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A Discovery of Witches

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Deborah Harkness

A Discovery of Witches

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

579

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Oxford, England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Discovery of Witches follows Dr. Diana Bishop, a witch and scholar who discovers an enchanted manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library. As she is drawn into a world of magic she has long denied, she meets the vampire Matthew Clairmont. Their forbidden romance deepens as they face threats from other witches, vampires, and daemons. Themes include self-identity, the importance of family, and the impact of prejudice. Topics include murder and torture.

Mysterious

Romantic

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

559,516 ratings

75%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Deborah Harkness's A Discovery of Witches captivates with its rich blend of history, science, and romance. Praised for detailed world-building and complex characters, it appeals to fans of supernatural fiction. However, some critique its pacing and dense exposition. Overall, it's an engaging start to the All Souls Trilogy, with minor flaws in execution.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Discovery of Witches?

A reader who enjoys A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness is typically enamored with rich, historical fiction intertwined with fantasy elements. Fans of Twilight by Stephenie Meyer or The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern will appreciate the blend of romance, supernatural intrigue, and detailed world-building.

4.3

559,516 ratings

75%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

579

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Oxford, England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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