Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
Susanna Clarke
TOR
1006 pages
Read in 2008

At the dawn of the nineteenth century, two very different magicians emerge to change England's history. In the year 1806, with the Napoleonic Wars raging on land and sea, most people believe magic to be long dead in England - until the reclusive Mr Norrelle reveals his powers, and becomes a celebrity overnight.
Soon, another practicing magician comes forth : the young, handsome, and daring Jonathan Strange. He becomes Norrell's student, and they join forces in the war against France. But Strange is increasingly drawn to the wildest, most perilous forms of magic, straining his partnership with Norrell, and putting at risk everything he holds dear.