STORM FRONT by Jim Butcher, Dresden Files #1, Rating: A

I normally try to introduce the books I read and offer reviews of in my own words. However, Jim Butcher has done such an outstanding job of introducing Harry Dresden to us that I'll borrow from his back of cover blurb:

I was thrilled to find out that these books take place in Chicago. Being from the area, it's just an added bonus to have them set in my stomping grounds, even if a lot of the places referenced are fictional. Harry Dresden is an interesting character, the wizarding aspect of him aside even. He's a man of integrity and some old-fashioned values that in this day and age might get him into trouble (opening doors for women, picking up the check for dinner, etc.) But, it's these values that have him offering his assistance to the Special Investigations unit of the Chicago PD when he's called in, despite the fact no one really believes he's really a wizard.

Storm Front begins with a double murder, one that reeks of black magic. And so the hunt begins for Harry to find the doer of the black magic before he finds Harry first. That's not as easy to do as it might sound.

There are many secondary characters that are very intriguing and make the story fun to read. A spirit, Bob, that resides in a skull that likes to bargain for his freedom in exchange for providing Harry information is a hoot. We learn, too, of the wizarding world, the Laws it has in place and Harry must abide by. There are those who aren't too fond of Harry and believe he got away with breaking one of the Laws.

Overall, Storm Front is a great read. I enjoyed the fact that Harry didn't instantly know what was going on. That he's not perfect, has issues. His effect on electronic equipment is quite comical. I rate Storm Front an A and look forward to reading more about Harry Dresden and the rest of the people introduced to us in this book.

©Susan Falk and phantomroses.com