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The Dresden Files #15
Skin Game
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fantasy (2014)Harry Dresden, Chicago's only professional wizard, is about to have a very bad day…
Because as Winter Knight to the Queen of Air and Darkness, Harry never knows what the scheming Mab might want him to do. Usually, it’s something awful.
He doesn’t know the half of it…
Mab has just traded Harry’s skills to pay off one of her debts. And now he must help a group of supernatural villains—led by one of Harry’s most dreaded and despised enemies, Nicodemus Archleone—to break into the highest-security vault in town, so that they can then access the highest-security vault in the Nevernever.
It's a smash and grab job to recover the literal Holy Grail from the vaults of the greatest treasure hoard in the supernatural world—which belongs to the one and only Hades, Lord of the freaking Underworld and generally unpleasant character. Worse, Dresden suspects that there is another game afoot that no one is talking about. And he's dead certain that Nicodemus has no intention of allowing any of his crew to survive the experience. Especially Harry.
Dresden's always been tricky, but he's going to have to up his backstabbing game to survive this mess—assuming his own allies don’t end up killing him before his enemies get the chance…
Because as Winter Knight to the Queen of Air and Darkness, Harry never knows what the scheming Mab might want him to do. Usually, it’s something awful.
He doesn’t know the half of it…
Mab has just traded Harry’s skills to pay off one of her debts. And now he must help a group of supernatural villains—led by one of Harry’s most dreaded and despised enemies, Nicodemus Archleone—to break into the highest-security vault in town, so that they can then access the highest-security vault in the Nevernever.
It's a smash and grab job to recover the literal Holy Grail from the vaults of the greatest treasure hoard in the supernatural world—which belongs to the one and only Hades, Lord of the freaking Underworld and generally unpleasant character. Worse, Dresden suspects that there is another game afoot that no one is talking about. And he's dead certain that Nicodemus has no intention of allowing any of his crew to survive the experience. Especially Harry.
Dresden's always been tricky, but he's going to have to up his backstabbing game to survive this mess—assuming his own allies don’t end up killing him before his enemies get the chance…
464 pages, Hardcover
First published May 27, 2014
1938 people are currently reading
24235 people want to read
About the author
Jim Butcher
214 books50.5k followersJim Butcher is the author of the Dresden Files, the Codex Alera, and a new steampunk series, the Cinder Spires. His resume includes a laundry list of skills which were useful a couple of centuries ago, and he plays guitar quite badly. An avid gamer, he plays tabletop games in varying systems, a variety of video games on PC and console, and LARPs whenever he can make time for it. Jim currently resides mostly inside his own head, but his head can generally be found in his home town of Independence, Missouri.
Jim goes by the moniker Longshot in a number of online locales. He came by this name in the early 1990′s when he decided he would become a published author. Usually only 3 in 1000 who make such an attempt actually manage to become published; of those, only 1 in 10 make enough money to call it a living. The sale of a second series was the breakthrough that let him beat the long odds against attaining a career as a novelist.
All the same, he refuses to change his nickname.
Jim goes by the moniker Longshot in a number of online locales. He came by this name in the early 1990′s when he decided he would become a published author. Usually only 3 in 1000 who make such an attempt actually manage to become published; of those, only 1 in 10 make enough money to call it a living. The sale of a second series was the breakthrough that let him beat the long odds against attaining a career as a novelist.
All the same, he refuses to change his nickname.
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May 18, 2014
It occurred to me today when I sat down to write a review of this book, that I've never gone into detail about my Dresden Files obsession online.
That said, it's certainly there, in bits and pieces, pretty obvious for anyone who is willing to read between the lines.
And I've talked about my love for the series in public many, many times. Usually in response to the question, "So what are your favorite books?" Or "What should I read while I'm waiting for book three to come out?"
But I've never really stated the depth of my love plainly, all in one place, for all the world to see.
So.
The Dresden files is my favorite series ever. I say that both as a writer, and a reader.
Think about that for a moment. I don't make statements like that casually.
As a series, Dresden trumps out everything else I've ever read, or am currently reading. That includes books I *overflow* with love for, like Lynch's Gentleman Bastard series. Or Robin Hobb's Farseer. Or Sanderson's Mistborn. Or Abercrombie's First Law…
I like the Dresden files more than I like Wizard of Earthsea. More than I like Zelazny's Chronicles of Amber. More than Gaiman's Sandman. More the Lord of the Rings.
As a series, The Dresden Files even beats out Pratchett's Discworld. There. I said it.
I love these books so much that when Ghost Story came out, I read the *entire* series starting at book one, so I would be ready for the newest book.
Then when Cold Days came out, I read the *entire* series again.
That's something I haven't done since high school. I don't have time for that shit. Nevertheless, I did it.
For this book, Skin Game, I would probably have done the same thing again. But this time my obsession went even further. I decided to viciously abuse my meager power as an author. I contacted Jim's editor and begged for an advance reading copy.
She graciously gave me one, probably because the intensity of my request frightened her. Plus nobody wants to see a big beardy man cry. It's just not an appealing thing.
So what did I think of this book? I loved it.
I won't spoil anything. I don't go in for that sort of thing.
I'll just say that I loved it. It's everything I'd hoped for. And that Jim made me cry, like, four goddamn times in this book.
You're walking a thin line, Butcher. I'd hate you if I didn't love you so much…
That said, it's certainly there, in bits and pieces, pretty obvious for anyone who is willing to read between the lines.
And I've talked about my love for the series in public many, many times. Usually in response to the question, "So what are your favorite books?" Or "What should I read while I'm waiting for book three to come out?"
But I've never really stated the depth of my love plainly, all in one place, for all the world to see.
So.
The Dresden files is my favorite series ever. I say that both as a writer, and a reader.
Think about that for a moment. I don't make statements like that casually.
As a series, Dresden trumps out everything else I've ever read, or am currently reading. That includes books I *overflow* with love for, like Lynch's Gentleman Bastard series. Or Robin Hobb's Farseer. Or Sanderson's Mistborn. Or Abercrombie's First Law…
I like the Dresden files more than I like Wizard of Earthsea. More than I like Zelazny's Chronicles of Amber. More than Gaiman's Sandman. More the Lord of the Rings.
As a series, The Dresden Files even beats out Pratchett's Discworld. There. I said it.
I love these books so much that when Ghost Story came out, I read the *entire* series starting at book one, so I would be ready for the newest book.
Then when Cold Days came out, I read the *entire* series again.
That's something I haven't done since high school. I don't have time for that shit. Nevertheless, I did it.
For this book, Skin Game, I would probably have done the same thing again. But this time my obsession went even further. I decided to viciously abuse my meager power as an author. I contacted Jim's editor and begged for an advance reading copy.
She graciously gave me one, probably because the intensity of my request frightened her. Plus nobody wants to see a big beardy man cry. It's just not an appealing thing.
So what did I think of this book? I loved it.
I won't spoil anything. I don't go in for that sort of thing.
I'll just say that I loved it. It's everything I'd hoped for. And that Jim made me cry, like, four goddamn times in this book.
You're walking a thin line, Butcher. I'd hate you if I didn't love you so much…
May 27, 2014
Loved this book, as usual.
I want to start with a quote from Jim Butcher:
That's a snippet from an interview with the guy which you can find here: http://www.aintitcool.com/node/63756
Anyway, here's what the book's about: Since Harry was forced to take the mantle of Winter Knight; he's been subjugated by Mab's wishes and intentions. Of course he's not going to bend to her whim as was demonstrated in Cold Days. Now Mab has him in a bigger quagmire when she loans out his services to Nicodemus and his Denarian followers. Harry is now at odds since he has to follow Mab's order and his conscience is revolting against the very thought of being in the same room as Shiro's murderer. Nicodemus has plans to raid Hades' vault and grab the most famous chalice in recorded history. Harry is back but has never had to take part in a heist and one in which his conspirators might just be more tempted to bag him rather than Christ's cup. Harry's in a bind and almost without any allies...
Now if you are reading this book, you know what to expect in a Harry Dresden story, Jim Butcher piles up the comedy (Parkour!), terrific action sequences, crafty plot twists and some neat character reappearances. Firstly, I think this book rocks so much because of Nicodemus and the Denarians. As far as the villains of this series go, Nicodemus and bunch are pretty much at the top of the sociopathic heap. What makes Nicodemus so intriguing is that he's a willing partner with Anduriel and so far has been the one guy who rivals Harry in his determination! Johnny Marcone is another fascinating rival for Harry but he's not the subject of this book.
Nicodemus and the Denarians are possibly one of the best creations that have sprung from Jim Butcher's imagination. These folks kill, murder, and torture but ultimately they are all heading towards an unseen goal that Harry hasn't been able to decipher. Whenever they have appeared in the series, those books (Death Masks, Small Favor) have been fantastic. Lots of carnage, horrific deaths and rather cruel twists to our heroes but as with every hero (he/she) needs a formidable antagonist to make the story a memorable one. Nicodemus does that in spades for Harry, so far his despicable actions have made him a universally hated figure and with this book, he will go a few steps further.
In the last book, there were revelations about the Outsiders, the Winter court and what is happening on the outer fringes of our dimension/plane of existence. These were some huge revelations that shook up the story told so far. This book doesn't have that many revelations; to be fair it has almost next to none when compared with those of Cold Days. Then why would I say that this book was better than Cold Days?
Simply put this book has all that magic (literal and figurative) that the earlier books (White Night, Changes, Dead Beat, Small Favor, etc.) epic battles, shocking twists, snarky humor, and horrific events that make them all such gripping reads. This book does all that and marks a return to form by the granddaddy of urban fantasy. There have been various events that we have been waiting for:
- Will we get to see a new knight of the cross?
- What happens to Molly after Cold Days?
- Will Karrin and Harry ever get it on?
- Whatever happened to Lasciel and her coin?
- Will Harry survive the Winter knight mantle?
- And many more…
Some of those questions get glorious (and I mean Glorious) answers. There are a few new characters introduced in this one that I hope make a reappearance in the future (such as antagonist Goodman Grey) and plus with all the previous Denarian stories, there is the re-appearance of the characters whose lives were affected previously. This might be easy to figure out but you might get one character right and another one wrong. RAFO. With the last couple of books the comedic aspect of the books was toned down as the plots didn't quite gel with it. This book however marks a fine return in that aspect & fans will definitely be glad for it (Parkour!). Plus with the book's climax, fans will definitely be salivating for Peace Talks (the 16th entry in the Dresden Files) & the author has said that "it probably will be one of the more supernaturally violent books to date!"
With some of the past few books, amid the appearance of angels and questions related to Faith & Divine will. The books have taken a strong jump into Christian theology with regards to its mythos. With this book, that trend continues and it can get confusing as to whether the author is implying that this theological tract is the only correct one in this universe. In his most recent AMA, he did talk about getting the church stuff right & mentioned that he has had "a childhood with a much, much higher than median exposure to theological thought".
Skin Game has a heist plot that runs along the line of most heist stories but what strongly differentiates this one is Jim Butcher. Jim’s characteristic writing skills have made The Dresden Files such a publishing phenomenon. Skin Game continues in that rich vein and if you are a Dresden fan then you will love it. If you aren’t a fan then this book won’t do much to change your mind. This volume didn’t have any deficiencies in my mind but then again I lap up everything Butcher feeds me.
CONCLUSION: Epic, simply epic is the adjective I would use to describe Skin Game. The fifteenth volume was a bit delayed but fans can rejoice as the book more than makes up for the wait. Jim Butcher is back, boys and girls, and Skin Game will have you rejoicing and gallivanting like none other.
I highlighted some great quotes so it's time for me to add them to Goodreads. ;)
I want to start with a quote from Jim Butcher:
For me personally, CHANGES – GHOST STORY – COLD DAYS is the big three-part special episode that comes in the middle of the season like they used to do in the old shows, like in the 70s and 80s. “This is the HUGE, EPIC episode!” and they’d occasionally pre-empt the whole evening to show it to you. That’s what those three books are to me. This will be getting back to what we’ve done before. Harry’s been kind of in isolation for a while, and the events that have happened to him have kind of changed him over time. We get to see a little bit more of that, we get to see a little bit more of him stopping that. And you get back to Chicago to the Scooby Gang and so on. Although he can’t spend as much time with them as I’m sure a lot of readers would have because the whole premise of SKIN GAME is he gets loaned out to the Evil League of Evil so they can pull a job. So that’s what he’s busy doing, he’s got to hang out with all these jerks and psychopaths.
