Storm Front

This is a page-turner with a fast moving, action-oriented plot and an exciting ending. I was curious to read this for the premise, a noir-ish private eye in a supernatural urban setting.

It didn't really live up to the book that was in my head. Butcher gives wizard/P.I. Dresden a naive, adolescent “voice” as the narrator. It doesn't fit with a character that is supposed to be an experienced, trained, and clever detective with a reputation. Seen through his eyes there is not much depth to the supporting characters either. Dresden tells us way too many of his thoughts. He doesn't leave the reader much room to form their own ideas and impressions. Some of the plot points seemed forced and predictable.

Having said all that, I could read more from this series. I heard they get better as they go along, and Storm Front was an easy, fun diversion.