Dark Angel

Dark Angel (1994) Tracy Grant

Set in Spain and England in 1813

Adam Durward has used his ability with languages to move throughout Europe, gathering information. He also investigated issues in England, including the problem of exploding canon.

Caroline Rawley has known Adam since they were children. Once they were best friends, then things changed and they hadn’t spoken since Adam left for India. But when Adam is involved into a criminal investigation involving her husband, Caroline turns to Adam in the hopes he can help.

That’s the background, while the majority of the story involves Adam helping Caroline and her daughter escape from Spain.

Although these are romances (with boinking) that’s not why I find them so interesting. What is so compelling is the land and time they travel through.

The country was wild and beautiful. As they neared the River Tagus they came upon vineyards and olive trees and groves of oranges, their golden fruit giving promise of sun and plenty. But the ravages of war remained. Houses stood in ruin and village squares were overrun with weeds.

And the portrayal of war at the time.

“There were losses on both sides, that’s the way of battles. One expects to be slaughtered by the enemy.” He leaned forward, watching the surprise and incomprehension on Caroline’s face. “What one doesn’t expect is to be slaughtered by the incompetence and venality of one’s own side.”

Caroline’s eyes widened. “I don’t understand.”

“Most of the cannon blew up in their gunners’ faces,” Adam said slowly, spelling it out for her. “How many deaths do you think that caused, Caro? We were fighting the French. These were English deaths.”

Interestingly, another historical series I love, Diana Gabaldon‘s Lord John series, also has a story revolving around weak cannon that exploded and killed soldiers.

I also find it sad that passages like this don’t seem as far in the past as they used to.

“What do you think, Durward?” Forbes asked. “You’ve lived among the natives.”

Adam’s face was still expressionless, but his eyes had darkened. Caroline felt the tension coiled tight within him. “You’ll have to forgive me,” he said in a level voice. “Being a native myself, I’m really not qualified to answer that question.” He stood and looked at Captain Brixton. “If you’ll excuse me, sir, I think I’ll take the air.”

I do enjoy this series, and do recommend it.
Rating: 8/10

Publisher: NYLA

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