That's a snippet from an interview with the guy which you can find here: http://www.aintitcool.com/node/63756
Anyway, here's what the book's about: Since Harry was forced to take the mantle of Winter Knight; he's been subjugated by Mab's wishes and intentions. Of course he's not going to bend to her whim as was demonstrated in Cold Days. Now Mab has him in a bigger quagmire when she loans out his services to Nicodemus and his Denarian followers. Harry is now at odds since he has to follow Mab's order and his conscience is revolting against the very thought of being in the same room as Shiro's murderer. Nicodemus has plans to raid Hades' vault and grab the most famous chalice in recorded history. Harry is back but has never had to take part in a heist and one in which his conspirators might just be more tempted to bag him rather than Christ's cup. Harry's in a bind and almost without any allies...
Now if you are reading this book, you know what to expect in a Harry Dresden story, Jim Butcher piles up the comedy (Parkour!), terrific action sequences, crafty plot twists and some neat character reappearances. Firstly, I think this book rocks so much because of Nicodemus and the Denarians. As far as the villains of this series go, Nicodemus and bunch are pretty much at the top of the sociopathic heap. What makes Nicodemus so intriguing is that he's a willing partner with Anduriel and so far has been the one guy who rivals Harry in his determination! Johnny Marcone is another fascinating rival for Harry but he's not the subject of this book.
Nicodemus and the Denarians are possibly one of the best creations that have sprung from Jim Butcher's imagination. These folks kill, murder, and torture but ultimately they are all heading towards an unseen goal that Harry hasn't been able to decipher. Whenever they have appeared in the series, those books (Death Masks, Small Favor) have been fantastic. Lots of carnage, horrific deaths and rather cruel twists to our heroes but as with every hero (he/she) needs a formidable antagonist to make the story a memorable one. Nicodemus does that in spades for Harry, so far his despicable actions have made him a universally hated figure and with this book, he will go a few steps further.
In the last book, there were revelations about the Outsiders, the Winter court and what is happening on the outer fringes of our dimension/plane of existence. These were some huge revelations that shook up the story told so far. This book doesn't have that many revelations; to be fair it has almost next to none when compared with those of Cold Days. Then why would I say that this book was better than Cold Days?
Simply put this book has all that magic (literal and figurative) that the earlier books (White Night, Changes, Dead Beat, Small Favor, etc.) epic battles, shocking twists, snarky humor, and horrific events that make them all such gripping reads. This book does all that and marks a return to form by the granddaddy of urban fantasy. There have been various events that we have been waiting for:
- Will we get to see a new knight of the cross?
- What happens to Molly after Cold Days?
- Will Karrin and Harry ever get it on?
- Whatever happened to Lasciel and her coin?
- Will Harry survive the Winter knight mantle?
- And many more…
Some of those questions get glorious (and I mean Glorious) answers. There are a few new characters introduced in this one that I hope make a reappearance in the future (such as antagonist Goodman Grey) and plus with all the previous Denarian stories, there is the re-appearance of the characters whose lives were affected previously. This might be easy to figure out but you might get one character right and another one wrong. RAFO. With the last couple of books the comedic aspect of the books was toned down as the plots didn't quite gel with it. This book however marks a fine return in that aspect & fans will definitely be glad for it (Parkour!). Plus with the book's climax, fans will definitely be salivating for Peace Talks (the 16th entry in the Dresden Files) & the author has said that "it probably will be one of the more supernaturally violent books to date!"
With some of the past few books, amid the appearance of angels and questions related to Faith & Divine will. The books have taken a strong jump into Christian theology with regards to its mythos. With this book, that trend continues and it can get confusing as to whether the author is implying that this theological tract is the only correct one in this universe. In his most recent AMA, he did talk about getting the church stuff right & mentioned that he has had "a childhood with a much, much higher than median exposure to theological thought".
Skin Game has a heist plot that runs along the line of most heist stories but what strongly differentiates this one is Jim Butcher. Jim’s characteristic writing skills have made The Dresden Files such a publishing phenomenon. Skin Game continues in that rich vein and if you are a Dresden fan then you will love it. If you aren’t a fan then this book won’t do much to change your mind. This volume didn’t have any deficiencies in my mind but then again I lap up everything Butcher feeds me.
CONCLUSION: Epic, simply epic is the adjective I would use to describe Skin Game. The fifteenth volume was a bit delayed but fans can rejoice as the book more than makes up for the wait. Jim Butcher is back, boys and girls, and Skin Game will have you rejoicing and gallivanting like none other.
I highlighted some great quotes so it's time for me to add them to Goodreads. ;)
October 15, 2020
I have a Booktube channel now! Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/petrikleo
Skin Game is a parkour to 5 stars. Parkour!
As I’ve mentioned in my recent Booktube video, Rothfuss’s review on Skin Game plus the insanely high average rating on Goodreads was the biggest motivator on why I finally decided to read The Dresden Files. I’m extremely pleased to say that this lived up to all the praises, and I personally think this is one of the best books in the series; it’s definitely up there with Changes for me.
Skin Game is the fifteenth book in The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. After the previous three books that were darker and more serious in tone, Skin Game is bringing the tone of the series back to pre-Changes novels. The differences, though, Butcher managed to maintain all the superb characterizations, engaging writing, and most of all, the significantly improved action sequences of the previous three books into this book. Oh man, it actually annoyed me how much I want to say here. There’s so much brilliant moment packed into this one book, but I genuinely think that the twists and turns, the humor, the heartfelt moment, plus all the “whoaaaaaa!” moment should be experienced by every reader without getting spoiled. There’s a mission, and it’s an incredibly dangerous heist. Although justice, power, faith, hope, and family are constantly recurring themes throughout the series, I think these themes in the narrative of Skin Game were some of the most emotional and memorable yet.
It’s been repeated several times in my review for some books in the series, but I think it’s worth recognizing and remembering just how much has happened since Storm Front; Harry Dresden himself was still 25 years old in the first book, he’s at his late 30’s in Skin Game. More than a decade of stories, heartbreak, and mayhem has occurred to Harry, and believe me that I do feel bad for him; I hope Butcher has a happy/satisfying ending in his plan for him. However, this situation applies to all of Harry’s companions, and I loved reading every single development done for Harry and friends. I must say, there are so many great characters in this series, and Michael and Butters are two of my utmost favorite characters from the series; it’s so great to see them being in the spotlight again here. No spoilers, but let’s just say they were pivotal to why Skin Game became my favorite installment in the series.
Additionally, my favorite villain of the series is now back; it seemed like it’s been so long since I’ve read about him, and I must say I’m starting to like him more now. Butcher has imbued great characterizations and complexities to this particular villain, and I’m also seriously astounded by the unpredictable actions and results packed into this one volume. I mean, I finished reading the last quarter of the novel in one sitting; I couldn’t put the book down at all. Magic, mythologies, monsters, angels, and other creatures were here, it was non-stop engaging actions with high stakes, and the last quarter contained one of the best chapters within the entire series so far.
Picture: Octokong by Mika Kuloda.
I don’t have anything else to say, believe the super positive reviews and average ratings for this book. Skin Game is easily one of the best books in the series, and I’m so damn happy I don’t have to wait six years to read the next installment. Peace Talks and Battle Grounds awaits, and I will binge read them back to back early next month.
You can order the book from: Book Depository (Free shipping) | Bookshop (Support Local Bookstores!)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Michelle, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Zoe.
Skin Game is a parkour to 5 stars. Parkour!
“Did you shout 'Parkour'?" Michael asked.
"Well, sure," I said. "That was kinda Parkour-like."
Michael fought to keep a smile off his face. "Harry," he said, "I'm almost certain one does not shout 'Parkour.' I believe one is supposed to simply do Parkour."
"Do I criticize your Latin battle cries? No, never once.”
As I’ve mentioned in my recent Booktube video, Rothfuss’s review on Skin Game plus the insanely high average rating on Goodreads was the biggest motivator on why I finally decided to read The Dresden Files. I’m extremely pleased to say that this lived up to all the praises, and I personally think this is one of the best books in the series; it’s definitely up there with Changes for me.
“Home is where, when you go there and tell people to get out, they have to leave.”
Skin Game is the fifteenth book in The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. After the previous three books that were darker and more serious in tone, Skin Game is bringing the tone of the series back to pre-Changes novels. The differences, though, Butcher managed to maintain all the superb characterizations, engaging writing, and most of all, the significantly improved action sequences of the previous three books into this book. Oh man, it actually annoyed me how much I want to say here. There’s so much brilliant moment packed into this one book, but I genuinely think that the twists and turns, the humor, the heartfelt moment, plus all the “whoaaaaaa!” moment should be experienced by every reader without getting spoiled. There’s a mission, and it’s an incredibly dangerous heist. Although justice, power, faith, hope, and family are constantly recurring themes throughout the series, I think these themes in the narrative of Skin Game were some of the most emotional and memorable yet.
“Things are not always as bad as they seem. Sometimes, the darkness only makes it easier to see the light.”
It’s been repeated several times in my review for some books in the series, but I think it’s worth recognizing and remembering just how much has happened since Storm Front; Harry Dresden himself was still 25 years old in the first book, he’s at his late 30’s in Skin Game. More than a decade of stories, heartbreak, and mayhem has occurred to Harry, and believe me that I do feel bad for him; I hope Butcher has a happy/satisfying ending in his plan for him. However, this situation applies to all of Harry’s companions, and I loved reading every single development done for Harry and friends. I must say, there are so many great characters in this series, and Michael and Butters are two of my utmost favorite characters from the series; it’s so great to see them being in the spotlight again here. No spoilers, but let’s just say they were pivotal to why Skin Game became my favorite installment in the series.
“Nice try?” Butters said. “Mister, where I come from, there is no try.”
Additionally, my favorite villain of the series is now back; it seemed like it’s been so long since I’ve read about him, and I must say I’m starting to like him more now. Butcher has imbued great characterizations and complexities to this particular villain, and I’m also seriously astounded by the unpredictable actions and results packed into this one volume. I mean, I finished reading the last quarter of the novel in one sitting; I couldn’t put the book down at all. Magic, mythologies, monsters, angels, and other creatures were here, it was non-stop engaging actions with high stakes, and the last quarter contained one of the best chapters within the entire series so far.
Picture: Octokong by Mika Kuloda.
“One doesn’t destroy an empire built on pain and terror neatly,” Michael said, “if history is to be any indicator.”
I don’t have anything else to say, believe the super positive reviews and average ratings for this book. Skin Game is easily one of the best books in the series, and I’m so damn happy I don’t have to wait six years to read the next installment. Peace Talks and Battle Grounds awaits, and I will binge read them back to back early next month.
“The touch of another person’s hands.
“Hands that wrap us in warmth, that hold us close. Hands that guide us to shelter, to comfort, to food. Hands that hold and touch and reassure us through our very first crisis, and guide us into our very first shelter from pain. The first thing we ever learn is that the touch of someone else’s hand can ease pain and make things better.
“That’s power. That’s power so fundamental that most people never even realize it exists.”
You can order the book from: Book Depository (Free shipping) | Bookshop (Support Local Bookstores!)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Michelle, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Zoe.
June 1, 2014
Skin Game
Book 15 of The Dresden Files
By Jim Butcher
A Review by Eric Allen
Soooo... I understand that there are a lot of Dresden fans that have been rather abhorred over the very dark turn that the series has taken during and after Changes. I, for one, don't really understand why these people didn't see it coming. I mean, in the very first chapter of the series he goes to a murder scene where two people had their hearts exploded out of their chests with black magic. That should have been a pretty good indicator as to where things could be expected to go in the future. I think that there's a bit of a misconception amongst these people. They're looking at each book individually, rather than at the story as a whole. They're missing the overarching character development that Dresden is going through, and how this patch of darkness is a necessary thing. How can he overcome and shine more brilliantly, if he's not dragged through the mud, after all? The tension and drama in a story come from caring about the characters, and how much it hurts to see them suffering. And really, in a series that has now reached it's fifteenth volume, to keep things fresh and find new ways for Dresden to develop as a person, this sort of thing really needed to happen. Why? Because he's already faced all of the things he was able to face. Now he has to face the things he couldn't face before. The things that he fears within himself. It's the reason he does what he does, helping others at little or no gain to himself, because he abused his power once, and he is terrified of doing it again, and of the monster that he could very easily become. There is something coming on the horizon. Many people have hinted that Dresden has a destiny to fulfill. Before he meets it, he has to meet the darkness in himself and overcome it. So again, I don't get what all the complaining amongst Dresden fans is all about.
Anyway, on with the review.
Harry Dresden, Wizard for hire, and Winter Knight, has a bit of a problem. He has a psychic parasite growing in his head, and in three days it's going to pop out, kill him, and kill everyone he knows and loves. Using this as leverage, Mab has loaned him out to Nicodemus, one of his many, many enemies, to fulfill one of her debts. If he succeeds, the parasite will be removed. If he fails, he and everyone he loves will die. No pressure. Nicodemus is setting up a good old-fashioned heist to steal the Holy Grail from Hades, lord of the underworld, and must have the power of the Winter Knight to do it. But, as with just about everything Harry has ever encountered in his entire life, things are not as they seem.
