Together we lifted our feet and stepped into the unknown.
Shortly after Diana Bishop and Matthew Clairmont timewalk to London, 1590, they discover that the past may not provide a safe haven after all. Reclaiming his former identity as poet and spy Matthew Roydon, the vampire falls back in step with a group of radicals known as the School of Night who share dangerous ideas about God, science, and man. Many of his friends are unruly daemons - the creative minds of the age who walk the fine line between genius and madness - including playwright Christopher Marlowe and mathematician Thomas Harriot. Matthew, himself, is expected to continue to spy for Queen Elizabeth, which puts him in close contact with London's cutthroat underworld.
Together, Matthew and Diana scour the bookstalls and alchemical laboratories of London where they follow the elusive trail of Ashmole 782 - and search for the witch who will teach Diana to control her powers.
The series
The All Souls series by Deborah Harkness is a captivating blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance that has enchanted readers worldwide. This bestselling saga transports readers into a world where magic, history, and forbidden love collide, creating an epic adventure that unfolds across time and space. With its richly detailed world-building, complex characters, and a compelling mix of mystery and romance, All Souls stands as a modern classic in the supernatural genre.
Read full series description
At the heart of the story is Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, who finds herself thrust into the world of magic after discovering an ancient, bewitched manuscript. This discovery sets off a chain of events that entangles her with Matthew Clairmont, a charming and enigmatic vampire scientist. Together, they navigate a world filled with witches, vampires, and daemons, all while facing personal dilemmas, dangerous conspiracies, and the complexities of their forbidden romance. As the series progresses, Diana and Matthew's relationship evolves, and they must confront the darker forces that threaten their world and their love.
Set against the backdrop of historical settings such as Oxford and 16th-century Europe, the series masterfully blends real history with a magical narrative. Harkness’s academic expertise is evident in her detailed portrayal of historical periods, while her imaginative storytelling brings to life a magical world that is both richly immersive and beautifully complex. The themes of power, identity, and the struggle between tradition and modernity resonate deeply throughout the books, while the chemistry between Diana and Matthew keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
All Souls has garnered widespread acclaim for its intricate plotlines, captivating romance, and intelligent exploration of magic and history. The series has developed a dedicated fanbase and was adapted into a successful television series, further extending its reach and influence. What sets All Souls apart from other fantasy series is its seamless integration of historical research and magical elements, making it a unique blend of the intellectual and the fantastical.
Whether you are a fan of sweeping love stories, complex world-building, or tales of magical discovery, All Souls offers an unforgettable journey that will leave you spellbound. Deborah Harkness's masterful storytelling invites readers to immerse themselves in a world where magic is real, history is alive, and love knows no bounds.
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