Review: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

Author: Deborah Harkness
Published: February 8th, 2011
Rating: ★★★★ (4 stars)
Genres: Fiction // Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
Date Started: July 27th, 2024
Date Finished: August 14th, 2024
Quick Thoughts: an atmospheric blend of history, magic, and romance, centering on a witch and vampire’s forbidden love. Its detailed world-building and slow-burn plot make it a captivating read for fans of supernatural stories.

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about this book:

A Discovery of Witches follows Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, who accidentally uncovers a mysterious, enchanted manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library. This discovery draws her into the hidden world of supernatural beings—witches, vampires, and demons—that have been living among humans for centuries. As Diana navigates this new reality, she encounters Matthew Clairmont, a centuries-old vampire, and together they must unravel the mysteries surrounding the manuscript while facing mounting danger. The novel blends magic, history, and romance in a world where ancient rivalries and secrets come to light.

my thoughts

I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline in A Discovery of Witches, particularly how it masterfully blends historical detail with a gripping narrative. The author does a fantastic job of incorporating real-world history, which adds depth to the plot and gives the story a unique, intellectual edge. The romance between Diana and Matthew was especially well done, creating the perfect balance of tension and chemistry without overshadowing the other elements of the story. Their relationship felt natural and developed at just the right pace. I am excited to see how that relationship continues in the next book. Overall, this book left me feeling happy and satisfied. It was a captivating and immersive read from start to finish, offering a mix of magic, history, and romance that made it hard to put down. I’d absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a well-crafted story with strong characters and an engaging plot. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, fantasy, or romance, this book has something for everyone.

character development

The character development is a central part of the story, particularly for the protagonist; Diana Bishop, is a historian who has long rejected her magical heritage, preferring to live a life rooted in academia. However, as she uncovers a mysterious manuscript and becomes more involved in the supernatural world, she is forced to confront and embrace her powers. Diana evolves from a reluctant witch into a more self-assured and capable individual, gradually accepting the responsibility that comes with her abilities. Matthew Clairmont, the enigmatic vampire, also experiences growth. Initially, he is portrayed as guarded and protective, with centuries of secrets weighing him down. As he grows closer to Diana, his character softens, and his vulnerability begins to show. Both characters learn to trust each other and themselves more, creating a dynamic that drives their relationship and personal transformations. Their growth feels natural, as they face external challenges and internal conflicts that shape their choices and actions.

pacing & plot progression

Pacing was the one element that held this book back from achieving a perfect 5-star rating for me. The first half felt somewhat sluggish, serving primarily as an introduction to the characters and the richly detailed world they inhabit. While I appreciated the depth and context provided during this slow build, it made the initial reading experience feel a bit drawn out. However, once the story picks up after the halfway mark, everything changes dramatically. The stakes rise significantly, propelling the narrative forward and infusing it with a sense of urgency. The romance between Diana and Matthew intensifies beautifully, adding an emotional layer that keeps you on the edge of your seat. As the plot thickens, the mysteries surrounding Diana’s powers and the enigmatic Ashmole 782 manuscript come to life, making the latter half of the book a thrilling ride. This shift in pacing ultimately transforms the reading experience, allowing the story to unfold in a captivating way that keeps you hooked until the very last page.

themes: magic vs. science, history, and forbidden romance

What truly drew me in was the exploration of magic versus science through Diana Bishop, the main character. As an academic and alchemist, she has spent her life rejecting witchcraft, creating a compelling tension between her rational side and her magical heritage. Harkness skillfully intertwines alchemy with the coexistence of magic and science, making Diana’s journey to embrace her powers alongside her studies satisfying and relatable. Harkness also grounds her fantasy in real history, incorporating actual figures, events, and manuscripts that lend a sense of realism to the tale. Instead of merely escaping into a fantastical realm, the story immerses me in the past, making history engaging without feeling heavy-handed. Regarding the romance, Diana and Matthew Clairmont embody the classic “forbidden love” dynamic. Their relationship is fraught with danger, as witches and vampires are not meant to mix, heightening the stakes. Diana’s struggle to accept her powers parallels her hesitance toward Matthew, adding depth to their connection. This isn’t just a swoon-worthy love story; it’s about breaking rules and challenging beliefs.

final thoughts

In short, A Discovery of Witches is a captivating read that transports you into a beautifully crafted world. The rich world-building, nuanced characters, and slow-burn romance make it a delightful experience. Although I rated it 4/5 mainly due to pacing issues in the first half, it’s still an excellent read that’s absolutely worth your time.

If you enjoy historical fantasy infused with danger, romance, and a blend of magic and science, you’ll want to pick this one up. If you’ve read A Discovery of Witches, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment to share your favorite moments.

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