It’s been four years since the popular series A Discovery of Witches ended – we think it’s the best romantasy show of the 21st century so far. Romantasy is incredibly popular in books, but hasn’t really taken off on TV… until now. Hopefully, we’ll see more adaptations soon! Big books like A Court of Thorns and Roses and Fourth Wing are currently being turned into TV shows, though fans are waiting (not very patiently!) for updates.
If you’re not super familiar with romantasy, it’s a fun blend of fantasy and romance – think magical worlds with a big focus on the love story. Usually, it follows a woman, often someone relatable, who gets thrown into this incredible, mystical adventure, and let’s just say things get pretty heated! And honestly, as a huge fan, I still think A Discovery of Witches is the gold standard – nothing really tops it for me.
A Discovery of Witches Is An Underrated Fantasy Gem
Inspired by Deborah Harkness’ popular All Souls Trilogy (and taking its name from the first book), A Discovery of Witches features Matthew Goode and Teresa Palmer as the vampire Matthew Clairmont and the witch Diana Bishop. Diana, who doesn’t want to use her magical abilities, is drawn back into the magical world when she discovers a centuries-old manuscript. It isn’t long before she and Matthew develop a connection, and they become entangled in a perilous prophecy and a sinister plot.
A Discovery of Witches is remarkably consistent – it establishes high expectations and then delivers on them every time. The series beautifully expands its world of vampires, witches, and daemons with each season. It quickly finds creative ways to reveal the past, as Diana uses her powers to send herself and Matthew back to 1590. There, they must unravel historical mysteries to resolve their current problems.
The acting is phenomenal, both from the leads and the supporting cast, and it’s no surprise the show consistently receives high ratings – every season has at least an 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The writing is sharp and well-done, though Season 3 does feel a bit faster-paced than the first two. Importantly, the story wraps up all loose ends satisfyingly. The show creates a captivating and believable world, with a magic system that makes sense, and a central love story that drives everything forward.
A Discovery of Witches Is Unique Among Fantasy Series
Unlike many fantasy series, A Discovery of Witches – made by the teams behind Doctor Who – tells a complete, satisfying story over its three seasons. Each season is based on one of the novels it adapts, so you won’t find frustrating cliffhangers or unexpected changes in direction. The author had already finished the book series before the show began, avoiding the issues seen in shows like Game of Thrones. The first season was so successful that Sky immediately renewed the show for a further two seasons.
Romantasy novels have evolved since the days of Twilight, and today’s heroines are strong and capable. Diana, the protagonist, is far from passive – she’s a powerful woman who quickly becomes Matthew’s equal, protecting him just as much as he protects her. Unlike the brooding vampires of the past, Matthew isn’t defined by teenage angst. He’s an immortal being making thoughtful choices, and Diana is a capable historian who confidently adapts to her new, extraordinary world.
Historian Diana Bishop offers a fascinating perspective on the time travel elements of A Discovery of Witches. The studio behind the show, founded by former Doctor Who creators, clearly knows its way around time travel stories, and they handle the complicated parts – and the resulting disorientation – very well. The series truly lives up to its name, focusing on themes of discovery as the characters navigate love, fate, and other big questions. It’s currently streaming on Netflix and comes with a very high recommendation.
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2026-02-18 20:40