Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch

Synopsis: Rivers of London is the story of Peter Grant, a rather average probationary constable with not much future in the police force other than one filled with paper work at the Case Progression Unit- We do paperwork so real coppers don’t have to. However his fortunes change at the scene of a brutal homicide in Covent Garden, where he meets a ghost who claims to have seen what has happened. It soon becomes apparent that Peter has an aptitude for magic when he meets Inspector Nightingale, the last Wizard in Britain.  Peter soon discovers the original homicide has links to a series of strange events where a seemingly normal person is possessed by incredible rage.  His investigation and training are set to a backdrop of river gods, ghosts and trolls as he tries to track down the spirit of riot that threatens his London. 

Opinion: Rivers of London is an excellent and addictive book, one that you find yourself picking up and loosing an afternoon to without even realising it. The plot is gripping and paced well. Peter’s universe is one where magic is seen as a branch of science and you find yourself wishing more was explained. Peter is well characterised a fairly likeable, with a niggling flaws and the rest of the ensable also add to the experience positively. However, much is left open and mysterious for the sequels, especially the mystery surrounding Peter’s master Nightingale. Rivers of London manages to stand alone as a satisfying and interesting story and avoids the problem of many first in a series books of not standing well on their own as a story. All in all Rivers of london is an excellent book based around an excellent concept with a great cast of characters.