There are currently ten books in the “Rivers of London” series, written by Ben Aaronovitch. This urban fantasy series follows the adventures of Peter Grant, a young police officer in London who becomes apprenticed to the last wizard in England. Combining elements of crime fiction, supernatural beings, and a richly detailed London setting, these books have garnered a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.
The Books in the Series:
- Rivers of London (Midnight Riot)
- Moon Over Soho
- Whispers Under Ground
- Broken Homes
- Foxglove Summer
- The Hanging Tree
- The Furthest Station
- Lies Sleeping
- The October Man
- False Value
In the first book of the series, we are introduced to Peter Grant as he discovers his ability to see ghosts and interacts with a variety of supernatural creatures. This sets him on a path to become the apprentice of Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Nightingale, who investigates magical crimes.
This book delves deeper into Peter’s training as he investigates a string of mysterious deaths linked to jazz musicians.
The story explores the dark side of London’s music scene while introducing new magical threats.
Peter’s magical investigations take him underground in this installment as he explores the mysteries lurking beneath London’s streets. A murder investigation leads him to discover an ancient artifact with dangerous powers.
Peter finds himself dealing with architectural magic and sinister forces in this fourth book. He works alongside Nightingale to uncover a plot that could have devastating consequences for both mortals and magical beings.
This book takes Peter away from London and into the countryside as he investigates missing children and a case involving fairies in the picturesque town of Herefordshire.
Peter’s investigations lead him into London’s criminal underworld as he uncovers a drug that grants magical abilities. This book also delves further into the complex relationships between various magical factions.
A novella set between books five and six, “The Furthest Station” sees Peter dealing with ghosts on the London Underground.
This shorter installment provides a self-contained story while still advancing the series’ overarching plot.
In this penultimate book of the series, Peter faces off against his most dangerous adversary yet – the Faceless Man. The fate of both Nightingale and London itself hangs in the balance.
Although not directly part of the main series, “The October Man” is a spin-off novella that takes place in Germany and introduces a new protagonist, Tobias Winter, who works for the German equivalent of Nightingale’s department.
This latest installment sees Peter embroiled in corporate espionage and dangerous technology as he investigates a magical app and its connection to a sinister plot. With familiar faces returning, this book keeps readers on their toes.
Conclusion:
The “Rivers of London” series offers an enchanting blend of magic, mystery, and urban exploration. With each book adding new layers to the intricate world Ben Aaronovitch has created, fans eagerly await future installments to see where Peter Grant’s adventures will take him next. So if you’re craving a thrilling and magical journey through the streets of London, be sure to dive into this captivating series!