62 pages • 2 hours read
A Discovery of Witches
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Book Brief
579
Novel • Fiction
Oxford, England • Contemporary
2011
Adult
18+ years
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
559,516 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
559,516 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
579
Novel • Fiction
Oxford, England • Contemporary
2011
Adult
18+ years
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