Three Upcoming Events for Ben Aaronovitch!


Just a very quick post with three dates for your diaries. Over the next couple of week, Ben Aaronovitch will be taking part in three events to mark the tenth anniversary of RIVERS OF LONDON! The first novel in his best-selling, acclaimed Peter Grant series, here’s the synopsis (in case you’ve missed it somehow)…

My name is Peter Grant and until January I was just probationary constable in that mighty army for justice known to all right-thinking people as the Metropolitan Police Service (and as the Filth to everybody else). My only concerns in life were how to avoid a transfer to the Case Progression Unit – we do paperwork so real coppers don’t have to – and finding a way to climb into the panties of the outrageously perky WPC Leslie May. Then one night, in pursuance of a murder inquiry, I tried to take a witness statement from someone who was dead but disturbingly voluble, and that brought me to the attention of Inspector Nightingale, the last wizard in England.

Now I’m a Detective Constable and a trainee wizard, the first apprentice in fifty years, and my world has become somewhat more complicated: nests of vampires in Purley, negotiating a truce between the warring god and goddess of the Thames, and digging up graves in Covent Garden… and there’s something festering at the heart of the city I love, a malicious vengeful spirit that takes ordinary Londoners and twists them into grotesque mannequins to act out its drama of violence and despair.

The spirit of riot and rebellion has awakened in the city, and it’s falling to me to bring order out of chaos – or die trying.

The first event is in just two days (July 29th), as part of the Cymera Online Book Festival. Ben will be joined by fellow Gollancz author Adam Simcox to talk all things supernatural crime and mystery! Full details can be found here (where you can also buy tickets).

On August 5th, Ben will be hosted by Highgate Library for Books and Beyond, discussing RIVERS OF LONDON, the series, and the latest book WHAT ABIGAIL DID THAT SUMMER. Tickets and details here.

And last, but by no means least, on August 10th Chatham Library will host Ben for another discussion to mark the tenth anniversary of RIVERS OF LONDON. It’s a free event, and as the poster below recommends, give them a call to reserve your seat(s)!

RIVERS OF LONDON and the other books in the series are published in the UK by Gollancz. The first novel was published in North America as MIDNIGHT RIOT, and the series is published by Del Rey (1-3), DAW Books (4-), and Subterranean Press (novellas). The series has also been published widely in translations (see Ben’s page for more details).

Ben Aaronovitch’s FALEŠNÁ HODNOTA due out in September!


On September 30th, Argo are due to publish the Czech edition of FALSE VALUE, the eighth novel in Ben Aaronovitch‘s acclaimed, best-selling Rivers of London/Peter Grant series! Published as FALEŠNÁ HODNOTA, here’s the synopsis…

Nové dobrodružství Petera Granta… a zároveň nový rozjezd! Jsme stále v Londýně, ale Peter už nepracuje u metropolitní policie. Po uzavření případu Muže bez tváře a dalších peripetiích se Peter usazuje, připravuje se na otcovskou roli a zároveň čelí poněkud nejisté budoucnosti. Nastupuje do soukromého sektoru, do IT firmy Terrence Skinnera, kde věci nejsou takové, jaké se zdají být. V rámci zaměstnání se musí naučit splynout s civilisty, kteří jsou ještě větší geekové než on, byť nadále zůstává v kontaktu se starými známými, jež ho provázeli při dřívějších vyšetřováních, ať operují v Rozmaru nebo třeba v Americe. A i zde má samozřejmě slovo magie. Pracoviště skrývá tajemství, technologii, která je sice high-tech a zkoumá možnosti umělé inteligence, ale má kořeny u Ady Lovelaceové a Charlese Babbage.

V pořadí osmý román série Řeky Londýna má všechno, na co jsme byli zvyklí z dřívějších částí – humor i svérázný pohled na svět – a také něco navíc: třeba to, že firma, kde teď Peter působí, nese silný otisk světa Stopařova průvodce po galaxii!

Argo has published all of the other previous novels in Ben’s series in Czechia, as well as a couple of his novellas and comic series (the latter co-authored with Andrew Cartmel).

FALSE VALUE is published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by DAW Books. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm.

Leaving his old police life behind, he takes a job with Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s new London start up: the Serious Cybernetics Corporation.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle.

But magic is not finished with the Met’s first trainee wizard in fifty years…

Because a secret is hiding somewhere in the building. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and twice as dangerous.

FALSE VALUE has also been published in Germany, by DTV.

Here are just a few of the reviews the novel has received so far…

‘Aaronovitch showcases a superlative blend of whimsy and grit in the eighth Rivers of London urban fantasy… The suspenseful mystery at the novel’s core is laced with humor and charm. Jim Butcher meets Douglas Adams in this winning series installment.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘… sees Peter taking on new responsibilities both at work and at home and there’s a definite shift in tone towards the stranger side of magic and the broader implications of what a resurgence of strangeness means to the world at large. Aaronovitch is clearly having a blast building on the world he’s already created… The main character is a delight as always… The tone is light, witty, and action packed as always. Cinematic where has to be and detective chic in other places. And, as always, the description of London is so solid and real that you can practically feel the familiar layer of grime the city has… As always, Ben Aaronovitch takes the reader on an unforgettable ride into the fantastic.’ — Starburst (9/10)

‘… my favorite current series… delightful, compulsive and fresh — with a love of multicultural London evident on every page, wonderfully diverse characters, magic, mystery, and mayhem. Once you start, you will literally not be able to put them down.’ — Lavie Tidhar in Washington Post

‘Wonderfully blending technology and magic… Aaronovitch creates a fantastic blend of real-world London, harbouring a secret magical underground, delicately interwoven with an alternative history that touches on the origins of computer programming and the work of Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage… a solid crime/detective novel that provides fans of the series with another entertaining adventure for Peter Grant complete with dark humour and explosive action.’ — SciFi Now

FALSE VALUE is a rousing episode in the Ben Aaronovitch’s Rivers of London series’ — Canberra Times

‘[A] great read… I enjoyed the new direction and dynamics introduced here. Big things are clearly coming for Peter Grant and I’m looking forward to seeing where the next book will take us.’ — Bibliosanctum

‘[A]nother unmissable instalment of the Rivers of London series’… FALSE VALUE is a welcome addition to the collection and long may they keep coming — Crime Review

‘Packed with treasures and little bits of history and illusion this latest adventure from Ben Aaronovitch sends Peter deep into the ‘silicon roundabout’… What I love about these stories is the way they are told. You could be listening directly to the author, no filters and straightforward dialogue by real people. Peter is great and Nightingale as the much older generation is the comforting hand on the shoulder…’ — SF Crowsnest

ICYMI: Ben Aaronovitch’s Event with Enfield Libraries!


