Angelique's Descent: Dark Shadows    by Lara Parker Order:  USA  Can Tor, 2012 (1988) Softcover, Paperback, e-Book      Reviewed by Wanda Plourde When Angelique was young, she was taken away from her mother by her father, who claimed that he could give her a better life. But this proved untrue, her father using her in strange ceremonies. Throughout her father's abuse, she became very knowledgeable in voodoo and a powerful woman in her own right. She even pledged herself to the devil and so became immortal. Eventually, putting aside witchcraft, she is employed as a lady's maid and starts to long for a better life. One night when she ventures out dressed as a lady, she meets a very handsome man, Barnabas Collins. He becomes ensnared by Angelique's exotic beauty and sensuality and claims to love her like no other. Angelique falls desperately in love with him only to have her heart ripped out when he is engaged to another. She vows to destroy him, first by tormenting him and then by damning him to life eternal as a vampire. What Angelique does not understand is that her action will have consequences. This is a very twisted and disturbing tale of a woman scorned and wanting retribution. It is one of those stories where you have a love/hate relationship with the leads. Angelique's life is very strange and yet very sad. The book truly earns its title, Dark Shadows. Once you start reading, be sure you have plenty of lights on because you never know what lurks right behind you. Note that author Lara Parker actually played the role of Angelique in the cult series Dark Shadows. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Romance books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews