Characterization: Often when an author puts his character at their lowest, that is when the character really starts to grab hold of the reader. I think in this fourth edition to the Dresden Files, Butcher does just that. You feel sorry for Harry, but in the end admire him for his willingness to die for what is good and right. The other minor characters were quality, but the focus stays mostly on Harry. Elaine was ok. I liked Murphey better in this one, but I still wish Bob would have a more dominant role in the book.

Plot: One of the reasons I like the Dresden series so much is because it combines my two favorite genres, fantasy and mystery. I felt like the mystery part of the book was a lot better then the previous three. It really had you trying to figure out 'who dun it.' The plot moved well with a huge war scene finish. The book ends upruptly leaving the reader eager to read the next book in the series.

Overall: Definitely delivers in the progression of the series. A quality story with great characters and vivid action.