Written by Jim Butcher, published in 2000. Summary and review.
Storm Front is the first book in the Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. This is also the first book by Jim Butcher I have had the pleasure of reading. This is considered an “urban fantasy” novel which introduces us to Harry Blackstone Copperfield Dresden, a wizard-for-hire in late 90’s early 2000’s day Chicago – though very much has the feel of a 40’s detective story. One that evoke the work “noir” in my mind… and I’m not sure the meaning of “noir.” It just feels right.
Basically we follow Harry Dresden, a broke wizard (yes wizard) who is hired by a woman named Monica who needs help finding her missing husband. An odd start as the world is primarily “normal” yet Harry is most certainly a wizard… and ultimately encounters many super-natural things. Makes me wonder how people don’t have more ghost-bustery encounters. Though perhaps it’s like muggles in Harry Potter. I digress.
As Harry works the case, he discovers that there’s much more to it than a simple disappearance. He quickly gets entangled in a series of supernatural murders, a crime syndicate, and a love triangle that threatens to expose the hidden world of magic to the unsuspecting mortals. Which again, isn’t so hidden as his name is in the yellow pages as a wizard… but also people mostly aren’t aware of this magical world. Again I digress.
Harry must both team up and simultaneously dodge the police (both the regular and normal kind) while dark forces close in around him. Harry uses his magical abilities and investigative skills to solve the mystery and clear his name.
This is certainly a fun an unique take on the detective genre. Nice mix of actual detective work and supernatural magic, incantations, and sorcery. Harry Dresden is a a wise-cracking, morally-driven wizard with a little edge to him (at least when baby is in the corner). Karrin Murphy is the a tough-as-nails police detective who often reluctantly partners with Harry; and Bob is a wisecracking spirit trapped in a skull who serves as Harry’s magical encyclopedia. Bob is dope. I like Bob.
Butcher’s writing style is fast-paced, easy to consume, and filled with witty dialogue (my favorite kind). He adds a dash of humor in as well. Written in the first person narrative of Harry, we get insight into our hero’s thoughts, concerns, and personality. He’s definitely a likeable protagonist.
TLDR: Storm Front is an entertaining urban, fantasy, detective “noir” novel that blends crimes scene investigation with magic, mystery and (at times) evil. Certainly, a fun read and a story that I’m looking forward to continuing with his many, many follow up Dresden Files. Would Recommend. 4/5 Stars.