The good? When a series starts getting up into the double digits usually one of two things happens, either the story seems to lose track of itself and it wallows directionlessly under its bloated weight, or the characters stop developing because the author has run out of ideas on how they can continue to grow, so they stagnate, never learning anything new, and basically becoming a stereotype of themselves. Lucky for us, Butcher has not done either. Every book in this series is entertaining in its own right. Every book has its own contained little story that comes to a satisfying conclusion, while also moving the bigger story encompassing them all along to the next step. Dresden learns, grows and develops as a character in new and interesting ways in every single volume. Butcher manages to keep going, keeping things fresh with new ideas, new stories, new things to be overcome, and new internal struggles for Dresden to deal with. Each new volume has something new, that tries and tests Dresden in new and interesting ways. There is no sign of the stagnation that seems to seep into series that run this long, and that, my friends, is probably the biggest accomplishment a writer can possibly make.
This book is amazingly entertaining. It has the right mix of action, humor, drama, tension, emotion, quiet moments, and everything else. Dresden deals with a lot of the baggage that he has been carrying around since Changes. It is, basically a story about Harry coming to terms with the choices that he's made, and coming to realize that he doesn't have to bear that burden alone. That he has friends that he needs, and who need him. And that becoming a monster somewhere down the line can only happen if it is by HIS choice. He still fears it, but it seems to me that he's finally beginning to get a handle on the wreck that was made of his life.
I really like how authors in the fantasy genre have been reaching out and pulling in more types of stories into this genre of late, rather than reusing tired old tropes. Jim Butcher and Brandon Sanderson have both used the Heist plot very effectively in their fantasy novels, and Butcher added the private detective element as well. These seem like no big deal to people these days, but let me tell you, even just two decades ago, they would have been seen as HUGE innovations within the genre. These guys are the trailblazers, showing the world that they don't have to stick to their little corner of the fictional realm in their fantasy books, but can reach out and tell other types of stories within their fantasy setting. And I, for one, really enjoy where they are taking the genre.
Michael completely steals the show in this book. He's probably my favorite Dresden sidekick, and has been since he first made his appearance back in Grave Peril. This book seems like it's more his story than anything else, which is strange, because he's only in about half of the book.
The bad? Like I said, there was a pretty large outcry from many of the fans about how dark things started getting during and after Changes. A lot of people didn't like what becoming the Winter Knight was doing to Dresden. There are some places in this book where it really seems like blatant damage control to soothe those fans who were upset over it. Where people council Dresden, and make his situation out to be less terrible as it seemed in the previous book. In my opinion it somewhat cheapens his growth as a character through this patch of darkness in his life, but hey, the publishing industry is a business, and a chapter or three to reassure fans that everything will turn out all right in the end is better than Butcher losing a goodly portion of his readers, I guess. So eh, whatever. It wasn't too bad, but it really did feel as though Butcher chickened out a little, rather than plunging in deeper like I thought he was going to. We'll see what happens next, I suppose.
In conclusion, this book is highly entertaining. It is well written, and even after fifteen books, Butcher finds new and interesting things for Dresden to do and face. Many writers just can't do that. They try and they fail, but Butcher has certainly succeeded. A lot of the rifts between Harry and the supporting cast are repaired to some extent, and he finally begins to heal after some of the terrible things he's chosen to do in the past. This one is a definite must for any Dresden fans. Anyone who has been complaining about the downward spiral into darkness that the series has been taking can rest assured that it appears as though good old Harry Dresden is finally pulling through it, as he always does in the end. I can't wait for the next one.
Check out my other reviews.
Book 15 of The Dresden Files
By Jim Butcher
A Review by Eric Allen
Soooo... I understand that there are a lot of Dresden fans that have been rather abhorred over the very dark turn that the series has taken during and after Changes. I, for one, don't really understand why these people didn't see it coming. I mean, in the very first chapter of the series he goes to a murder scene where two people had their hearts exploded out of their chests with black magic. That should have been a pretty good indicator as to where things could be expected to go in the future. I think that there's a bit of a misconception amongst these people. They're looking at each book individually, rather than at the story as a whole. They're missing the overarching character development that Dresden is going through, and how this patch of darkness is a necessary thing. How can he overcome and shine more brilliantly, if he's not dragged through the mud, after all? The tension and drama in a story come from caring about the characters, and how much it hurts to see them suffering. And really, in a series that has now reached it's fifteenth volume, to keep things fresh and find new ways for Dresden to develop as a person, this sort of thing really needed to happen. Why? Because he's already faced all of the things he was able to face. Now he has to face the things he couldn't face before. The things that he fears within himself. It's the reason he does what he does, helping others at little or no gain to himself, because he abused his power once, and he is terrified of doing it again, and of the monster that he could very easily become. There is something coming on the horizon. Many people have hinted that Dresden has a destiny to fulfill. Before he meets it, he has to meet the darkness in himself and overcome it. So again, I don't get what all the complaining amongst Dresden fans is all about.
Anyway, on with the review.
Harry Dresden, Wizard for hire, and Winter Knight, has a bit of a problem. He has a psychic parasite growing in his head, and in three days it's going to pop out, kill him, and kill everyone he knows and loves. Using this as leverage, Mab has loaned him out to Nicodemus, one of his many, many enemies, to fulfill one of her debts. If he succeeds, the parasite will be removed. If he fails, he and everyone he loves will die. No pressure. Nicodemus is setting up a good old-fashioned heist to steal the Holy Grail from Hades, lord of the underworld, and must have the power of the Winter Knight to do it. But, as with just about everything Harry has ever encountered in his entire life, things are not as they seem.
The good? When a series starts getting up into the double digits usually one of two things happens, either the story seems to lose track of itself and it wallows directionlessly under its bloated weight, or the characters stop developing because the author has run out of ideas on how they can continue to grow, so they stagnate, never learning anything new, and basically becoming a stereotype of themselves. Lucky for us, Butcher has not done either. Every book in this series is entertaining in its own right. Every book has its own contained little story that comes to a satisfying conclusion, while also moving the bigger story encompassing them all along to the next step. Dresden learns, grows and develops as a character in new and interesting ways in every single volume. Butcher manages to keep going, keeping things fresh with new ideas, new stories, new things to be overcome, and new internal struggles for Dresden to deal with. Each new volume has something new, that tries and tests Dresden in new and interesting ways. There is no sign of the stagnation that seems to seep into series that run this long, and that, my friends, is probably the biggest accomplishment a writer can possibly make.
This book is amazingly entertaining. It has the right mix of action, humor, drama, tension, emotion, quiet moments, and everything else. Dresden deals with a lot of the baggage that he has been carrying around since Changes. It is, basically a story about Harry coming to terms with the choices that he's made, and coming to realize that he doesn't have to bear that burden alone. That he has friends that he needs, and who need him. And that becoming a monster somewhere down the line can only happen if it is by HIS choice. He still fears it, but it seems to me that he's finally beginning to get a handle on the wreck that was made of his life.
I really like how authors in the fantasy genre have been reaching out and pulling in more types of stories into this genre of late, rather than reusing tired old tropes. Jim Butcher and Brandon Sanderson have both used the Heist plot very effectively in their fantasy novels, and Butcher added the private detective element as well. These seem like no big deal to people these days, but let me tell you, even just two decades ago, they would have been seen as HUGE innovations within the genre. These guys are the trailblazers, showing the world that they don't have to stick to their little corner of the fictional realm in their fantasy books, but can reach out and tell other types of stories within their fantasy setting. And I, for one, really enjoy where they are taking the genre.
Michael completely steals the show in this book. He's probably my favorite Dresden sidekick, and has been since he first made his appearance back in Grave Peril. This book seems like it's more his story than anything else, which is strange, because he's only in about half of the book.
The bad? Like I said, there was a pretty large outcry from many of the fans about how dark things started getting during and after Changes. A lot of people didn't like what becoming the Winter Knight was doing to Dresden. There are some places in this book where it really seems like blatant damage control to soothe those fans who were upset over it. Where people council Dresden, and make his situation out to be less terrible as it seemed in the previous book. In my opinion it somewhat cheapens his growth as a character through this patch of darkness in his life, but hey, the publishing industry is a business, and a chapter or three to reassure fans that everything will turn out all right in the end is better than Butcher losing a goodly portion of his readers, I guess. So eh, whatever. It wasn't too bad, but it really did feel as though Butcher chickened out a little, rather than plunging in deeper like I thought he was going to. We'll see what happens next, I suppose.
In conclusion, this book is highly entertaining. It is well written, and even after fifteen books, Butcher finds new and interesting things for Dresden to do and face. Many writers just can't do that. They try and they fail, but Butcher has certainly succeeded. A lot of the rifts between Harry and the supporting cast are repaired to some extent, and he finally begins to heal after some of the terrible things he's chosen to do in the past. This one is a definite must for any Dresden fans. Anyone who has been complaining about the downward spiral into darkness that the series has been taking can rest assured that it appears as though good old Harry Dresden is finally pulling through it, as he always does in the end. I can't wait for the next one.
Check out my other reviews.
July 14, 2020
I don't think I cried reading it first time but this time around Michael you made me cry! His kindness, forgiving nature, sacrifices, and his faith, it was just too much to read and not have tears in my eyes. He was remarkable in every book that he has appeared so far but for he outshines Harry here.
April 9, 2023
My love for this series is now almost unprecedented, and quite irrational. My objectivity makes a mad dash for the nearest exit any time Harry Dresden is concerned. Because Harry and I? We have been through some tough shit together, and that is the friendship that's truly unbreakable.
Yeah, I know, I know. But guess what - to me, despite all, they are still near damn perfect.
Jim Butcher has set up a series that fifteen books in is still going strong, is still gathering steam. The small pseudo-noir series about a wisecracking and goofy and ultimately good to the bone Chicago wizard detective has expanded in scope tremendously, gave us some major character growth and managed to build up an impressive overall arc while never failing to deliver a satisfying complete storyline in each installment. It gave us the neverending moments of sheer hilarity, the awesome quotable moments, the fun and well-written action scenes, and even quite a few slightly-choked-up 'I'm not crying; I've just been cutting onions' moments.
It saw Harry Dresden grow and mature, gain everything and lose everything, build up amazing powers and yet never fail to remember where he comes from and who - always 'who' and never 'what' - is truly important to him.
While, of course, consistently remaining a wisecracking guy who can never quite keep his mouth shut while accidentally (or on purpose) blowing up buildings with his magical thuggishness.
Restating his humanity and refocusing - that's what this book seems to have at its core. And Harry deals with it - as before, with a little help from his friends, because despite this best and often misguided intentions, he's not alone. But the danger of seductive power remains, and it's hanging over him even in the happiest moments.
To me, you are perfect.
“Well, hell,” I said. “What’s the world coming to if you can’t trust Santa Claus?”Yes, I know there are probably many reasons why I should be critical of these books. The savior complex. The not-so-rare deus-ex-machina. The neverending wiseass banter at the least appropriate times. The 'great power, great responsibility' repetitions. The pure entertainment quality of these stories.
Yeah, I know, I know. But guess what - to me, despite all, they are still near damn perfect.
Jim Butcher has set up a series that fifteen books in is still going strong, is still gathering steam. The small pseudo-noir series about a wisecracking and goofy and ultimately good to the bone Chicago wizard detective has expanded in scope tremendously, gave us some major character growth and managed to build up an impressive overall arc while never failing to deliver a satisfying complete storyline in each installment. It gave us the neverending moments of sheer hilarity, the awesome quotable moments, the fun and well-written action scenes, and even quite a few slightly-choked-up 'I'm not crying; I've just been cutting onions' moments.
It saw Harry Dresden grow and mature, gain everything and lose everything, build up amazing powers and yet never fail to remember where he comes from and who - always 'who' and never 'what' - is truly important to him.
While, of course, consistently remaining a wisecracking guy who can never quite keep his mouth shut while accidentally (or on purpose) blowing up buildings with his magical thuggishness.
"I’m only a wiseass to monsters.This book is a throwback in some way, a much-needed regrounding and regrouping for Harry, a return to those he holds dear, reestablishing the bonds that had been formed way before the stakes were raised in the previous few books. Karrin Murphy, Waldo Butters, and Michael Carpenter - all of them make a strong reappearance, in their humanity serving as Harry's ties to the human world, the place with which he worries his connection may become too tenuous at times, given that he's now a substantial force in the world of the supernatural.
And people who really need it.
And when it suits me to be so."
“You made a deal. With Mab,” he said simply. “You apparently died. Your ghost showed up claiming you had died, and got us all to do things. Then you show up alive again, only you’ve got freaky Winter faerie powers. You were here for a day before Molly was gone, with freaky Winter faerie powers of her own. And you’ve been back for a year, living out on that island where hardly anyone can get to you, not talking, not helping, not here.” He looked at me for the first time. “Not you. Not the you we all know.”Yes, the Winter Mantle carried by the Winter Knight has its grim responsibilities. And comes with a boss you'd never want to offend - Mab, the Winter Queen, who defies the simple characterization of good or bad. Mab, who gives Harry a task that seems near impossible to complete - and who always appears to have her own coldly calculated hidden motives.
