Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell

An alternative history set in 19th-century England around the time of the Napoleonic Wars, it is based on the premise that magic once existed in England and has returned with two men: Gilbert Norrell and Jonathan Strange. Centering on the relationship between these two men, the novel investigates the nature of "Englishness" and the boundary between reason and madness. It has been described as a fantasy novel, an alternative history, and a historical novel. The novel was well-received by critics and reached number three on the New York Times Bestseller List . It was longlisted for the 2004 Man Booker Prize and won the 2005 Hugo Award for Best Novel.