Learned more about Chicago - travelling the el (elevated railway). Thomas protects female practitioners on a boat. Lots of fighting. Lasciel's coin surrendered voluntarily to Father Forthill. The story continues... ( )

Another fantastic romp with Harry. At least he's starting to get some resilience now, and not totally getting beat to hell every five minutes. The background story is really starting to develop, and it's quite interesting. ( )

Started slow as the protagonist investigates magic-related murders, but builds up tension until a terrific final confrontation that neatly explains everything while still being very dramatic.

As in previous books in this series, I still think the protagonist is an unlikeable jerk, but I really liked how his relationships with other characters were developed. Particularly liked the wizard apprentice, the redeemed vampire brother, the demonic imaginary friend, and the mob boss. ( )

As usual, this entry into the Dresden Files hits the ground running, with Harry trying to figure out what his vampire brother Thomas is hiding from him, while also working to figure out who is killing female magic practitioners, and why. But the action quickly ramps up as he is engaged in several supernatural skirmishes, before the whole thing escalates into full-blown paranormal mayhem. As the usual magical combat is anticipated, we also learn more about the complicated political backstory, with vampires seeking to destroy the White Council of wizards, wreaking havoc on training camps and practitioners alike, but also, apparently, warring amongst themselves, struggling to gain power and dominance over their own kind. This may prove to be their undoing, as Harry charges in -- though Harry himself must make some pretty whopping compromises to ensure the safety of those he cares for. The eternal conundrum of the powerful wizard who walks among us. ( )

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