“You know he’s not going to honor the truce,” I said quietly. “He’s going to try to take me out somewhere along the line. He’s going to betray me.”Knowing Harry and his modus operandi, we don't doubt even for a second that skinning his enemies alive - even if only, thankfully, in a figurative sense - is going to be in the works. The question remains, however, - how much is it going to cost him and his friends, and how much mental strain, self-doubting and always keeping himself in check against the never-ending temptation of power he can take before the cracks begin to show.
“Of course,” she said. “I expect superior, more creative treachery on your part.”
_____
“Nicodemus, his daughter, and God knows what else is in his crew,” I said. “I’m working with my hands tied, and you expect me to survive this game?”
“If you want to live, if you want your friends and family to live, I expect you to do more than survive it,” Mab said, sweeping out. “I expect you to skin them alive.”
Restating his humanity and refocusing - that's what this book seems to have at its core. And Harry deals with it - as before, with a little help from his friends, because despite this best and often misguided intentions, he's not alone. But the danger of seductive power remains, and it's hanging over him even in the happiest moments.
“I’m not sure I do anymore,” I said, “and it scares the hell out of me. What happens if she does it? What happens if she turns me into her personal monster? What is she going to do with me then?”Wonderful, fun, fast-paced story that makes me want to reread the previous 14 books so that I can once again relive this whole journey with Harry Dresden, the Wizard of the White Council, the Warden of Demonreach, The Winter Knight, the loyal friend, the worried father, and the awesome guy to grab a couple beers with.
“Oh, Harry,” Michael said. “You’re asking exactly the wrong question, my friend.”
“What do you mean?” I asked.
He looked at me, his face serious, even worried. “What is she going to do with you if she can’t?”
_________
To me, you are perfect.
August 26, 2015
Okay....listen very carefully, or if you're a stickler for accuracy...read very, very carefully:
If for some reason, curiosity, accident or whatever you have decided to look at this review and you HAVEN'T read Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden books, stop whatever you are doing...reading this review, eating a meal, pretending to work as you browse the internet, surgery, having sex, whatever it takes, disconnect your IV tubes, put your oxygen tank on wheels NOW. Pick your favorite way to read a book, E-book, print book, audio book and go immediately to your favorite bookstore or download sight and buy them...all of them.
Right now. Do it....I'll wait....
Now start with the first Storm Front which is a good to excellent book. You have one of the most enjoyable reading experiences imaginable before you and you can't imagine how much I envy you the chance to read them all for the first time. The books hit their stride somewhere in the first few (a lot of us disagree whether they cross into the exceptional range in book 3 or 4) and they just get better. This one is I think the best yet...and I've said that before.
This book may just set the standard for popular fiction.
I love this book!
We have often discussed the failings of our 5 star system here wishing for half stars or a 10 star system. A friend of mine suggested that we might assign the stars Gold and Silver ratings so you could have a 5 silver stars as opposed to a 5 gold stars rate. Here I'd have to go 5 Platinum stars.
Really...not kidding, not hyperbole.
From the first humorous lines to the last touching yet foreshadowing scene the book never once falters or gives a false note. For me and others who have read all these books this is a visit to friends we've made over years. We know Harry will inevitably say something he just shouldn't when being a wise-ass can only make things worse. We know that Karen has depths she's been holding in...and we know oh so much about others.
Mr. Butcher brings my favorite supporting character back into the fray here and does it as close to perfectly as I think any writer could. Reading this book I was brought to tears no less than 3 times...
And really, I'm a macho manly man...I drink sippin' whisky (note spelling) straight, I can shoot out a fly's eye at 100 yards...really, it still moved me. I cried like I would at a good steak.
Look...bottom line before I say a few things more specific and under a spoiler warning...get this book. If you haven't read the Dresden books get them all. This book gets my highest recommendation...I almost need to start a new shelf, "POPULAR FICTION THAT STANDS ALONE".
The story here picks up with Harry in the situation where we left him. Something is trying to get out of his head. Demon Reach and Mab have told him it will blow his head apart. He's been living on the Island unable to leave it as Demon Reach is keeping the thing in his head at bay.
Then Mab shows up...and if I tell you anymore it will be a spoiler and I just wouldn't do that to you.
I have one other thing to say but I'll put it under a spoiler warning:
Okay...just in case you didn't get the point: My highest recommendation...great book, beyond great amazing.
Enjoy.
Update, Jan. 27, 2015By the way Mr. Butcher...Jim, it's come to our attention that you're working on a new series. Could be good news, but sheesh, I'm 62 years old (update Aug. 15th...now 63). How long can I have to wait on the rest of the series Jim.
I mean do you really need to take vacations? sleep more than 3 or 4 hours at a time? eat? Really?
If for some reason, curiosity, accident or whatever you have decided to look at this review and you HAVEN'T read Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden books, stop whatever you are doing...reading this review, eating a meal, pretending to work as you browse the internet, surgery, having sex, whatever it takes, disconnect your IV tubes, put your oxygen tank on wheels NOW. Pick your favorite way to read a book, E-book, print book, audio book and go immediately to your favorite bookstore or download sight and buy them...all of them.
Right now. Do it....I'll wait....
Now start with the first Storm Front which is a good to excellent book. You have one of the most enjoyable reading experiences imaginable before you and you can't imagine how much I envy you the chance to read them all for the first time. The books hit their stride somewhere in the first few (a lot of us disagree whether they cross into the exceptional range in book 3 or 4) and they just get better. This one is I think the best yet...and I've said that before.
This book may just set the standard for popular fiction.
I love this book!
We have often discussed the failings of our 5 star system here wishing for half stars or a 10 star system. A friend of mine suggested that we might assign the stars Gold and Silver ratings so you could have a 5 silver stars as opposed to a 5 gold stars rate. Here I'd have to go 5 Platinum stars.
Really...not kidding, not hyperbole.
From the first humorous lines to the last touching yet foreshadowing scene the book never once falters or gives a false note. For me and others who have read all these books this is a visit to friends we've made over years. We know Harry will inevitably say something he just shouldn't when being a wise-ass can only make things worse. We know that Karen has depths she's been holding in...and we know oh so much about others.
Mr. Butcher brings my favorite supporting character back into the fray here and does it as close to perfectly as I think any writer could. Reading this book I was brought to tears no less than 3 times...
And really, I'm a macho manly man...I drink sippin' whisky (note spelling) straight, I can shoot out a fly's eye at 100 yards...really, it still moved me. I cried like I would at a good steak.
Look...bottom line before I say a few things more specific and under a spoiler warning...get this book. If you haven't read the Dresden books get them all. This book gets my highest recommendation...I almost need to start a new shelf, "POPULAR FICTION THAT STANDS ALONE".
The story here picks up with Harry in the situation where we left him. Something is trying to get out of his head. Demon Reach and Mab have told him it will blow his head apart. He's been living on the Island unable to leave it as Demon Reach is keeping the thing in his head at bay.
Then Mab shows up...and if I tell you anymore it will be a spoiler and I just wouldn't do that to you.
I have one other thing to say but I'll put it under a spoiler warning:
Okay...just in case you didn't get the point: My highest recommendation...great book, beyond great amazing.
Enjoy.
Update, Jan. 27, 2015By the way Mr. Butcher...Jim, it's come to our attention that you're working on a new series. Could be good news, but sheesh, I'm 62 years old (update Aug. 15th...now 63). How long can I have to wait on the rest of the series Jim.
I mean do you really need to take vacations? sleep more than 3 or 4 hours at a time? eat? Really?
April 26, 2021
This is the first time I've read Skin Game. I think the world of it. I think it should be taught in schools. I think it should be adapted onscreen by the best of the best. It should have won a Hugo award at least. In comparison all the subsequent books I've tried to read pale in comparison.
So, Harry Dresden's latest adventure - until Peace Talks comes out on July the 14th - has more twists than a slinky. It has more drama than Hamlet, and more revelations than The Book of Three. I was voluntarily spoiled regarding the story because I thought I'll never read it. I was deterred by the first chapter(Parkour!).
The book picks up from the point where Harry has resided on Demonreach island for a long time. Mab comes roiling by and offers Harry a mission. From then on it's wall-to-wall thrills. There are a few references to movie lines (the ones onscreen not those waiting to gain entry) and the one I like the most is from Raiders of the Lost Ark.
I cried when Butters became a Knight of the Cross. I was told about the resuscitating Sword. But I still shed tears of wonder and excitement when the event occurred. And the event occurred at the right time. I feared Butters would accomplish this feat when chased by Dresden and co. But this story was tighter than super glue on a bullet wound.
I was happy that Dresden did not really tap Murphy when we thought he had. That too showed remarkable restraint by Jim Butcher. A plot device that has been on since the first book. It has been 20 years since that book got printed. 15 books in twenty years is a great feat. It shows stamina. Creativity under duress.
Frankly, I don't see any other book besting Skin Game this year. The author can write the odd putrid story, and I'm first to criticize him when I think he deserves it. But this book is the best of the series so far and from now the only way is down. Especially for us fans waiting for Peace Talks. Since the book after the latter will be called Battle Ground, it presupposes that the peace talks will have been in vain. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Toodle-oo for now.
So, Harry Dresden's latest adventure - until Peace Talks comes out on July the 14th - has more twists than a slinky. It has more drama than Hamlet, and more revelations than The Book of Three. I was voluntarily spoiled regarding the story because I thought I'll never read it. I was deterred by the first chapter(Parkour!).
The book picks up from the point where Harry has resided on Demonreach island for a long time. Mab comes roiling by and offers Harry a mission. From then on it's wall-to-wall thrills. There are a few references to movie lines (the ones onscreen not those waiting to gain entry) and the one I like the most is from Raiders of the Lost Ark.
I cried when Butters became a Knight of the Cross. I was told about the resuscitating Sword. But I still shed tears of wonder and excitement when the event occurred. And the event occurred at the right time. I feared Butters would accomplish this feat when chased by Dresden and co. But this story was tighter than super glue on a bullet wound.
I was happy that Dresden did not really tap Murphy when we thought he had. That too showed remarkable restraint by Jim Butcher. A plot device that has been on since the first book. It has been 20 years since that book got printed. 15 books in twenty years is a great feat. It shows stamina. Creativity under duress.
Frankly, I don't see any other book besting Skin Game this year. The author can write the odd putrid story, and I'm first to criticize him when I think he deserves it. But this book is the best of the series so far and from now the only way is down. Especially for us fans waiting for Peace Talks. Since the book after the latter will be called Battle Ground, it presupposes that the peace talks will have been in vain. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Toodle-oo for now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2017
New book this year!!
Update: 13 Nov 2013, uh, what?! It's not going to be released Dec 3rd?
So I've been lied to for months now?!!!
Someone's gonna have to die for this treachery!
Update: 6 Jan 2014...... WOOHOO. Official release date May 27th.
Update & review: 1 Jun 2014.
Well, well, well. What a game. Mab, you wicked faerie. This book was very good, plenty of action, development for the series, and for Harry in particular. It made it me cry at least twice, maybe three times. Hard to do.
My only complaint; I wish we could've seen Thomas (& McCoy). Five stars.
Update: 13 Nov 2013, uh, what?! It's not going to be released Dec 3rd?
So I've been lied to for months now?!!!
Someone's gonna have to die for this treachery!
Update: 6 Jan 2014...... WOOHOO. Official release date May 27th.
Update & review: 1 Jun 2014.
Well, well, well. What a game. Mab, you wicked faerie. This book was very good, plenty of action, development for the series, and for Harry in particular. It made it me cry at least twice, maybe three times. Hard to do.
My only complaint; I wish we could've seen Thomas (& McCoy). Five stars.
August 22, 2017
[4.5 stars] Following my two (okay, three) least favorite books of the series, I went into Skin Game fearing Jim Butcher had lost his touch and had dragged the story on too long. What a delightful surprise when Skin Game turned out to be one of, if not my favorite Dresden book so far. It had a strong plot (complete with an interesting bad guy), a good integration of the many fantastic side characters, and, of course, a ton of that snarky humor. It quickly turned a novel I was determined to “get through” into a book I couldn’t put down. Skin Game reinvigorated my enthusiasm for the series and I am genuinely excited to see where the story goes next. I don’t know how I’m going to keep myself occupied now that I’m finally up to date with this series. It seems like I’ve been working on it for ages…
Via The Obsessive Bookseller www.NikiHawkes.com
Via The Obsessive Bookseller www.NikiHawkes.com
April 22, 2013
Anyone else really looking forward to Dresden's next encounter with Kincaid? I think as moments go, 'priceless' would be an understatement :)
March 19, 2015
Also reveiwed for Addicted2Heroines
Wow.
