A Book Review: Storm Front by Jim Butcher

"Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does," states the back cover of Jim Butcher's debut novel, "Storm Front." "Storm Front" is the first of the Dresden Files series on which the Dresden Files TV series is based on.

The book is a fast paced novel whose plot follows the dealings of Chicago's very own detective wizard named Harry Dresden. The Chicago police call in Harry to investigate a double murder committed by black magic. Harry is pitted against uncooperative witnesses, shaky evidence, and the Chicago mob boss to find the killer before he strikes again. The plot takes off to a dangerous start after Harry is accused of murdering the two civilians, and it takes an even darker turn when the killer sets his eyes on the wizard. Soon it becomes a race not only for the lives of the innocent civilians, but for Harry's life itself.

The main character of the book was very... well, different. Harry Dresden, the protagonist, is the most flawed wizard you can get. He is by no means graceful, always forgets his gun, and manages to screw up even the simplest spell. The story is told from his point of view (first person) and he comes across as one bad, smart-mouthed middle aged loser. But he is redeemed by his deep rooted moral code, gentleman like nature, and sense of humor. Although Harry seems a bit incompetent, he is very good at what he does. It's just that his dark past sometimes gets in the way.

The plot is very enjoyable to read. The book literally starts off with a bang with the murder of the two victims and Harry arriving at the scene. From then on, it is nothing but plot complications and questions. Butcher doesn't give Harry a break at all throughout the entire story. It is one thing after another for Dresden as the tension mounts to the climax. The suspense builds and builds and the plot gets more and more complicated until the reader finds his or her self believing that there is no way Harry Dresden can pull this off.

Although it was an exceptional read, there are just a few downsides to the novel. First of all, the book is very slow at the beginning as the author establishes the characters, the dire situation, and the laws of magic. And second of all, the book is very graphic in the crime scenes. Jim Butcher leaves no detail out. Some would praise him for this, others would not. It is just a warning for those readers who are not into the whole "blood and guts" thing. On the other hand, for those that are interested in mystery/horror/fantasy, this would fill your need.

All in all, the characters are quirky, the plot is fast paced (once it starts moving), and the overall writing is done very well. It is an exciting paranormal thriller for those that love to read about the more fantastic side of things.