Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

by Susanna Clarke
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Fantasy
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  • ID: 9494
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-24
  • ISBN: 9781408803745
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2009-02-24
  • Reviews: 3

Set in an alternate 19th-century England, 'Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell' explores a world where magic is a fading art, until the reclusive Mr Norrell revives it. His cautious approach is challenged by the daring Jonathan Strange, leading to a complex relationship and dangerous magical experiments. The novel is celebrated for its intricate prose, historical depth, and exploration of the nature of magic and power. /n/nThe book has been praised for its intelligence and beauty, with comparisons to the works of Hilary Mantel. It delves into themes of rivalry, ambition, and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond human comprehension. The 20th anniversary edition includes an introduction by V E Schwab, highlighting its enduring appeal and status as a modern fantasy classic.

Reviews
Reddit - Recommended Books · 2025-12-24
intriguing 4.25

The book is unlike any other fantasy novel, featuring a Victorian drama of manners with some magic. It is a long book, but the length is justified by its richly detailed narrative.

The reviewer notes that the book is unlike any other fantasy novel they have read, combining a Victorian drama of manners with elements of magic. They appreciate the book's length, which allows for a richly detailed narrative that keeps the reader engaged. The reviewer also highlights the book's unique take on fantasy, making it stand out from other works in the genre. They note that the book's length is justified by its depth and complexity.

Quick quotes

    This book really is unlike any other fantasy novel I've read.

    It essentially is a Victorian drama of manners that just happens to feature some magic.

    The length is justified by its richly detailed narrative.

Fantasy Literature · 2025-12-24
brilliant 4.75

The book is a sophisticated and witty novel that weaves magic into a flawlessly detailed vision of historical England. It is a captivating story of an alternative England where magic once existed.

The reviewer describes the book as a sophisticated and witty novel that masterfully blends magic with historical detail. They appreciate the author's ability to create a convincing and immersive world. The reviewer also notes that the book's length is well-used, with a richly detailed narrative that keeps the reader engaged. They highlight the book's unique take on fantasy, making it stand out from other works in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Sophisticated, witty, and ingeniously convincing.

    Weaves magic into a flawlessly detailed vision of historical England.

    A captivating story of an alternative England where magic once existed.

The Guardian · 2015-12-30
engaging 4.50

The book is a richly detailed exploration of magic in an alternate 18th-century England. The narrative is both intricate and immersive, blending historical fiction with fantasy.

The reviewer highlights the book's unique setting, where magic is a relic of the past, and the intricate world-building that makes it feel real. They appreciate the blend of historical detail and fantastical elements, noting that the book's length is justified by its depth and complexity. The reviewer also praises the author's ability to create a compelling narrative that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    A richly detailed exploration of magic in an alternate 18th-century England.

    The narrative is both intricate and immersive.

    The book's length is justified by its depth and complexity.

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