Book 15, already?
Huh. Well I guess since I've been reading these books for years now, that sort of makes sense.
So.
How did Skin Game hold up to scrutiny?
It was classic Dresden.
And you can take that whichever way you want.
If you're a die-hard fan of this series, and you still enjoy Butcher's books about the wacky (but lovable) wizard, who can't help getting himself in over his head...then you'll love this one.
However, if you were hoping for something different this time around?
Nope. What it was is what it still is.
Skin Game is the same high-octane novel that I've come to expect from this author, and from this series. And, just like all the other novels, the action never lets up enough for you to catch your breath.
Also, if you were hoping there was some resolution to Harry's multiple problems?
Psssht. Forget it!
Looks like book 16 will hit the stores sometime in 2015, but I'm not counting on that one laying anything to rest, either.
If you've ever read a book from the Dresden Files, then you know there's not really a way to coherently explain everything that goes on in the story.
Too much! Too much!
However, I can say that it involves robbing Hades of the Holy Grail, a parasite that may explode from Harry's head, a hilarious sex scene with Murphy, Butters and Bob's skull on a magically powered skateboard, Michael with the power of an archangel, an Honest-To- God lightsaber, and Santa Clause vetting for a mercenary.
And really, that just scratches the surface...
Sound like your cuppa tea?
If so, then I suggest you go grab a copy.
However, be warned that this is not a series that you can plunk down in the middle of, and hope to catch up. If you're serious about starting this one, you've got a whole lotta reading to catch up on!
Wow.
Book 15, already?
Huh. Well I guess since I've been reading these books for years now, that sort of makes sense.
So.
How did Skin Game hold up to scrutiny?
It was classic Dresden.
And you can take that whichever way you want.
If you're a die-hard fan of this series, and you still enjoy Butcher's books about the wacky (but lovable) wizard, who can't help getting himself in over his head...then you'll love this one.
However, if you were hoping for something different this time around?
Nope. What it was is what it still is.
Skin Game is the same high-octane novel that I've come to expect from this author, and from this series. And, just like all the other novels, the action never lets up enough for you to catch your breath.
Also, if you were hoping there was some resolution to Harry's multiple problems?
Psssht. Forget it!
Looks like book 16 will hit the stores sometime in 2015, but I'm not counting on that one laying anything to rest, either.
If you've ever read a book from the Dresden Files, then you know there's not really a way to coherently explain everything that goes on in the story.
Too much! Too much!
However, I can say that it involves robbing Hades of the Holy Grail, a parasite that may explode from Harry's head, a hilarious sex scene with Murphy, Butters and Bob's skull on a magically powered skateboard, Michael with the power of an archangel, an Honest-To- God lightsaber, and Santa Clause vetting for a mercenary.
And really, that just scratches the surface...
Sound like your cuppa tea?
If so, then I suggest you go grab a copy.
However, be warned that this is not a series that you can plunk down in the middle of, and hope to catch up. If you're serious about starting this one, you've got a whole lotta reading to catch up on!
September 9, 2016
Book 15 was enjoyable but it was not one of the best books of the series. I had several issues with the characters.
The Characters
+ Dresden
I'm sick of Dresden's self-reproach. I know it's a personality flaw and it's never leaving because it's book fucking 15 and still no sign of self-esteem growth but I really wish it would. I'm tired of Urban Fantasy protags hating themselves for simply existing.
Secondly, he spent a year in Demonreach and all he learned was parkour. Granted, he did display a few new spells throughout the book, but these ice spells were still the same blunt force type as his fire spells. He should have learned other types of spells, types that would allow him to detect enemies (e.g. heat-seeking sight), summon familiars (e.g. golems or shikigami), make obstacles (e.g. fog or stalagmites), etc. There's more to magic than calling up a buttload of fire and ice to blast at enemies. For fuck sake, learn a healing spell already!
I couldn't believe parkour was all that he learned. Dresden is a piss-poor wizard. I hate how Dresden uses the excuse that he might kill people if he goes all out because of his inner demon. Yeah, right. It's not as if burning enemies to cinders or icing them to shards aren't deadly, which Dresden does with no hesitation and does often.
Dresden had access to Demonreach, an ageless entity of immeasurable knowledge, and he did nothing with it. For someone who believed the Winter Knight job would make him dark and twisted, he didn't research a way out of it. For someone who regularly told the reader Mab is vindictive and merciless, he put more effort into antagonizing the queen faerie than following his common sense.
I still like Dresden but he disappointed me greatly. The only reason he did not anger me as much as he could have was because I was too busy being annoyed with Nicodemus and infuriated with Butters. Plus, there was mpreg, which was hilarious.
+ Nicodemus
I know a villain is a poor excuse for a villain when I could have done better in his place. There were several ways I thought Nicky could have screwed Dresden. For instance, he could have made Dresden, as his oath-bound accomplice, kill Butters under the idea that Dresden needed to put down anyone who threatened the heist. And not just Butters, Nicky could have twisted the oath in a way that would force Dresden to choose between his friends and obeying the oath where Dresden would obviously choose his friends but would then die for his choice.
Nicky regressed severely. Instead of delicious deception, most of his evil acts were all blunt force that is emblematic of a mortal muscle-head. What little deception he did was predictable which totally defeated the purpose of deception.
Finally, sacrificing that one person was the stupidest thing he could have done. He couldn't bring some of his fanatics along and sacrificed one of them? Trust was the only requirement, and the fanatics have immense trust in him. You gotta be if you're going to dedicate your life to a demonic cult and allow your tongue to be severed. It's not the first time his fanatics died for Nicky in a mission.
+ Butters
I can't believe he didn't — at the very least — receive a verbal lashing after that stunt he pulled in the middle of the book, risking everyone's lives. Then, at the end he got rewarded and Murphy is on the out? Noooooooo! WTF is the Christian God thinking? The dude will barely last a second. The only reason Butters got one over on the bad guy was because of divine intervention so unless the Christian God plans to intervene every time Butters is in a fight, a big fat NO. Worst idea ever.
It was bad enough I was already upset with Butters in the beginning of the book for thinking Dresden was his bitch. HEROES ARE NOT YOUR BITCHES, BUTTERS! They have a life of their own and crap to deal with, especially the perpetually unfortunate Dresden as you very well know. Every time you meet Dresden, you are sewing his insides back inside. And of course, the answer to your question about what he's doing now is paying a debt. DID YOU FUCKING THINK COMING BACK FROM DEATH WAS FREE? No, he doesn't have time to play superhero for the city again!
Good gracious, if Butters wasn't Dresden's go-to doctor, I would have told the dude to fuck off. I half wanted him to die during that stunt. Anyway, I hope poetic justice will be served in future books now that Butters, in his new role as a hero instead of just as a sidekick, will experience the shit Dresden and others go through. Be happy for now with your new metaphorical giant penis, Butters. It's all shitstorm from thereon out.
+ everyone else
Damsels in distress ahoy. It's like no matter how strong the woman is, she still needs Dresden to rescue her. Can the damsels rescue themselves for once? At least Valmont was not as bad as what's-her-name in the last book who was so annoyingly helpless and gloomy to the point where I just wanted her to die as soon as she was introduced.
Ascher wasn't a damsel but I hated how at the end she was treated as one by Dresden. Woman made her life choices just like her partner, Binder, made his choices. I hate how Dresden is pissy towards Binder but not towards Ascher as if both were not similar in many ways. I wish Dresden's bleeding heart quit its sexist tendencies.
Poor Murphy. I love the idea that vanilla humans can be on the same playing field with the mighty supernatural. Damn Butters for taking that idea away from me. Anyway, I hope Murphy goes back to being a cop. I hate how she is unemployed and lacking a future other than being a sidekick for Dresden when he needs her. Yeah, that's a pathetic future. I also don't care for the potential romance between them for all the reasons a character listed in the middle of the book.
It was good to see Michael temporarily in action again. I always thought it was silly how he retired because of his injuries in a world where magic exists and it's possible to come back from death. Seriously, why are healing spells non-existent?
The Worldbuilding
The series wandered in Greek mythology, Hades and his underworld to be specific. It was odd that the reader got to meet Hades, another deity, but still not the Christian God. Instead we meet again one of his lackeys, Archangel Uriel, who made a less than impressive impression. So much for the idea that the enigmatic character knew what was he was doing. Anyway, I wish the series dial down the Christian elements or dial up the other supernatural elements.
Conclusion
I rate Skin Game 3-stars for I like it. I might rate it up a star for re-readability; we'll see. I was disappointed we didn't learn more about the Outsiders and the Black Council. It made only an inch of progress in the story arc. How long is this reckoning going to be delayed? Anyway, the book was enjoyable but it could have easily been better.
The Characters
+ Dresden
I'm sick of Dresden's self-reproach. I know it's a personality flaw and it's never leaving because it's book fucking 15 and still no sign of self-esteem growth but I really wish it would. I'm tired of Urban Fantasy protags hating themselves for simply existing.
Secondly, he spent a year in Demonreach and all he learned was parkour. Granted, he did display a few new spells throughout the book, but these ice spells were still the same blunt force type as his fire spells. He should have learned other types of spells, types that would allow him to detect enemies (e.g. heat-seeking sight), summon familiars (e.g. golems or shikigami), make obstacles (e.g. fog or stalagmites), etc. There's more to magic than calling up a buttload of fire and ice to blast at enemies. For fuck sake, learn a healing spell already!
I couldn't believe parkour was all that he learned. Dresden is a piss-poor wizard. I hate how Dresden uses the excuse that he might kill people if he goes all out because of his inner demon. Yeah, right. It's not as if burning enemies to cinders or icing them to shards aren't deadly, which Dresden does with no hesitation and does often.
Dresden had access to Demonreach, an ageless entity of immeasurable knowledge, and he did nothing with it. For someone who believed the Winter Knight job would make him dark and twisted, he didn't research a way out of it. For someone who regularly told the reader Mab is vindictive and merciless, he put more effort into antagonizing the queen faerie than following his common sense.
I still like Dresden but he disappointed me greatly. The only reason he did not anger me as much as he could have was because I was too busy being annoyed with Nicodemus and infuriated with Butters. Plus, there was mpreg, which was hilarious.
+ Nicodemus
I know a villain is a poor excuse for a villain when I could have done better in his place. There were several ways I thought Nicky could have screwed Dresden. For instance, he could have made Dresden, as his oath-bound accomplice, kill Butters under the idea that Dresden needed to put down anyone who threatened the heist. And not just Butters, Nicky could have twisted the oath in a way that would force Dresden to choose between his friends and obeying the oath where Dresden would obviously choose his friends but would then die for his choice.
Nicky regressed severely. Instead of delicious deception, most of his evil acts were all blunt force that is emblematic of a mortal muscle-head. What little deception he did was predictable which totally defeated the purpose of deception.
Finally, sacrificing that one person was the stupidest thing he could have done. He couldn't bring some of his fanatics along and sacrificed one of them? Trust was the only requirement, and the fanatics have immense trust in him. You gotta be if you're going to dedicate your life to a demonic cult and allow your tongue to be severed. It's not the first time his fanatics died for Nicky in a mission.
+ Butters
I can't believe he didn't — at the very least — receive a verbal lashing after that stunt he pulled in the middle of the book, risking everyone's lives. Then, at the end he got rewarded and Murphy is on the out? Noooooooo! WTF is the Christian God thinking? The dude will barely last a second. The only reason Butters got one over on the bad guy was because of divine intervention so unless the Christian God plans to intervene every time Butters is in a fight, a big fat NO. Worst idea ever.
It was bad enough I was already upset with Butters in the beginning of the book for thinking Dresden was his bitch. HEROES ARE NOT YOUR BITCHES, BUTTERS! They have a life of their own and crap to deal with, especially the perpetually unfortunate Dresden as you very well know. Every time you meet Dresden, you are sewing his insides back inside. And of course, the answer to your question about what he's doing now is paying a debt. DID YOU FUCKING THINK COMING BACK FROM DEATH WAS FREE? No, he doesn't have time to play superhero for the city again!
Good gracious, if Butters wasn't Dresden's go-to doctor, I would have told the dude to fuck off. I half wanted him to die during that stunt. Anyway, I hope poetic justice will be served in future books now that Butters, in his new role as a hero instead of just as a sidekick, will experience the shit Dresden and others go through. Be happy for now with your new metaphorical giant penis, Butters. It's all shitstorm from thereon out.
+ everyone else
Damsels in distress ahoy. It's like no matter how strong the woman is, she still needs Dresden to rescue her. Can the damsels rescue themselves for once? At least Valmont was not as bad as what's-her-name in the last book who was so annoyingly helpless and gloomy to the point where I just wanted her to die as soon as she was introduced.