Back in March, Enfield Libraries hosted Ben Aaronovitch for a conversation about his books and writing in general. The video for the event has now been posted on YouTube.

Ben is the author of the internationally-bestselling and acclaimed Peter Grant/Rivers of London series, which to date includes eight novels, three novellas, a short story collection, and eight comic story arcs!

North American Paperback Edition of FALSE VALUE Out Now!


FALSE VALUE, Ben Aaronovitch‘s eighth Peter Grant/Rivers of London novel is out today in paperback in the North America! Published by DAW Books, here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm. Rather than sit around, he takes a job with émigré Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s brand new London start up — the Serious Cybernetics Company.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle. But magic is not finished with Mama Grant’s favourite son.

Because Terrence Skinner has a secret hidden in the bowels of the SCC. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological — and just as dangerous.

DAW Books has published the Rivers of London/Peter Grant series from book four (BROKEN HOMES). The previous novels are published in North America by Del Rey. The novels in the series are published in North America by Subterranean Press. FALSE VALUE is published in the UK by Gollancz, who also publish the rest of Ben’s novels and novellas in the series. The series has also been published widely in translation (check out Ben’s Client page for more details).

Here are just a few reviews FALSE VALUE has received so far…

‘Aaronovitch showcases a superlative blend of whimsy and grit in the eighth Rivers of London urban fantasy… The suspenseful mystery at the novel’s core is laced with humor and charm. Jim Butcher meets Douglas Adams in this winning series installment.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘… sees Peter taking on new responsibilities both at work and at home and there’s a definite shift in tone towards the stranger side of magic and the broader implications of what a resurgence of strangeness means to the world at large. Aaronovitch is clearly having a blast building on the world he’s already created… The main character is a delight as always… The tone is light, witty, and action packed as always. Cinematic where has to be and detective chic in other places. And, as always, the description of London is so solid and real that you can practically feel the familiar layer of grime the city has… As always, Ben Aaronovitch takes the reader on an unforgettable ride into the fantastic.’ — Starburst (9/10)

‘… my favorite current series… delightful, compulsive and fresh — with a love of multicultural London evident on every page, wonderfully diverse characters, magic, mystery, and mayhem. Once you start, you will literally not be able to put them down.’ — Lavie Tidhar in Washington Post

‘Wonderfully blending technology and magic… Aaronovitch creates a fantastic blend of real-world London, harbouring a secret magical underground, delicately interwoven with an alternative history that touches on the origins of computer programming and the work of Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage… a solid crime/detective novel that provides fans of the series with another entertaining adventure for Peter Grant complete with dark humour and explosive action.’ — SciFi Now

‘Written with Ben Aaronovitch’s trademark humor and intelligence, FALSE VALUE looks into the places where technology and magic meet… Given Mr. Aaronovitch’s unflinching commitment to showing off the realistic diversity of modern metropolitan society, this razor sharp commentary will come as no surprise to loyal readers, who will also be pleased at the ongoing developments in Peter’s personal life as he and his goddess girlfriend prepare for parenthood… I envy anyone who hasn’t yet had the pleasure of experiencing these magical police procedurals: you’re in for such a treat, with every book to date being smart, hilarious and wildly entertaining.’Criminal Element

Ben Aaronovitch on the Cover WRITE ON! Magazine!


Just a quick heads-up that Ben Aaronovitch is on the cover of the next issue of WRITE ON! Magazine, which is out tomorrow! Published by Pen to Print, the issue is available free from their website.

Ben’s feature is What’s Your Story?, in which he discusses London, urban fantasy, and ‘why joy and resilience are at the heart of his writing’.

Ben is the author of the critically-acclaimed, internationally bestselling Peter Grant/Rivers Of London series. The latest novel, FALSE VALUE, is the eighth in the series. There are also two novellas set in the world (with a third on the way!), and eight comic collections.

The novels and novellas are published in the UK by Gollancz. The novels are published in North America by Del Rey (1-3) and DAW Books (4-); the novellas are published by Subterranean Press. The comics (co-authored with Andrew Cartmel) are published in the UK and in North America by Titan Comics. All of the books are available in a growing number of translated editions around the world. (Check out Ben’s author page for more details on other international editions.)

Eyes Open: Peter Grant Invades Germany’s U-Bahn!


We are very grateful to Elisa for sharing with us photos of these posters for Ben Aaronovitch‘s two latest books in Germany! Up in various subway stations, we think that’s rather excellent, and wanted to share them here, too.

The two books features are EIN WEISSER SCHWAN IN TABERNACLE STREET (FALSE VALUE, the eighth Peter Grant novel); and DIE FLÜSSE VON LONDON – SCHWARZER MOND ÜBER SOHO, an omnibus edition including the first two novels (RIVERS OF LONDON and MOON OVER SOHO).

