Guys! This book is GOLD. It's been awhile since I read a book solely for its romantic plot, but oh my god. These two characters are so well flushed out that their romance is beautiful and realistic (despite the fact that they're both creatures, which to my knowledge, do not exist). I immediately fell in love with the setting in which this novel takes place. Harkness ushers you into a new and chaotic world which is semi-present day, but in this world there are creatures: witches, vampires and daemons, all of which cohabitate with humans (well attempt to cohabitate with humans, and with each other). As the reader, you follow a witch, Diana Bishop, as she begins to discover the extent of her powers, which she has actively avoided using for her whole life. You're then introduced to the vengeful and protective vampire, Mathew Clairmont, who as it happens is a Professor of biochemistry at Oxford University. Harkness creates a powerful bond between these two creatures/characters, and as the reader, you can't help but root for their unexpected romance. Without giving too much away, obstacles are put in Diana and Mathew's way, as they begin to navigate their feelings for one another. Harkness manages to keep a strong realistic portrayal while also incorporating fantasy aspects and scientific research. Another reason why I absolutely could not put this book down, is the familial relationships. Harkness has the distinct ability to craft extremely meaningful character relationships, between Diana and Mathew, but also between their two families. All in all, A Discovery of Witches pleasantly surprised me. I didn't expect to like it quite as much as I did. I was never a huge fan of the Twilight books, so I expected something similar but was shocked to find that there really were not too many distinct similarities between the two series' (except for the existence of vampires). This book, and I'm assuming the follow books in the trilogy, focus far more on the historic lore surrounding the concept of witches and vampires. I was enthralled by the detail in which Harkness brings to the table to sculpt this enigmatic world where not even creatures are safe from human influence, That's all for now. As always, much love. xoxo -B
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When I think of the word perfect, all that I can think of is this novel. The Lost Queen is a sweeping tale which takes place over the period of twenty or so years. Languoreth, the main protagonist, is exquisite. She is strong, defiant, and while she seems perfectly fit for her time, her spirit roams through the pages of this novel, which takes place in 500 AD, and straight into the hearts of readers, in our time. The Lost Queen has forever changed how I see historical fiction. And unfortunately I don't know how I'll ever be able to compare another to this masterpiece. Everything will be wilted in comparison to this blooming, lyrical and heart-wrenching portrayal of Languoreth Hael. In case you needed more reasons to read, there's also a romance between two characters which takes the idealization of enduring love to a whole other level. There's a stronger bond of love as well, that between a mother and her children. And somehow Pike manages to grow Languoreth right before the reader's eyes, and suddenly you see her in a whole new light. It's as magical as the magic in the novel (which by the way is subtle and interesting). If you want your entire world rocked, do yourself a favor and pick this one up. I am anxiously awaiting the sequels. Excuse me while I re-read. That's all for now. As always, much love. xoxo -B |
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