Dark Magic (novel)

Dark Magic is a paranormal romance novel by American author Christine Feehan, published in 2000. It is the second book in the Carpathian series, following Dark Prince and preceding Dark Challenge. The novel centers on the romance between Shea O'Halloran, a human woman with extraordinary empathy, and Jacques Dubrinsky, a Carpathian male struggling to maintain his honor and resist the allure of darkness.

The story explores themes of good versus evil, the burden of immortality, the power of love and connection, and the dangers of succumbing to a loss of humanity. Jacques, haunted by centuries of battling vampires and feeling the pull towards becoming one himself, finds hope and a reason to live in Shea's unconditional acceptance and potent psychic abilities.

The novel is set primarily in the Carpathian Mountains and features elements of suspense, action, and explicit sensuality. It expands upon the lore introduced in Dark Prince, detailing the Carpathian race, their vulnerabilities, and their ongoing fight against the undead. Dark Magic also further develops the worldbuilding by introducing new characters and delving deeper into the intricate social structures and traditions of the Carpathian people. It is considered a key installment in the Carpathian series and a foundational text for understanding the ongoing conflicts and relationships within the fictional universe.