“Shadow of Night,” the second volume of the All Souls trilogy by Deborah Harkness, dives deeper into the lives and times of Diana Bishop, a reluctant witch, and Matthew Clairmont, a scholarly vampire. Serving as a direct sequel to “A Discovery of Witches,” this ambitious narrative takes a bold leap backward into the heart of Elizabethan London, attempting to weave historical intricacies with the supernatural elements that captivated readers in the first book.

Harkness, a historian herself, proves her mettle with richly detailed descriptions of the period, from the cobbled streets of London to the grandeur of the royal court. The setting is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, influencing the story’s development and providing a fitting playground for the drama that unfolds. The real charm of “Shadow of Night” lies in these historical forays—whether it’s a walk through Bedlam, the notorious psychiatric hospital, or an encounter with historical figures like playwright Christopher Marlowe and scientist Walter Raleigh, who are interestingly portrayed as Matthew’s old friends, members of the enigmatic School of Night.

The narrative shines when it delves into the complexity of time travel, presenting it as a fraught endeavor with tangible consequences. Diana and Matthew’s jaunt to the past is not just a quest for answers about Ashmole 782—a mysterious manuscript that ties deeply into Diana’s heritage—but also a moment for self-discovery, particularly for Diana. Her journey into the arcane arts under the tutelage of a witch from the past further layers the story, marking her growth from a hesitant beginner to a more confident practitioner.

However, the novel is not without its pitfalls. The pacing can sometimes feel uneven, with certain segments of the narrative, especially those steeped in day-to-day Elizabethan details, dragging on without advancing the plot significantly. Readers eager for more action-driven sequences may find these portions to slow the momentum built up by the thrilling conclusion of the first book.

Additionally, while Harkness’s portrayal of historical figures is imaginative and bold, it occasionally borders on the anachronistic, potentially jarring readers familiar with the period. The interplay between real history and the novel’s fantastical elements is mostly well-handled but can sometimes feel forced, underscoring the challenge of balancing accurate historical depiction with the necessities of fantasy storytelling.

Character development in “Shadow of Night” is particularly noteworthy when it comes to the protagonist duo, whose relationship deepens under the strain of their circumstances. The novel does well to explore Matthew’s past, enriching his character and providing key insights into his actions and motivations. The evolution of Diana and Matthew’s relationship—tested by time, secrets, and the looming threat posed by otherworldly and human adversaries—provides a compelling central thread that binds the various elements of the story.

In conclusion, “Shadow of Night” is a commendable sequel that expands the universe of “A Discovery of Witches” with historical depth and imaginative flair. While it may suffer slightly from pacing issues and the ambitious meshing of fact with fiction, it remains a strong contender in the realm of historical fantasy, providing a lush, if occasionally overwrought, tapestry of a world where history and magic intertwine. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find much to enjoy in Diana and Matthew’s journey through time, even as they look forward to the resolutions awaiting in the trilogy’s final installment.