A Discovery of Witches

A Discovery of Witches is a romantic fantasy by American historian, professor, and author Deborah Harkness. Rocketing to popularity when first published in 2011, the novel received a starred review from Library Journal and became a New York Times Best Seller. The story follows Dr. Diana Bishop, a spellbound witch and scholar of 17th-century chemistry, whose life changes when she calls a long-lost, enchanted manuscript from the Bodleian Library. The handsome vampire Matthew Clairmont and the malevolent wizard Peter Knox are among the many creatures who covet the book. As Diana learns to accept her birthright and embrace her magic, she and Matthew fall in love. Together they face increasing danger from creatures who will stop at nothing to end Diana and Matthew’s forbidden relationship and learn Diana’s secrets. With an earnest tone and touch of humor, Harkness blends suspense, history, and romance while exploring deeper themes of self-identity, the importance of family, and the impact of prejudice. The novel's sequels, Shadow of Night and The Book of Life, were published in 2012 and 2014, respectively.