Ascher wasn't a damsel but I hated how at the end she was treated as one by Dresden. Woman made her life choices just like her partner, Binder, made his choices. I hate how Dresden is pissy towards Binder but not towards Ascher as if both were not similar in many ways. I wish Dresden's bleeding heart quit its sexist tendencies.
Poor Murphy. I love the idea that vanilla humans can be on the same playing field with the mighty supernatural. Damn Butters for taking that idea away from me. Anyway, I hope Murphy goes back to being a cop. I hate how she is unemployed and lacking a future other than being a sidekick for Dresden when he needs her. Yeah, that's a pathetic future. I also don't care for the potential romance between them for all the reasons a character listed in the middle of the book.
It was good to see Michael temporarily in action again. I always thought it was silly how he retired because of his injuries in a world where magic exists and it's possible to come back from death. Seriously, why are healing spells non-existent?
The Worldbuilding
The series wandered in Greek mythology, Hades and his underworld to be specific. It was odd that the reader got to meet Hades, another deity, but still not the Christian God. Instead we meet again one of his lackeys, Archangel Uriel, who made a less than impressive impression. So much for the idea that the enigmatic character knew what was he was doing. Anyway, I wish the series dial down the Christian elements or dial up the other supernatural elements.
Conclusion
I rate Skin Game 3-stars for I like it. I might rate it up a star for re-readability; we'll see. I was disappointed we didn't learn more about the Outsiders and the Black Council. It made only an inch of progress in the story arc. How long is this reckoning going to be delayed? Anyway, the book was enjoyable but it could have easily been better.
January 5, 2022
Butchers description of Skin Game
"The next novel is called Skin Game. In it, we find out that Mab has various debts which she has incurred over the years and Mab is very keen on getting her debts paid, and when one of the people she owes shows up and asks for a favour, she loans him Harry Dresden in order to help him. So Harry is going to find himself, by command of Queen Mab, assisting Nicodemus Archleon in a heist. They’re going on a bank job, and they’re going to knock over the vault of Hades — the Lord of the Underworld.
Harry is going to be very far out of his element because he’s going to be working with this crew of nasties that Nicodemus has recruited and having to survive that situation, and it’s going to make him look so good to the White Council and everyone else that he’s running around with this crew."
Source: http://archeddoorway.com/2013/04/12/i...
__________________________________________________________________
Butcher reading from Skin game : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-p_CT...
"The next novel is called Skin Game. In it, we find out that Mab has various debts which she has incurred over the years and Mab is very keen on getting her debts paid, and when one of the people she owes shows up and asks for a favour, she loans him Harry Dresden in order to help him. So Harry is going to find himself, by command of Queen Mab, assisting Nicodemus Archleon in a heist. They’re going on a bank job, and they’re going to knock over the vault of Hades — the Lord of the Underworld.
Harry is going to be very far out of his element because he’s going to be working with this crew of nasties that Nicodemus has recruited and having to survive that situation, and it’s going to make him look so good to the White Council and everyone else that he’s running around with this crew."
Source: http://archeddoorway.com/2013/04/12/i...
__________________________________________________________________
Butcher reading from Skin game : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-p_CT...
July 14, 2020
Parcour! If anyone was new to urban fantasy this is the first series I’d recommend. It was what I started with myself. As many before me have said, this series just gets better and better. I know that many didn’t like books 13 and 14 as much, but I’ve loved them all!
One of the things I love is the payoff from previous books. Character development over the series is phenomenal, not only for Harry Dresden, but all the rest of the cast too. With each book, more of the back story is threaded in. There are no wasted pages and no down time with any of the books, and particularly not in this book. It’s great to see Michael et al back in play and Butters too.
Some fantasy fans don’t really like urban fantasy, but I’d say that if you’re ever going to like an urban fantasy, this is the one! I have slowly over a couple of years worked my way through the series. Too much happens in each one to want to rush through the whole lot too quickly. And boy Am I glad I paced myself because it’s only now that I have to join the queue of Harry Dresden fans waiting impatiently for the next book.
And the audio is excellent. It’s only the last couple of books I’ve picked up on audio, so now at least I can treat myself to the whole series again in audio.
In case you haven’t guessed..Recommended.
One of the things I love is the payoff from previous books. Character development over the series is phenomenal, not only for Harry Dresden, but all the rest of the cast too. With each book, more of the back story is threaded in. There are no wasted pages and no down time with any of the books, and particularly not in this book. It’s great to see Michael et al back in play and Butters too.
Some fantasy fans don’t really like urban fantasy, but I’d say that if you’re ever going to like an urban fantasy, this is the one! I have slowly over a couple of years worked my way through the series. Too much happens in each one to want to rush through the whole lot too quickly. And boy Am I glad I paced myself because it’s only now that I have to join the queue of Harry Dresden fans waiting impatiently for the next book.
And the audio is excellent. It’s only the last couple of books I’ve picked up on audio, so now at least I can treat myself to the whole series again in audio.
In case you haven’t guessed..Recommended.
January 25, 2019
Harry Dresden, wizard-for-hire and Winter Knight, joins a group of unsavory characters to pay off a debt owed by Mab and to steal something incredibly valuable from a god. And he thought he had bad days before this. At least he still has a way with words.
"... Nicodemus is a murderous murdering murderer," I said. "And if he's picking a crew, they're going to be just as bad." pg 26, ebook
Is there anyone he can trust? Can he even trust himself with the strange "parasite"-thing growing in his head?
"Sometimes when you find yourself alone, for whatever reason, you review every little thing you know about someone, searching your memory for small, subtle things that you may have missed about them." pg 10, ebook.
Any guesses on what they're going to be stealing?
"My sources say he's the collector of the supernatural world. He's famous for it. Art, treasure, gems, jewels, antiques, you name." pg 37, ebook.
Skin Game is a clever mix of heist and The Dresden Files. I thoroughly enjoyed it. And now my heart is broken because the next book isn't written yet.
We were finally getting somewhere with Harry's relationships with his friends and a certain someone in particular. (No spoilers!) Harry was learning how to juggle his "mantle of power". Molly was coming into her own unique situation.
We've learned about angels, demons, fairies, pixies, gods and more in this series. I've really come to enjoy the world and the strange things that happen in it. I love the shifting balance of power and how when Harry's up, he's really up. And when he's down... well...
"And since when had I become the guy that things happened to ten years ago?" pg 49, ebook.
I think all of the readers are wondering that too. Not that we're complaining because this series seems to have such staying power. I really wish it would keep going for awhile longer, just spit-balling here, how about another 15 books? :) Or, at least, perhaps we could tie up the loose ends.
"I know that things happen to people," he said. "And maybe you've got excellent and real reasons for doing what you've done. But... at the end of the day, there's just no replacement for being here." pg 84, ebook.
I like being in this world and I think plenty of other readers do too. Jim Butcher, give the people what they want. Write, please. Write now!
"... Nicodemus is a murderous murdering murderer," I said. "And if he's picking a crew, they're going to be just as bad." pg 26, ebook
Is there anyone he can trust? Can he even trust himself with the strange "parasite"-thing growing in his head?
"Sometimes when you find yourself alone, for whatever reason, you review every little thing you know about someone, searching your memory for small, subtle things that you may have missed about them." pg 10, ebook.
Any guesses on what they're going to be stealing?
"My sources say he's the collector of the supernatural world. He's famous for it. Art, treasure, gems, jewels, antiques, you name." pg 37, ebook.
Skin Game is a clever mix of heist and The Dresden Files. I thoroughly enjoyed it. And now my heart is broken because the next book isn't written yet.
We were finally getting somewhere with Harry's relationships with his friends and a certain someone in particular. (No spoilers!) Harry was learning how to juggle his "mantle of power". Molly was coming into her own unique situation.
We've learned about angels, demons, fairies, pixies, gods and more in this series. I've really come to enjoy the world and the strange things that happen in it. I love the shifting balance of power and how when Harry's up, he's really up. And when he's down... well...
"And since when had I become the guy that things happened to ten years ago?" pg 49, ebook.
I think all of the readers are wondering that too. Not that we're complaining because this series seems to have such staying power. I really wish it would keep going for awhile longer, just spit-balling here, how about another 15 books? :) Or, at least, perhaps we could tie up the loose ends.
"I know that things happen to people," he said. "And maybe you've got excellent and real reasons for doing what you've done. But... at the end of the day, there's just no replacement for being here." pg 84, ebook.
I like being in this world and I think plenty of other readers do too. Jim Butcher, give the people what they want. Write, please. Write now!
Want to read
July 21, 2013 This is Harry Dresden. 
This is Harry the Bolshevik Muppet.*
*by the way, if you're not up on muppet pop culture, the Bolshevik muppet's name really is Crazy Harry. He is described on the wiki as, "An unkempt figure with wild eyes and a mad cackle, he delights in blowing things up."
Well, shoot. I dropped by to see if it came out in the next few months. It doesn't.
Despite a certain amount of ambivalence about Faustian bargains and cold days, I'm dying to read this for a rather random reason. If the books stay true to pattern, then this is a Denarian book, so hopefully one of my biggest questions since Small Favor will finally be answered: who, who picked up the Denarian coin? Seriously, it wasn't a very big helicopter. Practically a locked-room mystery.
I wonder if Charity will go after him with a frying pan, a steak knife, or a battleaxe. I vote all three.
Otherwise, I want to know:
This is Harry the Bolshevik Muppet.* Put them both in dusters and there really isn't much difference, especially now that Mab is pulling Dresden's strings. They even have the same hair.. .
*by the way, if you're not up on muppet pop culture, the Bolshevik muppet's name really is Crazy Harry. He is described on the wiki as, "An unkempt figure with wild eyes and a mad cackle, he delights in blowing things up."
Well, shoot. I dropped by to see if it came out in the next few months. It doesn't.
Despite a certain amount of ambivalence about Faustian bargains and cold days, I'm dying to read this for a rather random reason. If the books stay true to pattern, then this is a Denarian book, so hopefully one of my biggest questions since Small Favor will finally be answered: who, who picked up the Denarian coin? Seriously, it wasn't a very big helicopter. Practically a locked-room mystery.
I wonder if Charity will go after him with a frying pan, a steak knife, or a battleaxe. I vote all three.
Otherwise, I want to know:
January 21, 2024
And I have once again finished Skin Game.
This is not my favorite Dresden book, however I do think it is the most impressive Dresden books.
The only two Dresden books I prefer are these huge events that leave the characters and the world changed forever. They break the formula.
Skin Game is very much a normal Dresden book, it follows the formula. It just follows the formula better then any of the other Dresden books in my opinion.
It takes a heist, and mixes in some stellar character work and dialogue, and I do truly mean stellar. An amazing antagonist, near perfect pacing, amazing twist, turns, and reveals.
The result is 450 hardcover pages packed full of fun and emotions, with very high highs, and essentially non existent lows.
9.5/10
This is not my favorite Dresden book, however I do think it is the most impressive Dresden books.
The only two Dresden books I prefer are these huge events that leave the characters and the world changed forever. They break the formula.
Skin Game is very much a normal Dresden book, it follows the formula. It just follows the formula better then any of the other Dresden books in my opinion.
It takes a heist, and mixes in some stellar character work and dialogue, and I do truly mean stellar. An amazing antagonist, near perfect pacing, amazing twist, turns, and reveals.
The result is 450 hardcover pages packed full of fun and emotions, with very high highs, and essentially non existent lows.
9.5/10
August 17, 2023
Re-Read 8/17/23:
A pure delight to re-read. Pure, shining, light-saber-ish delight.
There is practically nothing to dislike about this novel. It's one of my favorites. Again. And that says a lot about the series as a whole. I laughed too many times to count, and the sheer weight of wholesomeness almost destroyed me.
You can't say that too often when dealing with demons and shapeshifters and mercenaries on a heist, but when you have FRIENDS, well...
Beautiful.
Original Review:
I'm a bona-fide fanboy of the series and I don't care who knows it. Perhaps if more people knew, they'd give it a shot, too. I'm continually surprised by the directions it takes, and this book was no different. I loved the oceans eleven feel and the return of a slew of villains that were very memorable in their own right. The twists, including the one that was derived from the title, were satisfying but not obvious for a good long time. Other twists, such as the one that kept him tied to the island, has got me chomping at the bit for the next novel(s).
I love where all these changes are driving the story, but, this one was great for the huge amount of resurfacing characters.
I'm in awe, and this candy is so delicious. I truly can't wait for more.
Update.
This is a contender for the 2015 Hugo for best novel.
Now while I am generally in awe of Mr. Butcher, there is still some controversy surrounding this year's picks. I choose to ignore the controversy and uphold the spirit with which so many people view the honor of the Hugos.
I may not like this particular novel as much as a few of the ones that have come before, such as Changes, but I do hold the novel in very high esteem. This series also falls into a grey category in my mind because while it can be read without knowing the other 14 books in the series, it probably shouldn't be. The entire series is too rich to ignore. That being said, Dresden is more like a whale than a big fish, and should be considered a class to itself.
