I decided to put these both together because its the same universe and, well, one is a guide book, the other a novel. Seemed simple enough. The All Souls trilogy is quite possibly my favorite universe ever written. For starters, there's history packed with in the lines as well as brought to life. There's magic and preternatural creatures to bring up some social justices. And there is science-science, biology that tries (and quite believably, too) to explain how "preternatural" is actually more "natural".
The guidebook I enjoyed because it touched on all the various subjects mentioned above, but it also went a little more in-depth. I listened to the musical playlists that Deborah Harkness recommends for each character and/or scene. I saved the recipes, but haven't had a chance to make any as of yet. I compared my reading list to hers. But I really enjoyed the historical references. The illustrations of rooms, and then what even the various chairs looked like. I enjoyed the fashion chapter and took great excitement in showing it to my fashion-conscious little sister. The best part is the character profiles, which (if it is even possible) makes one love them so much more. Which also means I need more All Souls novels. It was truly a well written guidebook into the All Souls world
As for Time's Convert, I was extremely happy with a novel about Marcus. It was a perfect blend of present and past history in one book. I will say some of Marcus's recollections felt a little rushed, like Deborah was trying to complete it in under so many pages. We were first introduced to Marcus in A Discovery of Witches, where Matthew and he both mention the Revolutionary War. It was invigorating to find out who Marcus was before that point. It certainly made the stories after that event make more sense. Why he created his vampire children in New Orleans, and how far his beliefs in liberty and freedom take him.
I especially enjoyed that this was a small extension of Matthew and Diane and their children. We were left with the idea that, now that Diana and the Book of Life had combined inside her, that she had better answers to parenthood. But I was glad to see a balance of struggles that all new parents go through. Though, to be fair (and a little jealous), I don't think my future children will be creating any works of spectacular and potentially dangerous magic. Just the usual dangers in our house. It also made me feel better that Diana continued to use her magic and forced Matthew to be more open about his vampirism. It shows a great deal of "humanity" in both of them for their children to see and accept.
Finally, I have to add, the TV show was amazing. It followed the first book very well, and I felt kept the integrity of the All Souls world. I have already purchased my season copy (Thanks, Amazon UK!) and I can't wait to have my husband, who is a history buff, watch it. Season 2 will be out soon, and I am dying to see Shadow of Night be performed. For both books 5 out of 5 stars each.
As for Time's Convert, I was extremely happy with a novel about Marcus. It was a perfect blend of present and past history in one book. I will say some of Marcus's recollections felt a little rushed, like Deborah was trying to complete it in under so many pages. We were first introduced to Marcus in A Discovery of Witches, where Matthew and he both mention the Revolutionary War. It was invigorating to find out who Marcus was before that point. It certainly made the stories after that event make more sense. Why he created his vampire children in New Orleans, and how far his beliefs in liberty and freedom take him.I especially enjoyed that this was a small extension of Matthew and Diane and their children. We were left with the idea that, now that Diana and the Book of Life had combined inside her, that she had better answers to parenthood. But I was glad to see a balance of struggles that all new parents go through. Though, to be fair (and a little jealous), I don't think my future children will be creating any works of spectacular and potentially dangerous magic. Just the usual dangers in our house. It also made me feel better that Diana continued to use her magic and forced Matthew to be more open about his vampirism. It shows a great deal of "humanity" in both of them for their children to see and accept.
Finally, I have to add, the TV show was amazing. It followed the first book very well, and I felt kept the integrity of the All Souls world. I have already purchased my season copy (Thanks, Amazon UK!) and I can't wait to have my husband, who is a history buff, watch it. Season 2 will be out soon, and I am dying to see Shadow of Night be performed. For both books 5 out of 5 stars each.
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