Both books are published in Germany by DTV, who have published all of Ben’s books set in this world. The omnibus is out now. Here’s the synopsis for EIN WEISSER SCHWAN IN TABERNACLE STREET, which is due out in Germany on October 23rd…

Peter Grant ist suspendiert…

Peter Grant, unser Londoner Lieblings-Bobby und Zauberlehrling, steht vor völlig neuen privaten Herausforderungen. Welche ihn zu gleichen Teilen mit Panik und Begeisterung erfüllen. Beruflich bekommt er es mit der Serious Cybernetics Corporation zu tun, dem neuesten Projekt des Internet-Genies Terrence Skinner. Und prompt holt die Magie ihn wieder ein. Denn in den Tiefen der SCC ist ein Geheimnis verborgen: eine geheime magische Technologie, die bis weit ins 19. Jahrhundert zurückreicht, dem Zeitalter von Ada Lovelace und Charles Babbage. Und die brandgefährlich ist für die gesamte Welt.

The series is published in the UK by Gollancz; in North America by Del Rey (1-3), DAW Books (4-) and Subterranean Press (novellas). The series has also been published widely in translation. Here’s the English-language synopsis for FALSE VALUE

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm.

Leaving his old police life behind, he takes a job with Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s new London start up: the Serious Cybernetics Corporation.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle.

But magic is not finished with the Met’s first trainee wizard in fifty years…

Because a secret is hiding somewhere in the building. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and twice as dangerous.

Finally, here’s the poster graphic…

Audio Cast Edition of DER BÖSE ORT out now in Germany!


Audible Germany has exclusively published a new cast edition of Ben Aaronovitch‘s fourth Peter Grant novel, BROKEN HOMES! Published as DER BÖSE ORT, here’s the synopsis…

“Die magischen Fälle des Peter Grant” von Ben Aaronovitch sind internationale Bestseller und absoluter Kult. In seinem vierten Fall führt der ausgebildete Buchhändler und ausgezeichnete Drehbuchautor (“Dr. Who”) an einen Ort, an dem Humor und Spannung wie die Magie des Bösen kongenial miteinander verschmelzen. Ein Audible Original der Krimi-Spitzenklasse.

Der Skygarden Tower in London ist ein düsteres Fleckchen. Ein Sozialwohnblock im Süden der Stadt, wo Drogendealer auf skurrile Künstlergestalter, korrupte Politiker und irre Serienmörder treffen. Für einen Polizisten auf den ersten Blick nichts Außergewöhnliches. Aber Peter Grant ist und sieht bekanntlich mehr. Ein Constable, der nicht nur seinen Job macht, sondern als Zauberlehrling in Ausbildung immer auch ein Auge für das Magische und seine Unerklärlichkeiten hat. Und auf sein Gespür ist wieder mal Verlass: Ein vermeintlich unspektakulärer Autounfall, ein wertvolles gestohlene Buch aus der magischen “Weißen Bibliothek” in Weimar und der offenkundig gestörte Architekt des Towers stehen in einem mysteriösen Zusammenhang. Alle Spuren führen nach Skygarden.

Da hilft nur eins: Peter und seine Kollegin Lesley ziehen als verdecktes Ermittlerpaar in eine der Sozialwohnungen und sind so plötzlich Teil der verrückten Nachbarschaft. Doch die verborgenen Kräfte des Ortes ziehen das Böse auf magische Weise an und haben Verbündete, die Peter an seine Grenze bringen.

Audible has also published the first three books as cast editions.

The novels are published in print and digital in Germany by DTV, where they have frequently landed on bestseller lists.

Ben’s Peter Grant/Rivers of London series is published in the UK by Gollancz; in North America by Del Rey (1-3), DAW Books (4-) and Subterranean Press (novellas); and widely in translation.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for BROKEN HOMES

A unique blend of police procedural, loving detail about the greatest character of all, London, and a dash of the supernatural.

A mutilated body in Crawley. Another killer on the loose. The prime suspect is one Robert Weil – an associate of the twisted magician known as the Faceless Man? Or just a common garden serial killer?

Before PC Peter Grant can get his head round the case, a town planner going under a tube train and a stolen grimoire are adding to his case-load.

So far so London.

But then Peter gets word of something very odd happening in Elephant and Castle, on an housing estate designed by a nutter, built by charlatans and inhabited by the truly desperate.

Is there a connection?

And if there is, why oh why did it have to be South of the River?

FALSE VALUE is No.1!


FALSE VALUE, Ben Aaronovitch‘s eighth Peter Grant / Rivers of London novel has enters the Sunday Times Bestseller list at #1!

Massive congratulations to Ben on this amazing milestone! Very well-deserved!

FALSE VALUE is out now in the UK (Gollancz) and North America (DAW Books). Here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm.

Leaving his old police life behind, he takes a job with Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s new London start up: the Serious Cybernetics Corporation.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle.

But magic is not finished with the Met’s first trainee wizard in fifty years…

Because a secret is hiding somewhere in the building. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and twice as dangerous.

FALSE VALUE is out Tomorrow in North America!


Ben Aaronovitch‘s eighth Peter Grant novel, FALSE VALUE is out today in North America! Published by DAW Books, here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm. Rather than sit around, he takes a job with émigré Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s brand new London start up – the Serious Cybernetics Company.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle. But magic is not finished with Mama Grant’s favourite son.

Because Terrence Skinner has a secret hidden in the bowels of the SCC. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and just as dangerous.

The novel was published in the UK last week, by Gollancz.

Here’s what Publishers Weekly had to say about FALSE VALUE, in their Starred Review: ‘Aaronovitch showcases a superlative blend of whimsy and grit in the eighth Rivers of London urban fantasy… The suspenseful mystery at the novel’s core is laced with humor and charm. Jim Butcher meets Douglas Adams in this winning series installment.’

The series is published in North America by Del Rey (1-3) and DAW Books (4-). Gollancz has published all of the Peter Grant books in the UK. The most recent book, THE OCTOBER MAN, is set in the same universe but has a new protagonist (Tobias Winter) and a new location (Germany) — it is published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by Subterranean Press.

