Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

by Susanna Clarke
read June 2012
reviewed Jun 1 2012
*****

A fantasy novel of English Magic set during the Napoleonic wars, written in a nineteenth century style. Lovely prose, a bit melancholy, character driven, about the claustrophobia and loneliness of scholars, ambition, mentorship, the pain of living under enchantment. Reminds me of Neil Gaiman in themes and tone.

fantasy magic alternate history napoleonic wars