Read Rivers Of London Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on May 6, 2026

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The Rivers of London series, penned by British author Ben Aaronovitch, is a unique blend of urban fantasy, police procedural, and magical realism that has captivated readers since its debut in 2011. Set against the vivid backdrop of contemporary London, the series follows the adventures of Peter Grant, a young constable who discovers he has a latent magical ability and is subsequently recruited into a secret branch of the Metropolitan Police dedicated to investigating crimes involving the supernatural.

What sets Rivers of London apart is its remarkable fusion of myth and modernity: the city of London itself becomes a living character, with its rivers, streets, and landmarks steeped in history, folklore, and mysticism. Readers are not just treated to thrilling crime-solving adventures, but also to a richly textured exploration of the city’s hidden magical undercurrents. The series balances suspenseful mysteries, witty dialogue, and deep emotional resonance, making it a standout in contemporary fantasy literature.

List Of Rivers Of London Books In Order

More On Rivers Of London Books In Chronological Order

1. Rivers of London (2011)

This is where everything begins! In *Rivers of London*, we meet Peter Grant, a rookie cop in London who accidentally becomes an apprentice to the very peculiar world of supernatural policing. Peter’s life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters a ghost while investigating a murder, leading him to the quirky and mysterious world of the Folly, a secret division of the police that deals with magic and strange happenings. It’s got an intriguing blend of detective noir, magic, and sharp humor that sets the tone for the entire series.

2. Moon Over Soho (2012)

In the second book, *Moon Over Soho*, Peter Grant’s life gets even more complicated. He’s investigating a series of mysterious deaths among jazz musicians that appear to be linked to some dark, magical forces. It’s a thrilling mix of London’s vibrant music scene and the world of magic, with Peter trying to juggle his work, his magical training, and, of course, some personal dilemmas. There’s a great deal more focus on Peter’s growth, and the deeper he gets into the supernatural, the more he has to rely on his quick wit and unexpected alliances.

3. Whispers Under Ground (2013)

*Whispers Under Ground* takes Peter Grant deep into London’s underground world. When a body is found in the city’s famous Tube system, Peter must investigate, uncovering a terrifying mystery involving magical creatures and ancient beings. As he continues his journey into the magical realm, we see his bond with his mentor, Nightingale, deepen. The book highlights a lot of London’s hidden, often overlooked, historical and magical layers, which is something the series does brilliantly.

4. Broken Homes (2014)

Peter’s journey takes an unexpected turn in *Broken Homes*, where he uncovers a magical conspiracy that’s tied to some of the city’s most iconic buildings. It’s a blend of urban fantasy and psychological thriller, with lots of plot twists and tension building up throughout the book. The action is intense, and Peter’s involvement in a dangerous game of politics and power dynamics within the magical world brings him face to face with forces he may not be ready to challenge.

5. Foxglove Summer (2014)

In *Foxglove Summer*, Peter heads out of London for a change of pace and a new investigation. He’s looking into the disappearance of two young girls in a small village, but, as you can imagine, nothing is as simple as it seems when magic’s involved. There’s a lot of focus on Peter trying to balance his personal growth with his growing magical abilities, and it’s a great book for those who like a more quiet, reflective story compared to the hustle and bustle of the earlier books. It’s still packed with mystery and twists!

6. The Hanging Tree (2016)

In *The Hanging Tree*, the stakes are higher than ever as Peter is pulled into a deadly game involving rich, powerful families, dangerous magic, and long-buried secrets. A wealthy woman’s life is at risk, and Peter finds himself navigating the most complicated and dangerous aspects of London’s magical society. This book really deepens the lore and introduces some of the darker, more complex parts of the magical world. Peter’s personal journey also takes a more serious tone as he struggles with moral dilemmas and the consequences of his magical actions.

7. Lies Sleeping (2018)

*Lies Sleeping* sees Peter Grant embroiled in a high-stakes pursuit of a criminal mastermind who’s using magic in some truly sinister ways. The book brings several story arcs from the previous books to a head, and it’s packed with action, intrigue, and plenty of surprises. There’s a lot of focus on Peter’s growing power and his relationship with the rest of the magical world, including old enemies who might be hiding even darker secrets. It’s a fantastic blend of magic, mystery, and deepening character arcs.

8. The October Man (2019)

A slight departure from the main Peter Grant storyline, *The October Man* is a novella set in Germany, but it’s still very much part of the *Rivers of London* universe. It follows a new protagonist, Tobias Winter, a German police officer with a similar role to Peter’s. He’s investigating a case that involves the magical underworld in Germany, and it’s full of twists, mysteries, and the same dry humor that makes the series so beloved. If you’re a fan of the world, this book is a fun, short dive into a new setting.

9. The Furthest Station (2017)

Another novella in the *Rivers of London* world, *The Furthest Station* focuses on Peter Grant and his colleague, Postmartin, as they investigate strange occurrences in the London Underground. The case turns out to be more magical and sinister than it first appears, and it dives deeper into some fascinating aspects of London’s magical world. While it’s a shorter book, it still delivers that same thrilling mystery with a magical twist, and fans of the series will love the way it expands on the world Ben Aaronovitch has created.