There is also a comic series set in the same universe, written by Ben and Andrew Cartmel — the first seven story arcs are complete, published by Titan Comics.

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received so far…

‘It is smart, funny and filled with oddness.’ — Terry Brooks on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… witty, fun, and full of vivid characters, and the plot twists will keep even seasoned mystery fans guessing.’ — Publishers Weekly on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… enormous storytelling gusto… exhilarating and emotionally affecting…’ — SF Reviews on MOON OVER SOHO

‘… a relentlessly entertaining, fast-moving and enjoyable urban fantasy with intriguing hints of greater depth waiting to be explored.’ — Wertzone on MOON OVER SOHO

‘One of the most refreshing things about former Doctor Who writer Aaronvitch’s Rivers of London series of magical procedurals is that they are blessedly free of manufactured rivalries… This fast, engrossing novel is enjoyable, cheerful, and accessible to new readers.’ — Publishers Weekly on WHISPERS UNDERGROUND

‘… the Peter Grant novels by Ben Aaronovitch are a great way to feel like you’re actually visiting the city by the Thames… Ben Aaronovitch writes some of the funniest prose in current fantasy. These books are extremely entertaining, mainly because narrator Peter Grant has a hilarious voice and a sly sense of humor… quirkily effective prose and dry humor, making it a pure pleasure to read… I’m usually not a big fan of urban fantasy, but this series is so much fun that I always look forward to the next installment. If you’re looking for a fast-moving, entertaining urban fantasy that’ll make you feel like you’re visiting London vicariously this summer, pick up series opener MIDNIGHT RIOT / RIVERS OF LONDON. And if you’ve already read the first two books, you’ll probably be glad to hear that the newest installment WHISPERS UNDER GROUND is just as good.’ — Tor.com

‘PC Peter Grant and his co-worker Lesley, two of the few policemen in London who can practice magic, are still working under Nightingale, who must be the oldest police officer in England… not that he looks it. A low-income housing tower gone awry, an old enemy with a bone to pick… and a shocker of an ending – BROKEN HOMES is a delight.’ — Charlaine Harris

‘Smart, edgy and dramatic, BROKEN HOMES is a fine addition to a fascinating series.’ — Locus

‘When it comes to the genre of urban fantasy, connoisseurs tend to rate Ben Aaronovitch’s RIVERS OF LONDON and its sequels quite highly. The adventures of Metropolitan policeman and apprentice wizard Peter Grant have thus far all been based around the city of London (it is, after all, where he works), and the author has drawn from the capital’s rich geography and occult history to create a profound and engaging world filled with the grit and stench of the city, though at the same time celebrating its warmth and wealth of choice.  The very setup of the books is both urban and fantastic… The main story functions as an interesting thriller, and the additional commentary on the way the UK handles major incidents like the disappearance of children is both thought-provoking and carefully handled… FOXGLOVE SUMMER is evocative, mysterious, engaging, and, mostly, enormous amounts of fun. Fans of the Peter Grant series will not be disappointed, and those new to the books should start with Rivers in London, safe in the knowledge that the sequels are just as good.’ — Starburst

‘Aaronvitch guarantees a thrilling read; his style and approach to world building are simply too tight and too accomplished not to. THE FURTHEST STATION is a strong example of compact and intense storytelling… We get some nice character development, especially via Peter’s cousin. She’s beginning to dabble in magic herself, which is a little like learning to juggle hand live hand grenades, and this provides a decent B-plot. THE FURTHEST STATION is short, but perfectly formed.’ — Starburst

‘[H]ijinks, explosions, property destruction on the million-pound scale, a rival tradition of British wizardry (or rather witchery) that isn’t too happy with Nightingale’s old boys’ club tradition, and interfering American military contractors. And yes, the Faceless Man. Narrated with Aaronovitch’s trademark blend of wit, sarcasm, and police acronyms, THE HANGING TREE is a breeze of a supernatural detective thriller.’ — Tor.com

‘… recounted with deadpan British wit and irony… packed with fascinating historical detail… Lively and amusing and different.’ — Kirkus on LIES SLEEPING

‘In this enjoyable spin-off from the Rivers of London urban fantasy series, Aaronovitch successfully transfers his blend of the supernatural and humor from England to the Continent as he introduces Tobias Winter, a German police officer who practices magic… Supernatural mystery fans who enjoy more whimsical takes on the paranormal will hope for more of Winter and Sommer.’ — Publishers Weekly on THE OCTOBER MAN

The wait is finally over: Ben Aaronovitch’s FALSE VALUE out now in the UK!


The highly-anticipated, eighth novel in Ben Aaronovitch‘s Peter Grant series, FALSE VALUE is out now in the UK! Published by Gollancz, here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm. Rather than sit around, he takes a job with émigré Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s brand new London start up – the Serious Cybernetics Company.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle. But magic is not finished with Mama Grant’s favourite son.

Because Terrence Skinner has a secret hidden in the bowels of the SCC. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and just as dangerous.

The novel is due to be published in North America next week (19th), by DAW Books.

Here’s what Publishers Weekly had to say about FALSE VALUE, in their Starred Review: ‘Aaronovitch showcases a superlative blend of whimsy and grit in the eighth Rivers of London urban fantasy… The suspenseful mystery at the novel’s core is laced with humor and charm. Jim Butcher meets Douglas Adams in this winning series installment.’

Gollancz has published all of the Peter Grant books in the UK. The series is published in North America by Del Rey (1-3) and DAW Books (4-). The most recent book, THE OCTOBER MAN, is set in the same universe but has a new protagonist (Tobias Winter) and a new location (Germany) — it is published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by Subterranean Press. All of the books are also available as audiobooks.

