A review by peppermintlegs
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

adventurous mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

As perhaps the most annoying snob about Regency-era historical fiction, this book delighted me. I love the way Clarke utilized the socioeconomic structure of the time period, as well as incorporating the Napoleonic War. I loved both Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, two flawed men who are soooooo obsessed with each other it makes them look stupid. I also enjoyed how important the women were to the story—these men would be absolute wrecks without the women in their lives making them the successes they are and keeping them in check enough to achieve that. The magic was wonderful, the unfolding of historic fantasy compelling, and the incorporation of Real Life Actual Lord Byron so ballsy it had no choice but to be successful. Loved this book, ended up buying it, hope to reread in the future.