Who do you call when things get REALLY weird?

WHISPERS UNDER GROUND

Ben Aaronovitch

Del Rey

July 31, 2012

After Midnight Riot and Moon over Soho, Whispers Under Ground is another romp through supernatural London with Peter Grant, Police Constable, Apprentice Wizard and all-around smartass. After discovering that he has magical abilities and can see and talk with ghosts at the scene of a horrific murder in Midnight Riot, Peter has been assigned to Scotland Yard’s Specialist Assessment Unit under the tutelage of Inspector Thomas Nightingale. The SAU is called in when things get really weird.

Inspector Nightingale is one of the last practicing wizards in the UK. Most of the other wizards either were killed or gave up magic during WWII. Born at the beginning of the twentieth century, Nightingale has started aging backward and looks about 40. He has his hands full with Peter, a mixed race 20-something who is not only somewhat hyperactive, but has absolutely no reverence for anything.  One thing Nightingale and Peter know for sure is that there is now another wizard operating in England, the Faceless Man. The Faceless Man has gone over to the dark side and must be stopped.

The investigation begins when Peter is called to the scene of the death of American student, James Gallagher. James Gallagher is found in the Baker Street Underground Station and there are traces of vestigia or magical activity. Not only is he American, but he is the son of an American Senator. The FBI insists on sending over an agent to aid in the investigation, Special Agent Kimberley Reynolds. Agent Reynolds doesn’t like the suggestion of magic- not at all.  As Nightingale is occupied with following up leads on the Faceless Man, the investigation largely falls to Peter and his partner, WPC Lesley May. It leads them on a chase through the Underground Railways and London Sewers.

One of the greatest joys of the Peter Grant series is Peter’s encyclopedic knowledge of London architecture and byways. The city of London almost becomes a character in each book. Most of the characters we have met before are back, Inspectors Stephanopoulos and Seawoll, Dr. Walid and especially Lesley May. Lesley is now back working with Peter and Nightingale after her horrific injuries suffered in Midnight Riot. Of course one must not forget Nightingale’s scary housekeeper, Molly. Peter's Mum and Dad also make a brief appearance.

Whispers Under Ground is highly recommended for urban fantasy fans, especially those who like a bit of snark.

Rating- 4 Stars