Hugo possibility? Certainly, as long as the spirit of the award is given for the right reasons, and even if it is, we might need a new category such as Lifetime Achievement, or HUGE ASS STORY ARC category. Then we could backvote WOT in as well.
Brad K Horner's blog
A pure delight to re-read. Pure, shining, light-saber-ish delight.
There is practically nothing to dislike about this novel. It's one of my favorites. Again. And that says a lot about the series as a whole. I laughed too many times to count, and the sheer weight of wholesomeness almost destroyed me.
You can't say that too often when dealing with demons and shapeshifters and mercenaries on a heist, but when you have FRIENDS, well...
Beautiful.
Original Review:
I'm a bona-fide fanboy of the series and I don't care who knows it. Perhaps if more people knew, they'd give it a shot, too. I'm continually surprised by the directions it takes, and this book was no different. I loved the oceans eleven feel and the return of a slew of villains that were very memorable in their own right. The twists, including the one that was derived from the title, were satisfying but not obvious for a good long time. Other twists, such as the one that kept him tied to the island, has got me chomping at the bit for the next novel(s).
I love where all these changes are driving the story, but, this one was great for the huge amount of resurfacing characters.
I'm in awe, and this candy is so delicious. I truly can't wait for more.
Update.
This is a contender for the 2015 Hugo for best novel.
Now while I am generally in awe of Mr. Butcher, there is still some controversy surrounding this year's picks. I choose to ignore the controversy and uphold the spirit with which so many people view the honor of the Hugos.
I may not like this particular novel as much as a few of the ones that have come before, such as Changes, but I do hold the novel in very high esteem. This series also falls into a grey category in my mind because while it can be read without knowing the other 14 books in the series, it probably shouldn't be. The entire series is too rich to ignore. That being said, Dresden is more like a whale than a big fish, and should be considered a class to itself.
Hugo possibility? Certainly, as long as the spirit of the award is given for the right reasons, and even if it is, we might need a new category such as Lifetime Achievement, or HUGE ASS STORY ARC category. Then we could backvote WOT in as well.
Brad K Horner's blog
September 1, 2016
*4.5 stars*
Though this wasn't my favorite Harry Dresden book, it was still amazing. Part of that is because the audio of this book is so good I could cry. The audio of this series, especially the later books, is simply the gold standard of what an audiobook can be. The audio for this book was astonishingly good, and I think even if the book was terrible, I could never do anything but love it.
The story was exciting, Harry was impressive, and the audio was divine. Now I just have to suffer and wait for the next book to come out.
August 25, 2021
Do these ratings surprise anybody anymore at this point? These books are fucking awesome. This series started out as a villain of the week crime series and has evolved so much since then. I've loved it since Storm Front but basically everything post-Blood Rites is just on a totally different level. Power levels keep going up, more characters are involved in the story than they ever have been before, Harry has been through countless traumatic events, the list of everything that this series gets right is a long one.
June 25, 2020
Again, Butcher blows me away with his ability to craft an amazing story that ends in one book but pushes forward a much larger story arc. Loving these books!
Sad now that I'm caught up and have to wait for more. At least I can always reread.
Sad now that I'm caught up and have to wait for more. At least I can always reread.
August 6, 2022
“There’s power in the touch of another person’s hand. We acknowledge it in little ways, all the time. There’s a reason human beings shake hands, hold hands, slap hands, bump hands.
“It comes from our very earliest memories, when we all come into the world blinded by light and color, deafened by riotous sound, flailing in a suddenly cavernous space without any way of orienting ourselves, shuddering with cold, emptied with hunger, and justifiably frightened and confused. And what changes that first horror, that original state of terror?
“The touch of another person’s hands.
“Hands that wrap us in warmth, that hold us close. Hands that guide us to shelter, to comfort, to food. Hands that hold and touch and reassure us through our very first crisis, and guide us into our very first shelter from pain. The first thing we ever learn is that the touch of someone else’s hand can ease pain and make things better.
“That’s power. That’s power so fundamental that most people never even realize it exists.”
15 books in and what do I say? Well, the first thing is that Skin Game is a beautiful and poignant novel. It's just brilliant. It doesn’t have the depth nor tackles the heavy themes as Ghost Story and it's not as impactful to the series as Changes, but it's special. This is easily the most fun I’ve had reading a Dresden Files novel, however, do I think it’s the best? Nope, but it's just a masterfully crafted piece of art. Sure, the plot isn’t as ambitious as Cold Days and the overall scope isn’t that large in the grand scheme of events, but the execution of the plot is just brilliant. Yes, this is just a heist, just handled with so much care and love. Once again, Butcher's dialogue has just gone progressively better as my previous reviews have indicated as such. Here Butcher stepped up his monologue game and it's fantastic. The quote above is a good example, when it appears in the text, it just hits you at the core. There isn’t that much philosophising but because it's dealing with Michael and his family the theme of faith once again is explored tastefully. Moving on to my thoughts on the monologues, you can’t help but be engrossed, sometimes makes you ponder and at times just cheer. One of the biggest strengths of the novel is tone, the balance of humour and emotions is handled so precisely, he doesn’t undermine the serious ramifications of actions with a joke, but he is also self-aware when some aspects can be a bit goofy. An example the Marvel Cinematic Universe often undermines its character, plot, emotion and stakes for quips & jokes. Whereas Butcher is often more deliberate, he uses humour and those moments of levity as a great contrast to those serious moments. At times enhancing the serious scenes in the process.
An advantage of this novel compared to the rest is the antagonist. Nick is just amazing and is so interesting. Dresden's main antagonist of a given novel (not side) is usually a one note, but Nick is just built differently. I’ve already talked about him in my Small Favor review so it's that but him with even more layers, so it makes his dynamic with Dresden so engaging. I do like that hint of vulnerability from their last encounter and makes him feel even more of a threat. Because if you make him tick, shit will go loose. Anyways both the main antagonist and side antagonist are fascinating so it's interesting to observe. I don’t think this needs to be stated but the pacing was incredible, with no dull chapters throughout. At times I would zone out in certain action sequences which is more natural for me in this medium.
Spoiler thoughts:
Conclusion:
In Conclusion, this series is simply brilliant, especially from Changes onwards. I love how the consequences of Changes-Ghost Story are very much felt here and recontextualise the prior novels in great ways. I don’t have anything more to say beyond I’m excited to continue.
9/10
September 29, 2019
By far the best of the series, this book doesn’t have a single moment that’s not totally freaking awesome.
The countdown to Peace Talks starts now...
The countdown to Peace Talks starts now...
October 21, 2022
Holy shit this book is so good.
I think I like it more overall than Changes, but Changes has a much more emotionally affecting ending, and that's what really drives it home for me. So this is slightly below Changes.
But man, Skin Game is so fun and chock full of fantastic character moments and cool, fist pumping scenes. Dresden Files is a wild, wild ride.
I think I like it more overall than Changes, but Changes has a much more emotionally affecting ending, and that's what really drives it home for me. So this is slightly below Changes.
But man, Skin Game is so fun and chock full of fantastic character moments and cool, fist pumping scenes. Dresden Files is a wild, wild ride.
July 31, 2014
it's Dresden, how can it be anything other than five stars.
just finished the book...Holly Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!
just finished the book...Holly Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 13, 2020
Giveaway of this book here.
Skin Game is really good. I mean really good. Jim Butcher gets better with every book. It had a little bit of Murphy and a little bit of Michael. This is one of the best books I have read this year. Skin Game is brilliant, it is amazing and so worth the long wait (18 months!). The main problem with reading Skin Game is the wait for the sequel (Peace Talks #16), which as of right now has an estimate of an August 2015 release. At this point, while Goodreads has August 2015 listed as the release date, late 2015 or early 2016 sounds more realistic given past release dates.
Harry Dresden returns in Skin Game. He is in the flesh, still has his silly musings but he is more confident and stronger. Skin Game brings back Michael, Molly, the Deanrians, Karen, and many others that I don't want to spoil for readers because the scene of their appearance is somewhat of a surprise. Butcher draws on Dresden's history and includes characters that mean a lot to Dresden and me as a reader. Every page was rewarding, reminiscent and new.
Not surprisingly, Skin Game involves moral questions. I say not surprisingly because readers should know that when the Denarians and Michael play a role in the book, Harry's moral compass is pushed and questioned. I love Michael and the balance he brings. But I wonder what his belief system means for the Dresden Files world? Butcher has said that the final 3 books in this series will be an apocalyptic trilogy, following 20-24 books (the number has varied). I think Michael, the angels, the swords will play a role in the end of this series. No matter what is mixed in to the Dresden files, there is good and bad fighting each other. What Butcher does so well though, is that he has plenty of gray areas and so many of his characters believe they are the moral authority but their actions are so hurtful. Murky moral areas make the best stories. But at the same time, when Michael is present I do feel some hinting at an ultimate good and powerful being by Butcher. Anyone else?
So if Michael and Karen are in the story, I know readers are wondering -- what happens with the swords? There are no spoilers in this review, but I will say the swords are back. The ultimate wielder is very unexpected (but Deathhollowish in resolution) and the result of the wieldings is surprising.
So Skin Game is number 15 in the Dresden Files. Think about that number 15. Every year to 18 months, Jim Butcher turns out a 400+ page novel on pretty much the same characters he has been writing about since 2000. Factor in that Butcher releases decent short stories every year in the Dresden world, writes a fantasy series (Codex Alera -6 books) and is starting a new series (The Cinder Spires -- August 2014) Sounds like a recipe for disaster or boredom. Except, that it isn't. Jim Butcher is somehow able to continuously write a book set in the same world, which advances the story line, progresses the characters, stays consistent with the world he constructed over a decade ago and is still brilliantly interesting. I need to say this at least once in this review: Jim Butcher you are amazing (and I think I love you?). How does an author do this? Thinking about series that have existed this length in time and in page count, there are few that maintain consistency, interest and growth.
Who would like this book? Harry Dresden fans will not be disappointed and should read this immediately. New readers who want to start the series (fans of fantasy books and urban fantasy books should read this series) should start at the beginningish, not here. Note: the television series will not prep readers for the series at all. There are very little consistent storyline cross overs. So don't skip just because you watched the mediocre one season only series. This is hard. But I will just say it and most of know it is true, books 1 and 2 are not great. I am not sure what happened, author growth? A better editor? But books 1 and 2 in the Dresden Files do not represent the series at all. There are references to the events in these books throughout the series, but they are not important to read for the story arc. I worry that when readers start 1 and 2, they may never come back. It is easy for someone to say, keep with it! It gets better! But it is harder for the reader to accept that the writing and story doesn't actually represent where the series goes. So this is what I recommend for readers who want to dive in to Harry Dresden: Start with Grave Peril #3. Books 3 and 4 represent a strong shift in how Butcher tells his stories. They stories are more complex, the overall story arc begins and there is character growth. Books 3 and 4 are decent; book 5 is where the brilliance begins and continues on for the next 10 books. Once you are hooked, you can go back and read 1 and 2; they are both shorter and quicker reads and if you are hooked, reading these won't discourage you. Or listen to 1 and 2 in audio just to get through them.
That brings me to my last point. Dresden Files make excellent re-reads. I typically re-read by listening to the audio. I love the narration; my co-blogger DG is not a fan of the audio version, but if you are tempted I say give it a try. I am guessing you will enjoy the listen.
Jim Butcher is easily in at the top of my favorite fun reading list. I plan to use this long wait for Peace Talks (Dresden Files #16) to read his Codex Alera series. What else can an addict do for comfort? (Suggestions welcome ....)
Skin Game is really good. I mean really good. Jim Butcher gets better with every book. It had a little bit of Murphy and a little bit of Michael. This is one of the best books I have read this year. Skin Game is brilliant, it is amazing and so worth the long wait (18 months!). The main problem with reading Skin Game is the wait for the sequel (Peace Talks #16), which as of right now has an estimate of an August 2015 release. At this point, while Goodreads has August 2015 listed as the release date, late 2015 or early 2016 sounds more realistic given past release dates.
Harry Dresden returns in Skin Game. He is in the flesh, still has his silly musings but he is more confident and stronger. Skin Game brings back Michael, Molly, the Deanrians, Karen, and many others that I don't want to spoil for readers because the scene of their appearance is somewhat of a surprise. Butcher draws on Dresden's history and includes characters that mean a lot to Dresden and me as a reader. Every page was rewarding, reminiscent and new.
