A Discovery of Witches Season One Review – Your Next Supernatural Binge Watch

Secret underworld of extraordinary beings, hiding in plain sight.

Adapted from Deborah Harkness’ best-selling trilogy of novels, A Discovery of Witches is a bold and romantic thriller that uncovers a secret underworld of extraordinary beings hiding in plain sight for fear of persecution by humans – they are vampires, witches and daemons.

Brilliant historian Diana Bishop is a witch denying her own heritage. But when she unexpectedly calls up an ancient, bewitched manuscript from Oxford’s Bodleian library, one that was thought by the creatures to be lost and could answer the mysteries of their existence, she finds herself thrown into the heart of a dangerous mystery – and into the path of the enigmatic geneticist and vampire Matthew Clairmont.

Matthew is driven to solve the looming threat of the creatures’ decline and extinction, but their unlikely alliance to find the book before it falls into the wrong hands and their deepening relationship – threatens to violate age-old taboos and shake the fragile peace that exists between the species.

So, what’d we think?

Based on the best-selling novel by Deborah Harkness, season one of A Discovery of Witches takes the best parts of book one of said trilogy to create the basis for what is sure to be your next binge watch. Already renewed for a second and third season, it’s time to jump on the supernatural bandwagon!

While not original or as ground-breaking as True Blood was, there is no denying that this supernatural world completely draws you in with its dark history, magical realism and complex characters.

A Discovery of Witches stars Matthew Goode and Teresa Palmer in the lead roles, both of whom are delightfully charming and draw you in from the very first episode. Palmer is one of my eco-goddesses and in my opinion, a completely underrated actress so it is fab to see her shine as Diana.

Speaking of, one of the key hooks of the show is the relationship that plays out between Matthew, a handsome vampire and Diana, a young witch. Their chemistry is undeniable and both leads have an easy nature that makes them likeable from the outset. Unlike certain other TV shows that build a foundation on angst, A Discovery of Witches uses trust and a shared journey as the core to their swoon-worthy romance.

I’d be remiss not to mention the exceptional worldbuilding. Vivid in its setting and supported by a sold narrative style, outside of the romance this supernatural world thrives all on its own. With a government known as ‘The Congregation’ lead by a group of demons, witches and vampires, there is enough espionage and betrayal to keep the story moving forward while everyone hunts down the elusive manuscript.

Consistently solid in its effort to bring you the perfect balance of action, drama and romance, the first season is not to be missed. There are eight explosive episodes for you to devour and you can check out some episode teasers below.

Episode one:

Things get creepy for historian and closet witch, Diana Bishop, when she calls up a magical manuscript. Her discovery is about to throw her back into the world of magic and into the path of Matthew Clairmont, a centuries old vampire.

Episode two:

As Matthew fights to control his cravings, he leaves Diana to face her enemies alone. And those include powerful witch Peter Knox.

Episode three:

There is another dark turn in store for Diana when an alarming package is slipped under her door. Meanwhile, her relationship with Matthew moves forward, but something is about to happen that will cast them both further into danger.

Episode four:

Diana gets a chilly welcome when she seeks safety at the Clairmont family home. Back in Oxford, trouble is brewing. Juliette shows up and throws Marcus’ life into danger, while Satu pays the price for her curiosity.

Episode five:

Tensions between the creatures grow as the witches find out the vampires are studying DNA. Matthew crosses a line when he returns to Oxford. Diana discovers his dark past, before something unexpected tears them apart.

Episode six:

Matthew and Baldwin race to save Diana from Satu’s dangerous dark magic. In Oxford, Sophie shocks Agatha with a confession.

Episode seven:

Diana’s aunts’ home gives up all sorts of secrets when Diana and Matthew pay a visit. Danger looms as Juliette breaks free from Gerbert.

Episode eight:

With danger at every turn, Diana and Matthew are forced to run. But will they escape in time?

But, should you see it?

YES! If supernatural shows are your jam, then this is most definitely the show for you. With dark magic, great chemistry between the leads and a consistently mysterious and intriguing storyline, A Discovery of Witches is the underrated TV show you need to binge watch with your girlfriends.

See more:

• Grab The Popcorn…DVDs We’ve Been Watching In February
• Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald review – an epic addition to the Harry Potter universe
• Crazy Rich Asians review – charming, funny & romantic AF
• The Spy Who Dumped Me Review – a MUST watch with your hot mess BFF

Written by Monique Renee

Usually barefoot and deep in wanderlust mode, Mon loves binging Netflix, cuddling babies and stalking through Instagram looking for boho decor inspo and hotties with man buns. You’ll usually find her on holiday, planning a holiday or thinking about holidays.

Favourite Instagram to follow: @hotdudesreading