Let’s be real Mayfair Witches Season 2 is an improvement over its uneven first season, but it’s still not quite the spellbinding series it could – and should – be. The pacing is better, the visuals are sharper – goodbye, weird yellow glow of Moira’s powers, hello subtle psychometric effects on Cip’s glasses, – and there’s a bit more of that dark, witchy atmosphere the show needs. But while this season is more intriguing this time around, the show still struggles to cast a full enchantment.

The biggest issue? Character development – or the lack thereof. Who are these Mayfair witches? What’s their history? What’s their role in the family? The show gives us glimpses, but it’s all so generic and forgettable that it’s hard to feel invested. I’ve only read one of the three books so far and these questions have better answers in the source material. So even with a stronger visual identity this season, the series misses the mark on what makes the Mayfairs so compelling. It’s not about comparing it to Anne Rice’s books – though, let’s be honest, fans of the novels might have plenty to nitpick. It’s about the show standing on its own, and right now, it’s just… fine.

The plot doesn’t help much either. Too often, the characters make bafflingly stupid decisions, seemingly just to keep the story moving. It’s frustrating to watch protagonists held back for no real reasons. As a friend aptly put it, “This series could have been an email.” And while Alexandra Daddario continues to shine as Rowan, she’s often relegated to standing around in gorgeous clothes, waiting for the plot to catch up to her. I know she can kick ass – let her do it!

That said, the behind-the-scenes bonus content is more intriguing than the show itself sometimes, which says a lot about the potential lurking beneath the surface. The costumes, sets, and acting are all solid, but they’re let down by a writing team that seems unsure of how to weave a cohesive, compelling narrative.

If Interview with the Vampire is the gold standard for AMC’s Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe, Mayfair Witches is still kind of mid. Here’s hoping Johnny Lee Hancock and Mark Lafferty can bring their A-game to the upcoming The Talamasca series, because this universe deserves better. As for Mayfair Witches, it’s enough to keep watching, but it’s not casting the spell it needs to truly captivate.

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