First in a series about Peter Grant, a mixed-race London constable who seems doomed to a life of low-stakes departmental paperwork…until he interviews a murder witness who just happens to be a ghost. Before he knows it, he finds himself apprenticed to Scotland Yard’s resident wizard, learning magic, and mediating disputes between the city’s gods. Think Harry Potter, but multiply the wit and grit by a factor of 10.
In addition to the novels in the series, check out the graphic novels based on the characters, starting with Rivers of London: Body Work.
A delightful concept, wonderfully executed. Kell is a magician, one of the last with the power to jump between different versions of London, one of which exists in each different world. The three Londons we see (and the one we don’t) are all beautifully brought to life, as are the characters who inhabit them. Plus, plenty of fast-paced action, magical duels, aspiring pirates, thievery, and mayhem! This is the first book in a series, but has its own satisfying ending. Also available as an eBook and eAudiobook!
My name is Rosie Roche. I have lived in Evanston for 8 years and have worked for the city and NU as an educator and teaching artist. I have 2 young boys who love the library and ask to visit at least once a week. I have never seen such an impressive public library and consider it a gem in Evanston’s crown in terms of inviting space, helpfulness of staff and breadth of collection.
1) The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher by Hilary Mantel (2014)
Her mastery is to write short stories that are intriguing and compelling to read and – in a way that is hard to pinpoint – leave the reader unsettled and disturbed. I see images from the stories at the most unexpected times, many months after reading them. She is so cutting in her condemnation that I wince and laugh to read them.
Continue reading “Rosie Roche's Best Reads of 2014” →
