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libraryforspooky's review against another edition
4.0
"Shadow of Night" by Deborah Harkness is a mesmerizing continuation of the All Souls Trilogy that seamlessly weaves together history, romance, and the supernatural. Building upon the foundation laid in the first book, "A Discovery of Witches," Harkness takes readers on an enchanting journey through time and across continents, immersing them in a world where witches, vampires, and daemons walk among us.
At the heart of the novel is the compelling love story between Diana Bishop, a powerful witch, and Matthew Clairmont, a centuries-old vampire. As the couple travels back in time to Elizabethan England, they must navigate the treacherous political landscape of Queen Elizabeth's court while unraveling the mysteries of their own pasts. Along the way, they encounter historical figures such as Christopher Marlowe and Queen Elizabeth herself, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its richly detailed setting. From the bustling streets of London to the opulent halls of Oxford, Harkness brings the Elizabethan era to life with vivid descriptions and immersive world-building. Readers will find themselves transported to a time of intrigue, danger, and forbidden love, where every shadow holds secrets and every corner conceals danger.
Moreover, "Shadow of Night" is populated with a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and desires. From the enigmatic vampire Gallowglass to the cunning witch Goody Alsop, Harkness's characters are as complex as they are captivating, adding depth and dimension to the story. The dynamic between Diana and Matthew remains at the heart of the novel, as they grapple with the challenges of their forbidden relationship and the consequences of their actions.
Another highlight of the novel is its exploration of magic and the supernatural. Harkness seamlessly blends elements of fantasy with historical detail, creating a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. From spells and potions to ancient rituals and arcane knowledge, "Shadow of Night" offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world where magic is real and anything is possible.
While "Shadow of Night" is undeniably a compelling read, some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly in the first half of the novel. Additionally, the intricate plot and numerous subplots may require patience and attention to detail, as Harkness weaves together multiple storylines and character arcs.
In conclusion, "Shadow of Night" is a captivating sequel that will satisfy fans of historical fiction, romance, and the supernatural. With its richly imagined world, engaging characters, and spellbinding plot, Deborah Harkness's novel is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the All Souls Trilogy.
At the heart of the novel is the compelling love story between Diana Bishop, a powerful witch, and Matthew Clairmont, a centuries-old vampire. As the couple travels back in time to Elizabethan England, they must navigate the treacherous political landscape of Queen Elizabeth's court while unraveling the mysteries of their own pasts. Along the way, they encounter historical figures such as Christopher Marlowe and Queen Elizabeth herself, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its richly detailed setting. From the bustling streets of London to the opulent halls of Oxford, Harkness brings the Elizabethan era to life with vivid descriptions and immersive world-building. Readers will find themselves transported to a time of intrigue, danger, and forbidden love, where every shadow holds secrets and every corner conceals danger.
Moreover, "Shadow of Night" is populated with a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and desires. From the enigmatic vampire Gallowglass to the cunning witch Goody Alsop, Harkness's characters are as complex as they are captivating, adding depth and dimension to the story. The dynamic between Diana and Matthew remains at the heart of the novel, as they grapple with the challenges of their forbidden relationship and the consequences of their actions.
Another highlight of the novel is its exploration of magic and the supernatural. Harkness seamlessly blends elements of fantasy with historical detail, creating a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. From spells and potions to ancient rituals and arcane knowledge, "Shadow of Night" offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world where magic is real and anything is possible.
While "Shadow of Night" is undeniably a compelling read, some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly in the first half of the novel. Additionally, the intricate plot and numerous subplots may require patience and attention to detail, as Harkness weaves together multiple storylines and character arcs.
In conclusion, "Shadow of Night" is a captivating sequel that will satisfy fans of historical fiction, romance, and the supernatural. With its richly imagined world, engaging characters, and spellbinding plot, Deborah Harkness's novel is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the All Souls Trilogy.
kymreads33's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
comfyread's review against another edition
I did not enjoy reading about the pregnancy :I that's a personal topic I have, so I dnf-ed it :)
ferrot_lectorapromedio's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
informative
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
winemakerssister's review against another edition
4.0
Re-reading with friends.
I've downgraded my rating to 4 stars after reading it for a 2nd time. The first 25% of the novel really dragged - we spent several hours meeting Matthew's friends and another hour or two introducing Diana to Matthew's family. Lots of sitting around and talking.
The novel picked up after they moved to London, but there were still parts that dragged a bit. I still consider it a terrific trilogy, but this middle book feels a bit weaker than the first one.
I've downgraded my rating to 4 stars after reading it for a 2nd time. The first 25% of the novel really dragged - we spent several hours meeting Matthew's friends and another hour or two introducing Diana to Matthew's family. Lots of sitting around and talking.
The novel picked up after they moved to London, but there were still parts that dragged a bit. I still consider it a terrific trilogy, but this middle book feels a bit weaker than the first one.
sherubi27's review against another edition
3.0
This series is chefs kiss
The main plot dragged a little in this, it definitely could have been shorter BUT the history element these books have is SO COOL. Just “hey lets go see shakesphere” EXCUSE ME WHAT??? Imagine being able to say that, it just blows my mind
The main plot dragged a little in this, it definitely could have been shorter BUT the history element these books have is SO COOL. Just “hey lets go see shakesphere” EXCUSE ME WHAT??? Imagine being able to say that, it just blows my mind
bleep_blorp's review against another edition
4.5
The past was evoked so vividly & historical details really made this as much as the plot
eileenfun331's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5