Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror Reviews

Book Review: Side Jobs

By Sandy Amazeen Oct 11, 2010, 1:20 GMT

Fans of The Dresden Files will rejoice in this first ever complete collection of Harry Dresden short stories, even better, some have never appeared in print before. Opening with the very first Harry Dresden story and Butcher’s first venture in writing short fiction, “A Restoration of Faith” is a charming albeit rough tale written as a class assignment. “Aftermath” is another brand new story that picks up within hours from Changes. In a departure from the usual Dresden fare, this is told from the perspective of Sergeant Murphy who is quite naturally, having difficulty dealing with the likely death of her old friend Harry. While investigating what happened to a pregnant werewolf, Murphy quickly finds herself immersed in powerful magic that could determine Chicago’s future.

In addition to the new material, there are all the previously published short stories including “It’s My Birthday Too”, “Love Hurts” and “Backup”. Each story is placed in chronological order within the Dresden File series and several include a nice introduction. Whether you are a longtime fan or just curious what all the fuss is about, run, don’t walk to your nearest bookstore and savor.