How Does The All Souls Trilogy By Deborah Harkness Compare To The TV Series?

I’ve been a huge fan of the 'All Souls Trilogy' since I first picked up 'A Discovery of Witches,' and while the TV adaptation does a decent job, it’s hard to capture the depth of the books. The novels are rich with historical detail, scientific nuance, and intricate world-building that the show often glosses over. For instance, the alchemy and genetic research that Matthew and Diana delve into feel more fleshed out in the books, giving the story a unique intellectual edge. The TV series, while visually stunning, sometimes sacrifices these layers for faster pacing and dramatic effect.

One of the biggest differences is the portrayal of the characters. In the books, Diana’s growth from a reluctant witch to a powerful weaver of magic feels gradual and earned. The show, however, speeds up her transformation, which can make her journey feel less organic. Matthew, too, is more brooding and intense in the books, with his internal struggles and moral complexities given more room to breathe. The TV version leans heavily on his romantic appeal, which, while enjoyable, doesn’t quite capture the same depth.

The settings in the books are also more immersive. Harkness’s descriptions of Oxford, the Bishop house, and the time-travel sequences are vivid and transportive. The show does a good job with the visuals, but it’s hard to match the imagination-fueled experience of reading. That said, the TV series excels in bringing the romance and tension between Diana and Matthew to life, making their chemistry palpable in a way that’s harder to convey on the page. Overall, while the show is a solid adaptation, the books remain the richer, more satisfying experience.

The 'All Souls Trilogy' books and the TV series are like two sides of the same coin—similar in essence but different in execution. The books dive deep into the lore, with Deborah Harkness weaving a complex tapestry of history, magic, and science. The show, on the other hand, focuses more on the visual and emotional aspects, which makes it more accessible but less detailed. I love how the books let you linger in the world, while the show keeps things moving at a brisk pace. Both have their strengths, but if you’re looking for depth, the books are the way to go.