That's What I'm Talking About

This time around, Dresden is pulled into another police investigation that appears to have a supernatural twist. Police Lt. Karin Murphy, still having a bit a trouble trusting Dresden after some issues last spring (previous book), reluctantly brings in Dresden when it looks like there may be one or more werewolves killing people in and around Chicago. 

Overall, I enjoyed the murder mystery at the heart of Fool Moon, but I felt it wasn’t as gripping as the first book, Storm Front.  However, I enjoyed learning more about Dresden, Murphy, and Harry’s love interest, Susan. We get glimpses of a younger Dresden and learn more about what put him at odds with the White Council, as well as an apparent betrayal of epic proportions. Listeners are lead to believe that Dresden’s family has many hidden and potentially disastrous secrets, something I’m certain will surface in subsequent titles. I’m intrigued to say the least.  

Dresden and Murphy’s relationship took a beating this time around. It pained me to see how little Murphy trusts Dresden. Once again, his internal battles over how much to trust and share with others created an interesting and likable character, about whom I want to know more and more. Similarly, Dresden and Susan looked a little deeper at their connection, and I was happy to see her take a larger, more meaningful role in the adventure.

While I found the story of werewolf murders interesting and engaging, especially with the involvement of gangster Johnny Marcone, I had some issues with the overall breadth of the mythology and plot. I felt that the mystery got bogged down by too many players and offshooting factors. Additionally, the climatic confrontation scene went on WAY TOO LONG. Seriously long. Like over an hour plus long. It started to bore me after a while. I also felt that Dresden was in certain peril too often throughout the entire book. He endured way too much torture and pain, and although he’s a wizard, he’s still human and there is no way that someone could make it through everything that he made it through. It was just over-the-top, and too much, and I can only take so many near-death experiences.

Certainly, the absolute BEST part of the entire book is the narration by James Marsters. His voice is rich and relaxing, yet kept me on edge during the most dire of times. I mentioned to someone recently at how he seems to BE Dresden rather than reading a book, and she suggested that maybe Mr. Marsters acting background is the reason. Whatever it is, I enjoy the nuances of expression Mr. Marsters is able to convey through his performance.

Overall an entertaining addition to the Dresden Files, and I look forward to listening to more.

My Rating: B

Narration: A+