Changes (Dresden Files #12)
Jim Butcher
Roc, 2010
ISBN 045146317X
Hardcover

I almost didn’t review the book.  Two thumbs up, five stars, and an ending that left me in tears for more than an hour and has had me talking to everyone who’s read the book speculating on what’s going to happen next.  Jim Butcher‘s essentially pulled off the urban fantasy equivalent of “What happened to JR?”

I first met Jim Butcher at Conestoga in Tulsa.  He was selling his new book, Storm Front. Being both a sucker for a handsome guy with a winsome face and hopeful that someday someone will buy my book under similar circumstance, I asked him what the book was about.

“It’s essentially an Anita Blake ripoff,” he said. “Only my character’s a wizard.”

Well, he was right and he was wrong.

I quit reading Anita Blake long ago when her series devolved to the point that I couldn’t find anything to cheer for.  On the other hand, I look forward to every Harry Dresden novel, short story, and I even own the DVDs of the television series.

I sound like a broken record here, but Changes is my favorite Harry Dresden novel so far.  The story begins with a phone call–from the last woman Harry ever expects to hear from, his old lover Susan.  They have a daughter and the Red Court’s taken the seven year old girl hostage.

Harry never expected to be a Dad, but his paternal instincts kick in at World Cup level.  There’s nothing he wouldn’t do to save his little girl’s life–and coincidentally, probably the world from the Red Court.

As usual, I read the story at a breakneck pace while wishing it wouldn’t end.  What higher praise could I offer?  No spoilers here, but the end was hard and friends and I who have read the book are still talking about it.  The good news is there are more Dresden Files novels planned and in October, a short story collection’s coming out with a tale narrated by Murphy that will follow up right after Changes.

I’ve never regretted the brief meeting with Jim Butcher.  He’s gained a devoted fan and well, I’ve gotten some of the most fun I’ve had reading urban fantasy.

Reviewed by Rebecca Kyle, June 2010.

1. Kate - July 9, 2010

   This post sounds as though you’ve eavesdropped when I’ve told people about this book! I don’t read that much in the supernatural vein, compared to my usual mystery intake, but I wouldn’t dream of missing out when the next installment of Harry’s life is revealed. And thank you for including the note that more books about him are coming, without giving away any spoilers!

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