Up until this point I kind of liked the series, but mostly I kept reading it because it was supposed to be so good. This book is where it actually gets good, this and the next 4 (that's how far I've read so far) are worth reading the first 6 for. ( )

What I'm growing to appreciate about these books is that there is something different in each one, and yet they follow the same wonderful pattern. It's not just that the plots are different; I'm always left with a different emotional echo as well. In this case, there was a sense of determination, a doggedness to follow through in the face of the world's constant attempt to beat on Harry which rose to the top. It's an outlook with which I can readily sympathize. Granted, it's not zombies trying to do the beating in my life (I swear I've stopped trying to find zombie books. It seems that they're after me), but Butcher's ability to write Dresden's emotions free of triteness makes the narration both comforting and fascinating. Oh, yeah, and there's a giant undead Tyrannosaurus Rex in this one. Good stuff. ( )

Focus on Bob the skull, and necromancy; the book "Die Leid der Erlking"; and Sue the T-rex from the Field Museum in Chicago. This must be the funniest story so far, following the plot, hopes come true as Jim Butcher writes in his story what I wished he would. Enjoyed this one immensely. ( )

I really had a hard time getting started with this book; I must have picked it up and put it down four or five times over the period of several months before I really got going. Around the midpoint of the book I started to get really interested in it, though, and then finished the book within a couple of days. I think my main problem with the books is that I find the protagonist to be unlikable; he seems an arrogant blowhard, and I find it hard to have much empathy for him. But the world setting is terrific and I actually like the supporting characters, and all my friends seem to love these books. These aspects have gotten me through 7 books in this series so far.

Despite having trouble with the beginning of the book, I found the ending to be quite good. (Spoilers) I especially liked how the hero used the tyrannosaurus as leverage against the rival necromancers, and the very subtle way the demon was able to seduce the hero with her power despite his vehement opposition. Liked the story arc and character growth of the hapless coroner caught in the adventure, and enjoyed the various wizard characters that arrive as reinforcements.
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These get progressively better! ( )