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received so far…

‘It is smart, funny and filled with oddness.’ — Terry Brooks on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… witty, fun, and full of vivid characters, and the plot twists will keep even seasoned mystery fans guessing.’ — Publishers Weekly on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… enormous storytelling gusto… exhilarating and emotionally affecting…’ — SF Reviews on MOON OVER SOHO

‘… a relentlessly entertaining, fast-moving and enjoyable urban fantasy with intriguing hints of greater depth waiting to be explored.’ — Wertzone on MOON OVER SOHO

‘One of the most refreshing things about former Doctor Who writer Aaronvitch’s Rivers of London series of magical procedurals is that they are blessedly free of manufactured rivalries… This fast, engrossing novel is enjoyable, cheerful, and accessible to new readers.’ — Publishers Weekly on WHISPERS UNDERGROUND

‘… the Peter Grant novels by Ben Aaronovitch are a great way to feel like you’re actually visiting the city by the Thames… Ben Aaronovitch writes some of the funniest prose in current fantasy. These books are extremely entertaining, mainly because narrator Peter Grant has a hilarious voice and a sly sense of humor… quirkily effective prose and dry humor, making it a pure pleasure to read… I’m usually not a big fan of urban fantasy, but this series is so much fun that I always look forward to the next installment. If you’re looking for a fast-moving, entertaining urban fantasy that’ll make you feel like you’re visiting London vicariously this summer, pick up series opener MIDNIGHT RIOT / RIVERS OF LONDON. And if you’ve already read the first two books, you’ll probably be glad to hear that the newest installment WHISPERS UNDER GROUND is just as good.’ — Tor.com

‘PC Peter Grant and his co-worker Lesley, two of the few policemen in London who can practice magic, are still working under Nightingale, who must be the oldest police officer in England… not that he looks it. A low-income housing tower gone awry, an old enemy with a bone to pick… and a shocker of an ending – BROKEN HOMES is a delight.’ — Charlaine Harris

‘Smart, edgy and dramatic, BROKEN HOMES is a fine addition to a fascinating series.’ — Locus

‘When it comes to the genre of urban fantasy, connoisseurs tend to rate Ben Aaronovitch’s RIVERS OF LONDON and its sequels quite highly. The adventures of Metropolitan policeman and apprentice wizard Peter Grant have thus far all been based around the city of London (it is, after all, where he works), and the author has drawn from the capital’s rich geography and occult history to create a profound and engaging world filled with the grit and stench of the city, though at the same time celebrating its warmth and wealth of choice.  The very setup of the books is both urban and fantastic… The main story functions as an interesting thriller, and the additional commentary on the way the UK handles major incidents like the disappearance of children is both thought-provoking and carefully handled… FOXGLOVE SUMMER is evocative, mysterious, engaging, and, mostly, enormous amounts of fun. Fans of the Peter Grant series will not be disappointed, and those new to the books should start with Rivers in London, safe in the knowledge that the sequels are just as good.’ — Starburst

‘Aaronvitch guarantees a thrilling read; his style and approach to world building are simply too tight and too accomplished not to. THE FURTHEST STATION is a strong example of compact and intense storytelling… We get some nice character development, especially via Peter’s cousin. She’s beginning to dabble in magic herself, which is a little like learning to juggle hand live hand grenades, and this provides a decent B-plot. THE FURTHEST STATION is short, but perfectly formed.’ — Starburst

‘[H]ijinks, explosions, property destruction on the million-pound scale, a rival tradition of British wizardry (or rather witchery) that isn’t too happy with Nightingale’s old boys’ club tradition, and interfering American military contractors. And yes, the Faceless Man. Narrated with Aaronovitch’s trademark blend of wit, sarcasm, and police acronyms, THE HANGING TREE is a breeze of a supernatural detective thriller.’ — Tor.com

‘… recounted with deadpan British wit and irony… packed with fascinating historical detail… Lively and amusing and different.’ — Kirkus on LIES SLEEPING

‘In this enjoyable spin-off from the Rivers of London urban fantasy series, Aaronovitch successfully transfers his blend of the supernatural and humor from England to the Continent as he introduces Tobias Winter, a German police officer who practices magic… Supernatural mystery fans who enjoy more whimsical takes on the paranormal will hope for more of Winter and Sommer.’ — Publishers Weekly on THE OCTOBER MAN

Ben also writes, with Andrew Cartmel, an ongoing series of comics set in the series, published by Titan Comics.

Ben Aaronovitch Announces RIVERS OF LONDON RPG with Chaosium!


This past Saturday, Ben Aaronovitch announced a new RPG based on the world of his acclaimed, best-selling Peter Grant novels! Revealed at Dragonmeet, the game is in development with Chaosium, and they will be working in close concert with Ben to develop a fantastic game. We can’t wait to play!

‘I’ve been an RPG player since the original D&D,’ said Ben, ‘so I’m terribly excited and honoured to have Rivers of London turned into a proper roleplaying game and especially because it’s with Chaosium, who produced Pendragon and Call of Cthulhu and such brilliant adaptations as Elric!’

Here’s what Lynne Hardy, associate line editor for Call of Cthulhu and Rivers project lead, said about the upcoming RPG…

‘I started reading Peter Grant’s adventures a few years ago and knew right away that the Folly would make a marvelous setting for an investigatory fantasy game. Ben was intrigued about the potential for a Rivers of London RPG when I broached the idea at a book signing late last year. After a meeting in London in April, we entered negotiations to secure the license.’

We’ll be sure to share any bits of news about the game’s development as and when we can.

Ben’s Peter Grant novels are published in the UK by Gollancz, in North America by Del Rey and DAW Books, and are also available widely in translation. (See Ben’s page for more information about international editions.)

In case you have yet to read any of Ben’s novels (or the comics that are also based on his characters), here’s the synopsis for the first novel, RIVERS OF LONDON

My name is Peter Grant and until January I was just probationary constable in that mighty army for justice known to all right-thinking people as the Metropolitan Police Service (and as the Filth to everybody else). My only concerns in life were how to avoid a transfer to the Case Progression Unit – we do paperwork so real coppers don’t have to – and finding a way to climb into the panties of the outrageously perky WPC Leslie May. Then one night, in pursuance of a murder inquiry, I tried to take a witness statement from someone who was dead but disturbingly voluble, and that brought me to the attention of Inspector Nightingale, the last wizard in England.

