TV Series
Fantasy, Drama, Romance, Supernatural
Release Date: September 14, 2018 (Season 1)
Final Season: 2022
Creator: Deborah Harkness (Based on her book series)
Main Cast:

• Teresa Palmer as Diana Bishop
• Matthew Goode as Matthew Clairmont
• Alex Kingston as Sarah Bishop
• Valarie Pettiford as Emily Mather
• Malcolm Sinclair as Peter Knox

Plot Summary

A Discovery of Witches takes viewers on a mystical journey into a world where magic, science, and history collide. Based on Deborah Harkness’s All Souls trilogy, this series explores the forbidden love story between Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer), a witch and historian, and Matthew Clairmont (Matthew Goode), a vampire and geneticist. Set against the backdrop of a world where witches, vampires, and daemons live in secret, the series begins when Diana discovers a magical manuscript, Ashmole 782, in the Bodleian Library at Oxford University—a book long thought lost to history.

Diana, a reluctant witch who has denied her magical heritage, is thrust into a world of dark forces as both witches and vampires want to get their hands on the powerful manuscript. In her search for answers, she forms an uneasy alliance with the enigmatic and centuries-old Matthew, whose hidden secrets and dangerous connections complicate their growing love.

As the series unfolds, Diana and Matthew embark on a thrilling quest to unlock the mysteries of Ashmole 782, facing enemies, navigating a turbulent world of supernatural politics, and confronting Diana’s own magical powers, which are far more powerful than she could ever imagine.

What Makes A Discovery of Witches Stand Out

1. Historical Fantasy: The series combines rich historical settings with supernatural intrigue, blending real historical figures and events with the magical world of witches and vampires.
2. Romantic Chemistry: The intense, forbidden romance between Diana and Matthew is at the heart of the series, captivating audiences with their compelling and dynamic relationship.
3. Intricate World-Building: The show immerses viewers in a beautifully crafted world where magic and science intertwine, with detailed lore about witches, vampires, and daemons, as well as the complex political tensions between them.

Highlights

• Magical Visuals: The show features visually stunning depictions of magical spells, time travel, and supernatural creatures, making it a treat for fans of fantasy and visual storytelling.
• Powerful Female Lead: Diana’s journey from a scholar to a powerful witch is one of self-discovery and empowerment, making her a strong, relatable character.
• Complex Characters and Relationships: Alongside Diana and Matthew’s love story, the series delves into a wide array of characters, from the fierce witch Sarah Bishop (Alex Kingston) to the morally ambiguous vampire Philippe de Clermont, enriching the narrative.

Reception

A Discovery of Witches received positive feedback for its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and the chemistry between its leads. Fans of the All Souls book trilogy praised the show’s faithful adaptation, while newcomers to the story found it to be an engaging and captivating supernatural drama. The show’s mix of romance, historical intrigue, and magic proved to be a winning combination, making it a standout among other fantasy series.

Why You Should Watch

If you’re a fan of supernatural dramas that blend magic, history, and romance, A Discovery of Witches is the series for you. With its well-developed world, strong character arcs, and intriguing mystery, this series offers a rich, immersive experience for viewers. Whether you’re drawn to the forbidden romance between Diana and Matthew, or the dark, magical elements at play, A Discovery of Witches is a must-watch for fans of the genre.