Saturday, March 31, 2012

Review: Changes by Jim Butcher


Years ago Harry's lover Susan was taken by the red court, who attempted to turn her. Harry saved her before the process could be complete but for both their sakes Susan disappeared to South America where you could fight her curse and those responsible. Harry lost more than he realized that day. Susan was pregnant and has kept their daughter hidden for years. Now Arianna Ortega, Duchess of the Red court, has kidnapped the child planning on using her against Harry. Harry grew up as an orphan and there is no power on earth that will prevent him from protecting his child.

I answered the phone, and Susan Rodriguez said, "They've taken our daughter." I can't recall coming across a more powerful opening sentence to a novel. The implications are obvious to anyone, even someone not familiar with the Dresden files and you know you’re in for a rollercoaster of a ride.

The focus is strongly on Harry's character throughout this novel. With the novel's being told from Harry's perspective he has always come across as a "white" character. He knows the difference between right and wrong and this seldom causes any conflict for him. So in earlier books when he has been offered power from dubious sources I never felt there was a chance he would take it. Until now. This conflict within Harry certainly kept me interested.

Overall Butcher yet again raises his game. 8.5/10.

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