Small Favor

Small Favor (2008) Jim Butcher

Nothing is ever easy for Harry Dresden. Just when it looks as if things have calmed down a bit, the Summer Court and the Winter Court both seem to want a piece of Harry (although not the same piece) and then the Denarians decide to mix things up as well.

It’s been fun watching Harry grow up and start to act like an adult. That doesn’t mean he still doesn’t do stupid things, but he has people he cares about who’s interests he tries to protect–and the knowledge that some of those people care about him in return–and it seems to keep him from haring off and doing really stupid things–or doing things without thought of the consequences. But in Small Favor there are a lot of people around whom he is trying to protect, and it looks like once again Harry learns that he can’t protect everyone, no matter how had he tries.

I enjoyed Small Favor. It was a fun, fast-paced read, and thoroughly enjoyable. We also got to spend at least a little time with many of Harry’s friends. It must be getting harder and harder for Jim Butcher to work in everyone without annoying fans who always want, “more Murphy!” or whomever it is they specifically like. (Me, I always want to read more about Bob the Skull.)

Another thing I’m liking and the series is how Harry’s priorities have shifted, and he’s starting to look more and more at the big picture. That doesn’t mean his gotten big on planning or anything, or has taken up listening to authority, but he is starting to see how his actions are affecting the world at large, especially as he grows more powerful.

Plus, we’re still seeing the repercussion of his time spent with Lasciel. I really like the fact that has echoed over multiple books, and Harry is getting better and better about dealing with the situation as a grownup.

I wouldn’t say this is my all time favorite Dresden book, but it was good and enjoyable and I definitely recommend it.
Rating: 7/10

• Browse the archives:
  
• The Devil’s Right Hand » »
• « « Vanish