All Souls

Deborah Harkness
Started in 2011
3 Books

About the Series

The 'All Souls' trilogy is a captivating blend of romance, fantasy, and historical fiction, weaving together the lives of witches, vampires, and daemons in a world rich with magic and lore. At the heart of the series is the story of Diana Bishop, a historian and witch who reluctantly embraces her magical heritage after discovering a bewitched manuscript. The narrative explores themes of love, power, and the intricacies of magical ancestry, interlacing Diana's journey with that of Matthew Clairmont, a vampire geneticist, as they navigate a world filled with ancient secrets and supernatural politics.

Series Details

  • Author:Deborah Harkness
  • Started:2011
  • Books:3
  • Status:Complete

Genres

FantasyRomanceHistorical FictionParanormal

Themes

Love and SacrificeIdentity and HeritageMagic and KnowledgeFamily and RelationshipsThe Nature of Power

Books in Order

1

A Discovery of Witches

2011

In 'A Discovery of Witches', Diana Bishop, a historian and witch, discovers a long-lost alchemical manuscript in the Bodleian Library. This discovery sends her into a world of magic and danger, drawing the attention of creatures of the night, including the enigmatic vampire Matthew Clairmont. As they uncover the secrets of the manuscript, Diana must confront her powers and the legacy of her witch ancestry.

Series StartCore Series
2

Shadow of Night

2012

In 'Shadow of Night', Diana and Matthew travel back to 1590 in search of the manuscript's origins. They navigate the complexities of Elizabethan London while trying to avoid the dangers of being discovered as a witch and a vampire. This installment deepens the exploration of historical figures and the intricacies of time travel, further developing Diana and Matthew's relationship.

Core Series
3

The Book of Life

2014

The concluding volume, 'The Book of Life', sees Diana and Matthew return to the present, where they must confront threats to their family and the future of the magical world. As secrets are revealed and alliances tested, Diana embraces her identity as a powerful witch, and her journey culminates in a battle that will determine the fate of all creatures in their world.

Series FinaleCore Series

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'All Souls' a standalone series or part of a larger universe?

'All Souls' is a trilogy that tells a complete story but is set in a larger universe of magic, with references to historical figures and events. The author, Deborah Harkness, has hinted at potential for future stories within this world.

What inspired Deborah Harkness to write the 'All Souls' series?

Harkness drew inspiration from her background in history and her love for literature, combining her interests in witchcraft, vampires, and historical narratives to create a rich tapestry that explores the intersections of magic and reality.

Are there any spin-off works or adaptations related to the 'All Souls' series?

Yes, the 'All Souls' series has been adapted into a television series titled 'A Discovery of Witches', which closely follows the plot of the first book. Additionally, Harkness has published companion pieces that expand on the lore and characters of the trilogy.

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