bluedwards 's review for:

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

4.5

adventurous challenging dark funny inspiring lighthearted mysterious tense slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

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Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell this evening, two magicians bring back English magic in a Napoleonic-era romp. Norrell, an introverted scholar, hoards magical knowledge, while Strange, his outgoing pupil, dives headfirst into spell-slinging chaos. They clash over fairy bargains and forbidden magic, accidentally unleashing a sinister Gentleman with thistledown hair who kidnaps souls. Footnotes pile up like Norrell’s library, detailing magical history with dry wit. The plot meanders like a fairy road, slow but enchanting, with battles, betrayals, and a dark prophecy. It’s a hefty (1006 pages), hilarious saga for those who enjoy wizardly feuds and regency flair. Magical mayhem!