A Discovery of Witches: A Bewitching Disappointment
Isn’t it funny how a single moment in time can change your reading journey? My encounter with A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness was just that—a chance sighting in a soon-to-be-closed Borders store that piqued my curiosity. The premise sounded intriguing, and the first few pages flowed smoothly, sparking a glimmer of hope. But despite the hefty discount, I paused and ultimately decided to check the book out from the library. And, oh, how glad I am that I did!
The novel introduces us to Diana Bishop, a history scholar, and reluctant witch who inadvertently summons a magical manuscript that sends both the supernatural community and her life into a tailspin. She’s a captivating character at first: an independent spirit who practices yoga, enjoys tea, and isn’t afraid of her academic pursuits. But as I journeyed further with Diana, I found myself grappling with the glaring contradiction of her character. While she starts as a strong female protagonist, her narrative arc devolves into a rather typical “damsel in distress” trope.
Enter Matthew Clairmont, the brooding vampire who becomes her relentless stalker. While I initially thought perhaps Harkness would explore a more mature take on their relationship—offering an intelligent alternative to Twilight—I was mistaken. Instead of empowering Diana, their relationship quickly transforms into a hazardous tango of reliance and submission. Matthew’s domineering behavior isn’t challenged but often condoned, diluting the feminist potential of Diana’s character. I can’t help but feel we’re left with a narrative that promotes toxic behaviors under the guise of romance.
Harkness’s writing is competent, yet it often feels bogged down by excessive details about food, yoga, and Diana’s daily routines. I craved more action and depth, but instead, I encountered page after page of minutiae that detracted from the narrative’s momentum. Diana’s entire arc is punctuated by her dependence on Matthew, particularly when he rescues her from various predicaments. This sense of helplessness echoes dangerously throughout the novel.
There are moments when the story hints at its potential—like the vividly described aunts’ magical house, which felt like its own character—but they are few and far between. Harkness’s world-building is rich, yet the pacing struggles under the weight of drawn-out scenes. Quotes like, “The past seemed gray and cold without Matthew,” left me rolling my eyes, as they tendered a disturbing view of dependency masquerading as love.
In conclusion, A Discovery of Witches might find an audience among readers seeking a paranormal romance that indulges in atmospheric settings and supernatural elements. However, for those looking for a strong heroine who charts her own destiny, this novel may fall short, echoing problematic narratives that dim the light of female independence. While my enthusiasm waned as I navigated the pages, Harkness’s promise as an author is clear—perhaps one day, we’ll see that potential fully realized.
As for me, this reading experience was a gentle reminder to trust my instincts. I’ll be keeping my eye on the book display and my heart open for stories that truly celebrate empowerment and authenticity.
Discover more about A Discovery of Witches (All Souls, #1) on GoodReads >>