Review – Storm Front by Jim Butcher
Storm Front follows the supernatural misadventures of a wizard named Harry who lives among the bustling crime-filled neighborhoods of Chicago.
Unlike a certain boy wizard named Harry that we are all familiar with, this wizard named Harry is our cocky, witty and resourceful protagonist that most certainly isn’t a chosen one or your stereotypical everyman hero.
He’s got problems, major problems. He’s upset the governing circle of the world’s most influential wizards are on his back. He is unwillingly thrown into situations well beyond his control. He also has to make overdue rent as a professional practicing wizard while trying to manage a desperately dying dating life.
This premise is what makes Harry Dresden such an amazing character to follow. He doesn’t pretend to be something he isn’t. He’s grounded. A little pessimistic and is simply trying to get by in life without any major hassle.
Alas, mob gangsters, evil wizards, vampire queens, and deranged demons all stand in his way of a happy life. Did I mention that he doesn’t seem to have much luck with the ladies either?
Dresden prefers to spend his life in solitude at home with his pet cat and a horny spirit trapped in an enchanted skull (named Bob) rather than pursuing the richer, higher, glamorous lifestyle Chicago can offer.
His relationship as a (consulting psychic) with the local police is rocky at best. And business is slow as a freelance wizard. But a fella had got to make rent, so when a passing client requests his services, he’s not one to say no… And now our adventure really begins.
Butcher writes fantastic characters. His women are independent, strong, and unique and the villain though a little stereotypically consumed by evil motives, serves his purpose to progress the plot.
There are several times where Butcher really brings a quality level of humor. The story unfolds in first person (something I really don’t have a blight with) as it really allows us to hop into our character’s cowboy boots and duster coat, perceiving this fantasy/supernatural version of Chicago with undeniable perspective and clarity.
Not every character grows in this story but the resolution is strong enough to last the foundations for future installments. The pace can be choppy at points, but I guarantee the final act will have you hooked. The magic system isn’t overly complicated and like many aspects of Butcher’s laws for this fictional universe, is approached light-heartedly and with great creativity.
I’m so glad I decided to get into this series. This is a great first entry. Whatever kind of trouble our gunslinging wizard decides to get into next will definitely have my invested anticipation. It’s 2 am in the morning right now and I have no regrets about staying up late to burn through this awesomely compelling book.
Final Verdict: 8 out of 10
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