Now I’m a Detective Constable and a trainee wizard, the first apprentice in fifty years, and my world has become somewhat more complicated: nests of vampires in Purley, negotiating a truce between the warring god and goddess of the Thames, and digging up graves in Covent Garden… and there’s something festering at the heart of the city I love, a malicious vengeful spirit that takes ordinary Londoners and twists them into grotesque mannequins to act out its drama of violence and despair.

The spirit of riot and rebellion has awakened in the city, and it’s falling to me to bring order out of chaos – or die trying.

(N.B.: The first novel is published in North America as MIDNIGHT RIOT.)

The next novel in the series, FALSE VALUE, is due to be published in February 2020 by Orion (UK) and DAW Books (North America).

Ben Aaronovitch’s ZVONY LONDÝNA out now!


Czech fans of Ben Aaronovitch‘s fantastic Peter Grant series can rejoice: LIES SLEEPING, the seventh novel in the series, is now available in Czechia! Published by Argo as ZVONY LONDÝNA, here’s the synopsis…

Muž bez tváře, pachatel mnoha vražd, podvodů a zločinů proti lidskosti, byl demaskován a je na útěku. Peter Grant, londýnský detektiv a čarodějnický učeň, nyní hraje klíčovou roli v bezprecedentní operaci bezpečnostních sil, která má Muže bez tváře dostat před soud. Peter mezitím zjišťuje, že Muž bez tváře není ještě ani…

Argo has published all of the previous books in the series as well (in addition to the novella THE FURTHEST STATION).

LIES SLEEPING and the other Peter Grant books are published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by Del Rey (#1-3), DAW Books (#4-) and Subterranean Press (novellas). The series has been published widely around the world, and recently passed one million sales in Germany!

Here’s the English-language synopsis for LIES SLEEPING

A deadly history.
A dangerous mystery.
And a dark plan coming to light.

IN LONDON, THE PAST IS NEVER DEAD.
IT ONLY… LIES SLEEPING

Martin Chorley – aka the Faceless Man – wanted for multiple counts of murder, fraud and crimes against humanity, has been unmasked and is on the run. Peter Grant, Detective Constable and apprentice wizard, now plays a key role in an unprecedented joint operation to bring Chorley to justice.

But even as the unwieldy might of the Metropolitan Police bears down on its foe, Peter uncovers clues that Chorley, far from being finished, is executing the final stages of a long term plan. A plan that has its roots in London’s two thousand bloody years of history, and could literally bring the city to its knees.

To save his beloved city Peter’s going to need help from his former best friend and colleague – Lesley May – who brutally betrayed him and everything he thought she believed in. And, far worse, he might even have to come to terms with the malevolent supernatural killer and agent of chaos known as Mr Punch…

Ben Aaronovitch and Lavie Tidhar nominated for Dragon Awards!


We’re delighted to report that Ben Aaronovitch and Lavie Tidhar are on the ballot for Dragon Awards! Due to be presented later this month at DragonCon in Atlanta, Georgia, read on for some more details of the nominated titles.

First up (and pictured above) is Ben’s LIES SLEEPING. Nominated for Best Fantasy Novel, it is the seventh novel in the author’s critically-acclaimed, best-selling Peter Grant/Rivers of London series. Published in the UK by Gollancz, in North America by DAW Books, and in a growing number of translated editions around the world, here’s the synopsis…

Martin Chorley, aka the Faceless Man, wanted for multiple counts of murder, fraud and crimes against humanity, has been unmasked and is on the run.

Peter Grant, Detective Constable and apprentice wizard, now plays a key role in an unprecedented joint operation to bring Chorley to justice.

But even as the unwieldy might of the Metropolitan Police bears down on its foe, Peter uncovers clues that Chorley, far from being finished, is executing the final stages of a long term plan.

A plan that has its roots in London’s two thousand bloody years of history, and could literally bring the city to its knees.

To save his beloved city Peter’s going to need help from his former best friend and colleague – Lesley May – who brutally betrayed him and everything he thought she believed in. And, far worse, he might even have to come to terms with the malevolent supernatural killer and agent of chaos known as Mr Punch…

‘[F]unny… laugh-out-loud prose… fans will delight in this outing.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘[R]ecounted with deadpan British wit and irony… packed with fascinating historical detail… Lively and amusing and different.’ — Kirkus

‘Peter Grant’s London has depth, breadth, and a complex array of recurring characters, and every one of the novels can be relied on to start with a bang… Aaronovitch’s Peter Grant has a distinctive voice, one that makes even the bureaucracy of regular police work engaging and compelling… Aaronovitch writes a tense, compelling police procedural with magic. As usual, Grant’s voice is striking, and the action gripping and intense.’ — Tor.com

‘[S]till as fresh as ever… Aaronovitch melds the magical and mundane extremely well. There’s a good mix of ‘London practicality’ and ‘unimaginable terror’ here; this isn’t a world where everyone can take the idea that magic is a real thing in their stride. Fear of the unknown keeps things in the margins, which provides a backdrop for the main characters’ struggles… The plot dives straight into strands from the previous titles, tying up plots going all the way back to book one whilst fraying new threads to keep the intrigue going. The pace is solid and steady, the action is as thrilling as ever and the whole thing ticks along like an old yet exciting friend… A must for fans of the series so far and, as always, we can’t wait to read the next one.’ — Starburst

Lavie’s UNHOLY LAND also racks up another nomination, this time in the Best Alternate History Novel category. Published by Tachyon Publications, here’s the synopsis…

Lior Tirosh is a semi-successful author of pulp fiction, an inadvertent time traveler, and an ongoing source of disappointment to his father.