10. Rivers of London: Body Work (2020)

This graphic novel is a great addition to the *Rivers of London* universe, focusing on Peter Grant as he tackles a case involving stolen body parts, which leads him into a strange and eerie world. It’s visually striking, with the artwork bringing a whole new dimension to the magic and mystery of London. If you love the books, this graphic novel is a must-read as it explores some darker corners of the magical world Peter has yet to encounter in the main series.

11. False Value (2020)

*False Value* is another fast-paced installment in the *Rivers of London* series, where Peter Grant uncovers a conspiracy involving the world of tech, magic, and corporate espionage. It’s an intriguing mix of modern tech and ancient magic, making for a story that feels both very contemporary and full of the fantastical elements fans love. There’s also a bit of a focus on Peter grappling with his own personal life and what it means to be part of a larger, increasingly dangerous magical world.

12. What Abigail Did That Summer (2021)

A fun, yet mysterious, novella that shifts focus to Abigail, Nightingale’s very powerful daughter, as she uncovers something strange during a summer break. While Peter is not the main character here, the story still ties into the larger world, and it’s a light, fun read that shows a different side to the magical world from Abigail’s perspective. It’s a perfect read for fans looking for something new but still full of the charm and wit the series is known for.

Background On Rivers Of London Books

The Rivers of London series began with the eponymous first novel in 2011, introducing Peter Grant, an unassuming police officer who stumbles into the world of magic after a chance encounter with a ghost. From that point, the series expands into a sprawling narrative encompassing magical politics, ancient deities, and the secret history of London itself.

The books are notable for their meticulous attention to detail, both in the magical system and in the portrayal of London. Each novel intricately maps the city’s geography, from the murky depths of the Thames to the quiet, leafy streets of suburban neighborhoods, blending these locations seamlessly with supernatural occurrences. Aaronovitch’s writing is also characterized by its humor, particularly through Peter’s deadpan observations and the quirky personalities of the magical and human characters around him.

The series now comprises multiple full-length novels, novellas, and short stories, including spin-offs that expand the universe even further. Beyond mere entertainment, the books serve as a cultural map of London, intertwining the mundane with the magical and drawing readers into a world that feels both fantastical and eerily plausible.

Reading Order Explained

The reading order of the Rivers of London series can seem daunting at first because it includes main novels, novellas, and short story collections. While some stories are stand-alone adventures, others build upon key events, character developments, and plot threads that span multiple books. For those wanting the fullest understanding and immersion, following the chronological release order is highly recommended.

A suggested reading order is as follows:

1. Rivers of London (2011) – Introduces Peter Grant, magic, and London’s magical underworld.
2. Moon Over Soho (2011) – Peter’s magical investigations deepen, and he faces a dangerous supernatural threat.
3. Whispers Under Ground (2012) – A gripping mystery tied to London’s underground secrets.
4. Broken Homes (2013) – Explores urban development and ancient magical forces clashing in modern London.
5. Foxglove Summer (2014) – Expands the setting outside London while introducing new magical elements.
6. The Hanging Tree (2016) – Focuses on darker conspiracies and personal stakes for Peter.
7. Lies Sleeping (2018) – The plot threads from earlier books converge with escalating tension.
8. False Value (2019) – A novella focusing on political intrigue and magical espionage.
9. Amongst Our Weapons (2021) – Introduces war-time magic themes and broader stakes.
10. What Abigail Did That Summer (2022) – Explores character backstories and emotional depth.
11. Winter’s Gifts (2023) – A seasonal adventure that blends humor, myth, and action.

Novellas and short story collections, such as Tales from the Folly or The October Man, can be read alongside or after the main novels, as they enrich the universe with side adventures and deeper insights into secondary characters.

What I Like About The Series?

What makes the Rivers of London series truly remarkable is the way it intertwines the mundane with the extraordinary. Peter Grant’s perspective as a relatable, sometimes awkward young officer allows readers to explore a hidden magical world without feeling overwhelmed by exposition. Aaronovitch’s clever humor punctuates the darker and more mysterious elements, giving the series a delightful balance of tension and levity.

I am particularly drawn to the series’ treatment of London itself. The city is more than just a backdrop; it is alive, with rivers that whisper secrets, ancient deities lurking in alleyways, and a magical geography that mirrors the city’s real historical and cultural layers. Each novel feels like a guided tour through both London and an imaginative magical world, simultaneously thrilling, educational, and deeply immersive.

Another standout element is character development. Peter Grant evolves from a green, naive officer into a confident magician-detective while maintaining his humor and humanity. Supporting characters, from the formidable Nightingale to the mysterious Abigail Kamara, are equally nuanced, contributing layers of complexity, tension, and charm to the narrative.

Should You Read Rivers Of London Books In Order?

Yes, reading the Rivers of London books in order is highly advisable. While each novel contains a self-contained mystery, the overarching plot, character development, and interwoven magical lore unfold progressively. Reading out of order can lead to spoilers or confusion, particularly concerning Peter’s growth, key relationships, and the complex magical hierarchy in London.

That said, some novellas or side stories are flexible. They can often be enjoyed independently, but reading them after the main books adds depth and context. In essence, the release order provides the most satisfying narrative experience, allowing readers to grow alongside the characters and appreciate the gradual expansion of Aaronovitch’s intricate magical universe.