I recently read (some two years ago) Jonathon Strange & Mr. Norrell. I am taken to understand that it is considered "Gaslamp Fantasy," which, by my research, insists that it is a new sub-category of mystical fantasy. Broadly speaking, the genre is described as an amalgamation of historical and fantasy fiction which takes place in a Victorian or Edwardian setting, but is devoid of any of the popular "steampunk" tropes, instead relying on fae magic, or various other fantasy tropes. That being said, my inquiry is twofold (for the sake of research both personal and professional) - Have you heard of this genre and, if so, would you be interested in reading more in that field? Or, Have you read any Gaslamp Fantasy yourself and, if so, what books have you read and/or what do you like/dislike? My thanks in advance for your consideration.
No and no. How many more sub-genres can a single art form handle? I miss the late 1990s/early 00s when there were like five genres. This obsessive parsing of books into smaller and smaller groups makes me want to beat the crap out of somebody.
Not a wrong sentiment. However, one could argue that these kinds of sub-genres always existed. It's just now, there is a greater level of categorization and delineation between them.
Gaslamp Fantasy is a great genre. It's my favorite genre to write! From what I've found, Gaslamp Fantasy is an umbrella term that steampunk fits comfortably under. Since steampunk deals with magical/supernatural elements during the Victorian/Edwardian time period. You should check out Night Circus by Emily Morgenstern or The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter by Theodora Goss. Just finished those two and thought they were a delight.
