strange inhabitants. Quentin, Barnabas, Elizabeth, Roger and Carolyn are all on hand, as well as a now teenage David Collins and the latest incarnation of the witch Angelique. The story involves the search for Quentin's magical portrait (which controls the werewolf curse), David's coming of age, and Barnabas' vampire issues. Throw in Dr. Julia Hoffman as a sadistic vampire, a side trip to 1929 Collinwood(with its bootlegging and KKK connection), bullying, and some gory killings, and you have a bizarre tale with an unexpected twist or two. As a "Dark Shadows" fan, I liked it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews