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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

Publisher

Viking Penguin

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

Character List

Diana Bishop

An American historian and tenured professor at Yale, who is a reluctant witch hiding her powers. Her journey of self-discovery begins when she encounters a magical manuscript and Matthew Clairmont.

A 1500-year-old vampire, who is a brilliant scholar and scientist. He becomes involved with Diana and is initially interested in the magical manuscript Ashmole 782.

Matthew’s vampire mother who values family above all and is initially distrustful of Diana. Over time, Ysabeau’s attitude towards Diana softens.

Matthew’s vampire son, who is a skilled healer and scientist working alongside him. He becomes a leader within his community.

Diana’s aunt and a skilled witch, who is protective and somewhat skeptical of other supernatural creatures. She took care of Diana after the death of her parents.

A powerful and antagonistic wizard who is a member of the Congregation. He is determined to possess the magical manuscript and views witches as superior.

A daemon and a close friend of Matthew’s, who offers financial expertise with his supernatural abilities. He is emotionally stable for a daemon and holds a key role in Matthew's affairs.

A colleague of Matthew's in his genetics lab, who is cautious and initially disapproving of Diana. She provides a critical perspective on Matthew’s past.

Sarah Bishop’s partner, who possesses a powerful sixth sense and offers gentle support. She has a strong connection to Diana’s past and family secrets.

A daemon and part of the Congregation, who faces conflicts due to her family situation. She desires understanding and a future for her mixed-species family.

A daemon and the son of Agatha, who is protective of his family and focused on ensuring their safety. He joins forces to protect his family’s future.

A daemonic potter with visionary dreams, who fears persecution for her family. She seeks help to find a place for her abilities and heritage in the world.

Book Details
Pages

579

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Oxford, England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Publisher

Viking Penguin

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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