Book Review: A Discovery of Witches

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness, the first book in the All Souls trilogy, is a suspenseful tale of feral emotions, forbidden love, secrets, and supernatural creatures.

A young scholar at Oxford University and a decedent of the infamous Bishop family, Diana, studies alchemy in the hollows of the Bodleian Library until the day she request Ashmole 782 and falls into the arms of a striking vampire by the name of Matthew de Clairmont.

The novel brings the reader through a wild ride of ups and downs, of love and loss, and of secrecy and bravery. From the moment Diana feels the power of Ashmole 782 and Matthew’s icy touch, her life is never the same. This begins the tale of a witch discovering her neglected powers. While in the process of protecting themselves, the two creatures begin falling into forbidden love, and a promise made among creatures centuries ago is broken, drawing more insidious and incredulous eyes towards the foreseen couple.

Discovery of Witches is the most enticing story I have ever read in my lifetime. I could not take my eyes off of this book as if it were bewitched itself. I would recommend this book to anyone willing to be engulfed in a world of witchcraft, creatures, and  intricate webs of secrets.

Vincent is a junior in the Gifted program at Hahnville High. He enjoys many extra-curricular activities such as swimming, running, and throwing pottery.

Editor’s note: Book reviews are published regularly in agreement with Hahnville High School gifted English teacher Deborah Unger in conjunction with the Brown Foundation Service Learning Program.

 

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