Review: Rivers of London: 10th Anniversary Edition by Ben Aaronovitch
When I first stumbled upon Rivers of London, I was intrigued not just by its captivating title but by the promise of a magic-infused London seen through the eyes of a police constable. Written by Ben Aaronovitch, a master of weaving humor and adventure into the fabric of urban fantasy, this 10th Anniversary Edition serves as a delightful reminder of why this series has captivated readers for over a decade. If you’re looking for a blend of police procedural and supernatural mystery, this book is an absolute gem.
At the heart of Rivers of London is Peter Grant, a probationary constable whose mundane police duties take a sharp turn when he encounters a ghost during a murder investigation. This encounter leads him to the enigmatic Chief Inspector Nightingale, the last wizard in Britain. I was immediately drawn to Peter’s voice: witty, sarcastic, yet undeniably relatable. His struggles with the bureaucratic heaviness of police work juxtaposed with the surrealism of his new apprenticeship in magic creates a rich tapestry of comedy and intrigue.
One of the most poignant themes throughout the novel is the idea of identity—both personal and cultural. Peter, a black British man of immigrant parents, navigates a world suffused with racial complexities while grappling with the responsibility of being both a police officer and a budding wizard. The narrative doesn’t shy away from these issues. As Peter observes the different reactions he receives due to his race, it adds layers to his character, making him feel all the more authentic. Aaronovitch’s portrayal of London is equally multifaceted; it’s an amalgamation of its rich history, present-day grit, and an underbelly of magic. The vibrant descriptions made me feel like I was wandering the city alongside Peter, from the bustling streets to the hidden shadows where magic lurks.
The pace of the novel is commendably brisk, filled with twists and turns that kept me eagerly flipping pages. Aaronovitch’s writing is infused with a sense of humor that felt both refreshing and delightful. I found myself chuckling at Peter’s encounters with the various gods and spirits of London. One moment that had me laughing out loud was when Peter muses on the “milliyap,” his own humorous measurement of magical intensity based on the reaction of his small, yappy dog, Toby. This light-heartedness is a key element throughout the book, softening the edges of darker themes and creating a delightful balance.
As I reflect on my reading experience, I can’t help but feel that Rivers of London resonates with readers who enjoy richly developed characters set against the backdrop of a city alive with magic and mystery. Lovers of urban fantasy, police procedurals, or anyone who has ever lost themselves in the streets of a city—be it in reality or imagination—will find joy within its pages.
In conclusion, this 10th Anniversary Edition is a celebration of a story that beautifully intertwines the familiar with the fantastical. It ignited my curiosity, pushing me to explore both the magical and the mundane realms of London anew. I’m left eagerly awaiting my next adventure with Peter Grant and his compatriots, and I suspect you might feel the same way too. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when urban reality collides with the supernatural, this book is a must-read!
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You can find Rivers of London: 10th Anniversary Edition (Rivers of London US Book 1) here >>