68 pages • 2 hours read
Deborah HarknessShadow of Night
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Shadow of Night, Diana Bishop and Matthew de Clermont journey to late 16th-century Europe to seek a powerful manuscript, encountering historical figures such as Christopher Marlowe and Sir Walter Raleigh. As Diana navigates her evolving magical abilities and societal norms, they face threats from witch hunters and reveal Matthew's complex past. Together, they confront formidable challenges, including manipulation by Emperor Rudolf II and a dangerous conspiracy that risks their lives and their unborn children. Note: the book contains mentions of sexism, miscarriage, suicide, drug use, and rape.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness captivates readers with rich historical detail and complex characters, seamlessly blending fantasy with historical fiction. Positively noted for its vivid world-building and intricate plot, some criticized its pacing and occasional overabundance of details. Overall, it’s a rewarding sequel for fans of the series.
Who Should Read Shadow of Night?
A reader captivated by magical realism, historical settings, and intricate romances will relish Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness. Fans of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander and Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments series will find a kindred spirit in this spellbinding tale of time-traveling witches and historical intrigue.