Today’s review is about a book that could easily become a modern classic, A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. This has easily become one of my favorite books and I have re-read it at least 3 times. I plan to re-read it yet again right before the next installment in the series comes out in July.
A Discovery of Witches starts with just a small unintentional slip that will propel the story. Diana Bishop is a witch, but most importantly in her mind she is a scholar. She has always resisted using her powers and instead has put herself full force into her scholarly work of Scientific History. The story begins in Oxford’s library where Diana unintentionally calls an elusive book, Ashmole 782. This one act sends the whole story into motion. By summoning this book, even unknowingly, Diana brings down upon her trouble from witches, vampires and daemons. Diana soon meets a vampire, Matthew Clairmont, and they begin a journey of discovery for both her and him.
Matthew is a very notable scientist himself and when he hears about the re-appearance of Ashmole 782 he realizes he must find who has summoned it. He becomes intrigued by Diana. As Matthew and Diana become closer Diana’s control on her powers becomes less controlled and more erratic. Matthew and Diana discover that their connection is less and less about the book and more about their destiny. Their story intertwines in ways that neither of them could have thought possible. Their enemies begin to come out of nowhere and everywhere. Matthew and Diana realize that they must work together and with their friends and family to survive the trials that the discovery of Ashmole 782 has caused.
Overall, this is a phenomenal book. It incorporates historical facts with paranormal. Deborah Harkness really did her research when it came to the history and the science. She not only brings in a realism with the characters of Matthew and Diana but she is also accurate in what she is talking about. The love story of Matthew and Diana’s is one of my favorite parts. I enjoy the star-crossed lovers aspect of their love story. Diana being a witch and Matthew a vampire is illegal in their society. Ms. Harkness weaves a story that will be enduring and makes you want to re-read it again and again just to find out what you missed from before. I can’t wait for the next installment, Shadow of Night coming out in July. If it is written half as well as A Discovery of Witches then Ms. Harkness will have another hit on her hands.
For more information or to purchase A Discovery of Witches you can go to Barnes and Noble, Amazon or any other book retailer.