Moon Over Soho

Moon Over Soho follows Police Constable Peter Grant, an apprentice wizard in London's Metropolitan Police Force, as he investigates supernatural crimes. The narrative centers on two cases: the suspicious death of a journalist at a Soho club and a series of mysterious deaths among London's jazz musicians. The story takes place in contemporary London, with a focus on the vibrant and historic Soho district - a hub of music, culture, and nightlife. Grant must balance his duties as a police officer with his magical training under Detective Chief Inspector Nightingale, while navigating relationships with his injured colleague Lesley May and other members of the force. The book combines elements of police procedural and urban fantasy, incorporating British folklore and magic into modern law enforcement. Characters from the first book in the series return, including the mysterious Molly and Dr. Abdul Walid, while new figures emerge from London's jazz scene. The novel explores themes of tradition versus modernity, the intersection of magic and science, and the hidden costs of power, all against the backdrop of London's evolving cultural landscape.

Readers note this sequel maintains the wit and humor of the first book while delving deeper into the supernatural world of London. Many praise the jazz-focused storyline and the growth of protagonist Peter Grant. Liked: - Strong character development, especially Peter's evolving magical abilities - Jazz history and London music scene details - Growing complexity of the magical system - Mix of police procedural and supernatural elements Disliked: - Some found the pacing slower than the first book - Romance subplot received criticism for feeling forced - Multiple storylines made the plot harder to follow - Jazz references overwhelming for non-fans Review Scores: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (85,748 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,853 ratings) LibraryThing: 4.0/5 (656 ratings) Common reader comment: "Better than the first book, but requires more attention to follow the various plot threads." Several reviewers mentioned the darker tone compared to Rivers of London/Midnight Riot.

Storm Front by Jim Butcher A wizard detective in Chicago solves supernatural crimes while navigating complex relationships with law enforcement and magical entities.

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman A London office worker discovers a hidden supernatural version of London beneath the streets of the modern city.

The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud A young magician's apprentice in an alternate London summons a powerful djinni to help him navigate political intrigue and magical conspiracies.

City of Dark Magic by Magnus Flyte A musicologist in Prague uncovers supernatural secrets while investigating the death of her mentor across a city steeped in historical magic.

Midnight Riot by Ben Aaronovitch The first book in the Peter Grant series introduces the London police constable who discovers his magical abilities and joins a special unit dealing with supernatural crime.

🎷 Jazz vampires, a key element in the novel, were inspired by real jazz folklore about musicians who'd mysteriously vanish after achieving musical greatness. 🏛️ The Folly, the magical division's headquarters in the series, was based on the real-life Treadwell's Bookshop, a famous London occult bookstore. 🎵 Ben Aaronovitch worked as a Waterstones bookseller while writing the Peter Grant series, and often drew inspiration from customer interactions. 🌃 Soho, the novel's primary setting, was historically London's premier jazz district, with legendary venues like Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club operating since 1959. 🚔 The author's father, Sam Aaronovitch, was a prominent London economist and Communist Party member, which influenced Ben's detailed portrayal of London's social dynamics.