Tirosh has returned to his homeland in East Africa. But Palestina—a Jewish state founded in the early 20th century — has grown dangerous. The government is building a vast border wall to keep out African refugees. Unrest in Ararat City is growing. And Tirosh’s childhood friend, trying to deliver a warning, has turned up dead in his hotel room. A state security officer has identified Tirosh as a suspect in a string of murders, and a rogue agent is stalking Tirosh through transdimensional rifts — possible futures that can only be prevented by avoiding the mistakes of the past.

The novel is graced with another fantastic cover from award-winning artist Sarah Anne Langton.

‘Lavie Tidhar does it again. A jewelled little box of miracles. Magnificent.’Warren Ellis

‘World Fantasy Award winner Tidhar (Central Station) will leave readers’ heads spinning with this disorienting and gripping alternate history… ‘No matter what we do, human history always attempts to repeat itself,’ Tidhar writes, even as he explores the substantial differences in history that might arise from single but significant choices. Readers of all kinds, and particularly fans of detective stories and puzzles, will enjoy grappling with the numerous questions raised by this stellar work.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘Shifting perspectives will keep readers trying to catch up with this fast-paced plot involving incredible twists on multiple realities and homecoming. This latest from Campbell and World Fantasy Award winner Tidhar (Central Station) is fascinating and powerful.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review)

‘Lavie Tidhar is a genius at conjuring realities that are just two steps to the left of our own… Gorgeous in its alienness…’ — NPR Books

‘Adventurous readers will appreciate this well-written and ambitious book. It should find a place at any library that offers high-quality literary fiction.’ — Booklist

Check out the awesome cover for Ben Aaronovitch’s FALSE VALUE!


In case you missed the reveal at the end of last week, we wanted to take this opportunity to share the stunning cover for FALSE VALUE! The highly-anticipated upcoming, eighth novel in Ben Aaronovitch‘s Peter Grant series, FALSE VALUE is due to be published by Gollancz (UK) and DAW Books (North America) in mid-November 2019. Here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant is facing fatherhood, and an uncertain future, with equal amounts of panic and enthusiasm. Rather than sit around, he takes a job with émigré Silicon Valley tech genius Terrence Skinner’s brand new London start up – the Serious Cybernetics Company.

Drawn into the orbit of Old Street’s famous ‘silicon roundabout’, Peter must learn how to blend in with people who are both civilians and geekier than he is. Compared to his last job, Peter thinks it should be a doddle. But magic is not finished with Mama Grant’s favourite son.

Because Terrence Skinner has a secret hidden in the bowels of the SCC. A technology that stretches back to Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage, and forward to the future of artificial intelligence. A secret that is just as magical as it technological – and just as dangerous.

Gollancz has published all of the Peter Grant books in the UK. The series is published in North America by Del Rey (1-3) and DAW Books (4-). The most recent book, THE OCTOBER MAN, is set in the same universe but has a new protagonist (Tobias Winter) and a new location (Germany) — it is published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by Subterranean Press.

Here’s a snazzy animated cover reveal that Gollancz has made for the book…

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received so far…

‘It is smart, funny and filled with oddness.’ Terry Brooks on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… witty, fun, and full of vivid characters, and the plot twists will keep even seasoned mystery fans guessing.’ Publishers Weekly on RIVERS OF LONDON

‘… enormous storytelling gusto… exhilarating and emotionally affecting…’ — SF Reviews on MOON OVER SOHO

‘… a relentlessly entertaining, fast-moving and enjoyable urban fantasy with intriguing hints of greater depth waiting to be explored.’ Wertzone on MOON OVER SOHO

‘One of the most refreshing things about former Doctor Who writer Aaronvitch’s Rivers of London series of magical procedurals is that they are blessedly free of manufactured rivalries… This fast, engrossing novel is enjoyable, cheerful, and accessible to new readers.’ — Publishers Weekly on WHISPERS UNDERGROUND

‘… the Peter Grant novels by Ben Aaronovitch are a great way to feel like you’re actually visiting the city by the Thames… Ben Aaronovitch writes some of the funniest prose in current fantasy. These books are extremely entertaining, mainly because narrator Peter Grant has a hilarious voice and a sly sense of humor… quirkily effective prose and dry humor, making it a pure pleasure to read… I’m usually not a big fan of urban fantasy, but this series is so much fun that I always look forward to the next installment. If you’re looking for a fast-moving, entertaining urban fantasy that’ll make you feel like you’re visiting London vicariously this summer, pick up series opener MIDNIGHT RIOT / RIVERS OF LONDON. And if you’ve already read the first two books, you’ll probably be glad to hear that the newest installment WHISPERS UNDER GROUND is just as good.’ — Tor.com

‘PC Peter Grant and his co-worker Lesley, two of the few policemen in London who can practice magic, are still working under Nightingale, who must be the oldest police officer in England… not that he looks it. A low-income housing tower gone awry, an old enemy with a bone to pick… and a shocker of an ending – BROKEN HOMES is a delight.’ — Charlaine Harris

‘Smart, edgy and dramatic, BROKEN HOMES is a fine addition to a fascinating series.’ — Locus

‘When it comes to the genre of urban fantasy, connoisseurs tend to rate Ben Aaronovitch’s RIVERS OF LONDON and its sequels quite highly. The adventures of Metropolitan policeman and apprentice wizard Peter Grant have thus far all been based around the city of London (it is, after all, where he works), and the author has drawn from the capital’s rich geography and occult history to create a profound and engaging world filled with the grit and stench of the city, though at the same time celebrating its warmth and wealth of choice.  The very setup of the books is both urban and fantastic… The main story functions as an interesting thriller, and the additional commentary on the way the UK handles major incidents like the disappearance of children is both thought-provoking and carefully handled… FOXGLOVE SUMMER is evocative, mysterious, engaging, and, mostly, enormous amounts of fun. Fans of the Peter Grant series will not be disappointed, and those new to the books should start with Rivers in London, safe in the knowledge that the sequels are just as good.’ — Starburst

