Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell Bloomsbury Modern Classics | Sussana Clarke

Centuries have passed since practical magicians faded into England's past. Only one remains: the reclusive Mr Norrell, whose magical powers - of conjuring, misdirection and resurrection - send a thrill through the country.

But cautious, fussy Norrell is challenged by the emergence of the brilliant Jonathan Strange. Young, handsome and daring, Strange is the antithesis of Norrell. And so begins a dangerous battle between two great men whose obsessions and dabblings with the dark arts will cause more trouble than they can possibly imagine.