Not surprisingly, Skin Game involves moral questions. I say not surprisingly because readers should know that when the Denarians and Michael play a role in the book, Harry's moral compass is pushed and questioned. I love Michael and the balance he brings. But I wonder what his belief system means for the Dresden Files world? Butcher has said that the final 3 books in this series will be an apocalyptic trilogy, following 20-24 books (the number has varied). I think Michael, the angels, the swords will play a role in the end of this series. No matter what is mixed in to the Dresden files, there is good and bad fighting each other. What Butcher does so well though, is that he has plenty of gray areas and so many of his characters believe they are the moral authority but their actions are so hurtful. Murky moral areas make the best stories. But at the same time, when Michael is present I do feel some hinting at an ultimate good and powerful being by Butcher. Anyone else?
So if Michael and Karen are in the story, I know readers are wondering -- what happens with the swords? There are no spoilers in this review, but I will say the swords are back. The ultimate wielder is very unexpected (but Deathhollowish in resolution) and the result of the wieldings is surprising.
So Skin Game is number 15 in the Dresden Files. Think about that number 15. Every year to 18 months, Jim Butcher turns out a 400+ page novel on pretty much the same characters he has been writing about since 2000. Factor in that Butcher releases decent short stories every year in the Dresden world, writes a fantasy series (Codex Alera -6 books) and is starting a new series (The Cinder Spires -- August 2014) Sounds like a recipe for disaster or boredom. Except, that it isn't. Jim Butcher is somehow able to continuously write a book set in the same world, which advances the story line, progresses the characters, stays consistent with the world he constructed over a decade ago and is still brilliantly interesting. I need to say this at least once in this review: Jim Butcher you are amazing (and I think I love you?). How does an author do this? Thinking about series that have existed this length in time and in page count, there are few that maintain consistency, interest and growth.
Who would like this book? Harry Dresden fans will not be disappointed and should read this immediately. New readers who want to start the series (fans of fantasy books and urban fantasy books should read this series) should start at the beginningish, not here. Note: the television series will not prep readers for the series at all. There are very little consistent storyline cross overs. So don't skip just because you watched the mediocre one season only series. This is hard. But I will just say it and most of know it is true, books 1 and 2 are not great. I am not sure what happened, author growth? A better editor? But books 1 and 2 in the Dresden Files do not represent the series at all. There are references to the events in these books throughout the series, but they are not important to read for the story arc. I worry that when readers start 1 and 2, they may never come back. It is easy for someone to say, keep with it! It gets better! But it is harder for the reader to accept that the writing and story doesn't actually represent where the series goes. So this is what I recommend for readers who want to dive in to Harry Dresden: Start with Grave Peril #3. Books 3 and 4 represent a strong shift in how Butcher tells his stories. They stories are more complex, the overall story arc begins and there is character growth. Books 3 and 4 are decent; book 5 is where the brilliance begins and continues on for the next 10 books. Once you are hooked, you can go back and read 1 and 2; they are both shorter and quicker reads and if you are hooked, reading these won't discourage you. Or listen to 1 and 2 in audio just to get through them.
That brings me to my last point. Dresden Files make excellent re-reads. I typically re-read by listening to the audio. I love the narration; my co-blogger DG is not a fan of the audio version, but if you are tempted I say give it a try. I am guessing you will enjoy the listen.
Jim Butcher is easily in at the top of my favorite fun reading list. I plan to use this long wait for Peace Talks (Dresden Files #16) to read his Codex Alera series. What else can an addict do for comfort? (Suggestions welcome ....)
October 13, 2021
Hey, I have a new booktube (youtube for book reviews) channel and mentioned the Dresden Files in my Top 10 Spooky Reads Not Stephen King here. I hope you enjoy! Please subscribe if you do, thanks!
I don't even know what to say at this point, but this was even better than the last. Which is pretty much what I've said for the last 8 books or so (though I did struggle a bit with Ghost Story).
Harry went from fun, pop, episodic books and easily forgettable, to an ongoing epic that keeps building and building and getting better and better. I can't recommend this enough.
I was glued to this audiobook pretty much from the first moment and I don't even have to say how good Marsters is. He's just so good.
Bring on the Peace Talks!
5 out of 5 Stars (Oh so highly recommended)
I don't even know what to say at this point, but this was even better than the last. Which is pretty much what I've said for the last 8 books or so (though I did struggle a bit with Ghost Story).
Harry went from fun, pop, episodic books and easily forgettable, to an ongoing epic that keeps building and building and getting better and better. I can't recommend this enough.
I was glued to this audiobook pretty much from the first moment and I don't even have to say how good Marsters is. He's just so good.
Bring on the Peace Talks!
5 out of 5 Stars (Oh so highly recommended)
October 12, 2015
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.blogspot.com/201...
Let’s face it, there’s really no such thing as a bad Dresden Files book – but some are better than others. For me, this series reached its peak round book 5 or 6. I loved Death Masks and Blood Rites, and though everything since has been very enjoyable, there are still times I get nostalgic for the days where Harry’s life was a lot simpler. Well, relatively simpler. The point is, each installment has added another layer of complexity and drama, until each book became a tangle of White Council politics, vampire mischief and Fae court shenanigans, and basically if you haven’t been following the series you wouldn’t have a snowflake’s chance in hell of figuring out what’s going on if you’d only jumped on board at this point.
I understand it had to happen. Change is a good thing, especially when it comes to a long running urban fantasy series, otherwise things would get old quick. But gone are the days when we used to get fun things like cases that send Harry to a horror film festival, or like, to the set of a porno flick. After about ten books, the inevitable bloat happened. The series was in need of a reset button, or at least a way to start tying things together.
For me, Changes was that reset button. And Ghost Story and Cold Days did the tying up. These books marked an important transition for the series, one that I felt was needed and that this handful of novels achieved quite well. However, it wasn’t until Skin Game that I felt that we were finally taking the first real step in this new direction. I have not enjoyed a Dresden Files book this much in a while, and I’m convinced now that the series has regained its feet at last. Sure, we still have the White Council politics, vampire mischief, Fae Court shenanigans, and what have you, but once more we’re back to having a very tightly focused story around a single EPIC situation – it’s heist time, baby!
Ever since he took on the mantle of the Winter Knight, Harry’s life has taken some pretty dark turns. Mab still has him bent over a barrel, but that hasn’t stopped him from fighting back, looking for ways to push the limits of her authority. So when the Queen of the Winter court orders him to aid the big bad Nicodemus and his gang of fallen angels, Harry finds himself in quite a jam. The Denarians want to break into Hades’ vault and steal the Holy Grail, and Harry’s service to Mab requires him to help, but who’s to say Nicodemus will honor his bargain and keep from killing them all after the job is done? And that’s assuming the job CAN be done.
Ah, I love heist stories. It’s a bit of a niche topic in fantasy, but it gets me excited every time. And everyone knows that a good heist story needs a posse, so of course we have a wonderful cast of characters with us on this particular adventure. Some old friends come along for the ride, as well as a few new faces. Among this team of talented individuals, we have the thief Anna Valmont, the rogue warlock Hannah Ascher, the wizard mercenary Binder, a shapeshifter named Goodman Grey, and even a forest creature called a Genoskwa. And of course, Harry, Karrin Murphy, and Michael Carpenter. They are led by the nefarious Nicodemus and his daughter Deirdre. As a result, we have a good mixture of humor and easygoing camaraderie with savage, violent action. Whenever the Denarians get involved, you also know we’ll get our fair share of treachery, deceit, and unexpected twists and turns.
The other great thing about this series is the continued development of Harry’s character. He’s a far cry from the simple wizard he used to be; along with this series, his role has ballooned into epic proportions, albeit he is still very humble and self-deprecating about it. For this reason, I loved a couple of the conversations he has with Michael in this novel. For all his denials, we know Harry is special, but he’s been beating himself up over the last fifteen books and it’s time someone really put it into perspective. Jim Butcher really does a stellar job with these heart-to-heart talks.
Also, completely unrelated but just have to say this – boy, can the man can write one HELL of a sex scene. In the end, the circumstances aren’t really what you think and Harry might have to wait a little longer in the love department, but still. Wowzas.
This book was just pure fun, harkening back to the days when I could enjoy a good Harry story without having it spin out of control into half a dozen different directions. For the first time in years, I finished a Dresden Files book without feeling mentally exhausted. Finally, the next stage for this series has become fully realized right here in Skin Game, I’m hoping the trend will continue into the next book Peace Talks and beyond.
Let’s face it, there’s really no such thing as a bad Dresden Files book – but some are better than others. For me, this series reached its peak round book 5 or 6. I loved Death Masks and Blood Rites, and though everything since has been very enjoyable, there are still times I get nostalgic for the days where Harry’s life was a lot simpler. Well, relatively simpler. The point is, each installment has added another layer of complexity and drama, until each book became a tangle of White Council politics, vampire mischief and Fae court shenanigans, and basically if you haven’t been following the series you wouldn’t have a snowflake’s chance in hell of figuring out what’s going on if you’d only jumped on board at this point.
I understand it had to happen. Change is a good thing, especially when it comes to a long running urban fantasy series, otherwise things would get old quick. But gone are the days when we used to get fun things like cases that send Harry to a horror film festival, or like, to the set of a porno flick. After about ten books, the inevitable bloat happened. The series was in need of a reset button, or at least a way to start tying things together.
For me, Changes was that reset button. And Ghost Story and Cold Days did the tying up. These books marked an important transition for the series, one that I felt was needed and that this handful of novels achieved quite well. However, it wasn’t until Skin Game that I felt that we were finally taking the first real step in this new direction. I have not enjoyed a Dresden Files book this much in a while, and I’m convinced now that the series has regained its feet at last. Sure, we still have the White Council politics, vampire mischief, Fae Court shenanigans, and what have you, but once more we’re back to having a very tightly focused story around a single EPIC situation – it’s heist time, baby!
Ever since he took on the mantle of the Winter Knight, Harry’s life has taken some pretty dark turns. Mab still has him bent over a barrel, but that hasn’t stopped him from fighting back, looking for ways to push the limits of her authority. So when the Queen of the Winter court orders him to aid the big bad Nicodemus and his gang of fallen angels, Harry finds himself in quite a jam. The Denarians want to break into Hades’ vault and steal the Holy Grail, and Harry’s service to Mab requires him to help, but who’s to say Nicodemus will honor his bargain and keep from killing them all after the job is done? And that’s assuming the job CAN be done.
Ah, I love heist stories. It’s a bit of a niche topic in fantasy, but it gets me excited every time. And everyone knows that a good heist story needs a posse, so of course we have a wonderful cast of characters with us on this particular adventure. Some old friends come along for the ride, as well as a few new faces. Among this team of talented individuals, we have the thief Anna Valmont, the rogue warlock Hannah Ascher, the wizard mercenary Binder, a shapeshifter named Goodman Grey, and even a forest creature called a Genoskwa. And of course, Harry, Karrin Murphy, and Michael Carpenter. They are led by the nefarious Nicodemus and his daughter Deirdre. As a result, we have a good mixture of humor and easygoing camaraderie with savage, violent action. Whenever the Denarians get involved, you also know we’ll get our fair share of treachery, deceit, and unexpected twists and turns.
The other great thing about this series is the continued development of Harry’s character. He’s a far cry from the simple wizard he used to be; along with this series, his role has ballooned into epic proportions, albeit he is still very humble and self-deprecating about it. For this reason, I loved a couple of the conversations he has with Michael in this novel. For all his denials, we know Harry is special, but he’s been beating himself up over the last fifteen books and it’s time someone really put it into perspective. Jim Butcher really does a stellar job with these heart-to-heart talks.
Also, completely unrelated but just have to say this – boy, can the man can write one HELL of a sex scene. In the end, the circumstances aren’t really what you think and Harry might have to wait a little longer in the love department, but still. Wowzas.
This book was just pure fun, harkening back to the days when I could enjoy a good Harry story without having it spin out of control into half a dozen different directions. For the first time in years, I finished a Dresden Files book without feeling mentally exhausted. Finally, the next stage for this series has become fully realized right here in Skin Game, I’m hoping the trend will continue into the next book Peace Talks and beyond.
May 1, 2022
Definitely one of the best books in the series to date. A totally absorbing, fast paced plot from start to finish. Harry is coerced by his boss, Mab, Queen of Air and Darkness, into helping one of his arch enemies carry out a heist in the underworld. He is not at all happy about it but understands that Mab has a secondary role for him, if only he survive to carry it out. Also he has this thing in his head that’s going to kill him in three days time so he is also racing the clock.
There are some scary members of the team involved in the heist who would like nothing better than to kill Harry once his role is complete and he will need to call on more than one of his human friends to help him get out alive. There are so many times in the plot when there seems to be no way out but Butcher keeps pulling fresh ideas out of his hat to allow Harry to carry on. Non stop drama and an excellent ending!
There are some scary members of the team involved in the heist who would like nothing better than to kill Harry once his role is complete and he will need to call on more than one of his human friends to help him get out alive. There are so many times in the plot when there seems to be no way out but Butcher keeps pulling fresh ideas out of his hat to allow Harry to carry on. Non stop drama and an excellent ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,538 reviews