‘Aaronvitch guarantees a thrilling read; his style and approach to world building are simply too tight and too accomplished not to. THE FURTHEST STATION is a strong example of compact and intense storytelling… We get some nice character development, especially via Peter’s cousin. She’s beginning to dabble in magic herself, which is a little like learning to juggle hand live hand grenades, and this provides a decent B-plot. THE FURTHEST STATION is short, but perfectly formed.’ — Starburst

‘[H]ijinks, explosions, property destruction on the million-pound scale, a rival tradition of British wizardry (or rather witchery) that isn’t too happy with Nightingale’s old boys’ club tradition, and interfering American military contractors. And yes, the Faceless Man. Narrated with Aaronovitch’s trademark blend of wit, sarcasm, and police acronyms, THE HANGING TREE is a breeze of a supernatural detective thriller.’ — Tor.com

‘… recounted with deadpan British wit and irony… packed with fascinating historical detail… Lively and amusing and different.’ — Kirkus on LIES SLEEPING

‘In this enjoyable spin-off from the Rivers of London urban fantasy series, Aaronovitch successfully transfers his blend of the supernatural and humor from England to the Continent as he introduces Tobias Winter, a German police officer who practices magic… Supernatural mystery fans who enjoy more whimsical takes on the paranormal will hope for more of Winter and Sommer.’ — Publishers Weekly on THE OCTOBER MAN

Ben Aaronovitch’s FAMILIAS FATALES is out now in Spain!


The fourth novel in Ben Aaronovitch‘s Peter Grant/Rivers of London series, BROKEN HOMES, is out now in Spain! Published by Oz Editorial as FAMILIAS FATALES, and translated by Marina Rodil Parra, here’s the synopsis…

¿Podrá el agente Peter Grant detener al mago más peligroso de Londres? El cuerpo mutilado de una mujer y ni rastro de magia: eso es lo único que el agente Peter Grant encuentra en la escena del crimen. Pero tiene razones para creer que el asesino practica la magia… Todas las pistas apuntan al mismo lugar: el Skygarden, una torre diseñada por un loco y habitada por personas desesperadas. Dispuestos a resolver el misterio, Peter Grant y su mentor, el inspector Nightingale, se adentrarán en las tinieblas más allá del Támesis, donde se esconden los secretos más oscuros de Londres.

Oz Editorial has also published the first three novels in the series: RIVERS OF LONDON, MOON OVER SOHO, and WHISPERS UNDERGROUND — as RÍOS DE LONDRES, LA LUNA SOBRE EL SOHO, and SUSURROS SUBTERRÁNEOS.

BROKEN HOMES and the rest of the series are published in the UK by Gollancz. The series is published in North America by Del Rey (1-3) and DAW Books (4-). Here’s the English-language synopsis for BROKEN HOMES

A unique blend of police procedural, loving detail about the greatest character of all, London, and a dash of the supernatural.

A mutilated body in Crawley. Another killer on the loose. The prime suspect is one Robert Weil – an associate of the twisted magician known as the Faceless Man? Or just a common garden serial killer?

Before PC Peter Grant can get his head round the case, a town planner going under a tube train and a stolen grimoire are adding to his case-load.

So far so London.

But then Peter gets word of something very odd happening in Elephant and Castle, on a housing estate designed by a nutter, built by charlatans and inhabited by the truly desperate.

Is there a connection?

And if there is, why oh why did it have to be South of the River?

Full of warmth, sly humour and a rich cornucopia of things you never knew about London, Aaronovitch’s series has swiftly added Grant’s magical London to Rebus’ Edinburgh and Morse’s Oxford as a destination of choice for those who love their crime with something a little extra.

The novellas set in the same world — THE FURTHEST STATION and THE OCTOBER MAN — are published in the UK by Gollancz, and in North America by Subterranean Press.

Here are just a few of the reviews BROKEN HOMES has received since it was first published…

‘Smart, edgy and dramatic, BROKEN HOMES is a fine addition to a fascinating series.’ LOCUS (Feb.2014, p.19)

‘Aaronovitch’s writing is often laugh out loud funny, filled with gripping action, well thought out magical theory and fascinating tidbits about London, the jazz music scene, or even the Sierra Leone expats (which includes PC Grant’s family) living in London… a gripping, humorous series of books that are compelling reading and well worth picking up…’ British Fantasy Society

‘Aaronovitch has a very witty, casual voice, with a tendency toward sarcasm and humor, which is threaded throughout BROKEN HOMES. And a few crazy plot twists will devastate and delight fans in equal measure.’ RT Book Reviews

‘PC Peter Grant and his co-worker Lesley, two of the few policemen in London who can practice magic, are still working under Nightingale, who must be the oldest police officer in England . . . not that he looks it. A low-income housing tower gone awry, an old enemy with a bone to pick . . . and a shocker of an ending – BROKEN HOMES is a delight.’ Charlaine Harris

‘… a totally convincing Sorcerer’s Modern Apprenticeship. Focusing on the career of magically-gifted Constable Peter Grant of the Metropolitan Police, Aaronovitch breathes vivid life into a London where old-fashioned hocus-pocus happens, but where wizard cops may also require the very real firepower of the Tactical Support Unit… [the] conjunction of local government planning departments, shady security firms, and willowy tree spirits that makes the Peter Grant concept so enjoyable. One minute Aaronovitch is describing the deployment of Major Incident Procedure, the next describing how the gods and goddesses of London’s rivers have divided up their territory… Peter Grant as a hero nicely represents modern London – his father a white jazz player, his mum a serial over-doer of food preparation from Sierra Leone – and the books deliver a charming, witty and exciting romp through a magical world not all that far from our own, offering a delightfully escapist sidetrack for summer holiday reading.’ The Independent (Emma Townsend)