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The Dresden Files #18.75
Out Law
Not yet published
Expected 5 May 26The past comes back in a big way for Chicago’s only professional wizard in this action-packed novella from the #1 New York Times–bestselling Dresden Files.
In a city that’s just beginning to recover from the devastation caused by the Battle of Chicago, Harry Dresden is finally pulling himself together as well. He’s ensconced in his own personal castle, healing his various wounds, and training an eager new apprentice. The last thing he wants is any trouble. But, as history has consistently—and quite annoyingly—shown, what Harry wants is rarely what Harry gets.
It starts with a visit from Harry’s most powerful frenemy, Gentleman John Marcone, Baron of Chicago. He needs Harry to assist in the redemption of an underling who’s looking to go straight. And since Harry does kinda sorta owe Marcone for saving his life once (stupid honorable debt!), it’s not a request he can refuse. He’ll just wish he had.
Because this little favor is going to drag Harry into a fight he doesn’t want on behalf of a lowlife he doesn’t trust against an enemy more powerful and pestilent than he ever could’ve an insatiable, demonic foe whom Harry himself may have created when he wiped out the vampires of the Red Court so long ago.
Before, all it wanted was blood. Now it wants the entire world . . .
“A great series—fast-paced, vividly realized and with a hero/narrator who’s excellent company.” —Cinescape
In a city that’s just beginning to recover from the devastation caused by the Battle of Chicago, Harry Dresden is finally pulling himself together as well. He’s ensconced in his own personal castle, healing his various wounds, and training an eager new apprentice. The last thing he wants is any trouble. But, as history has consistently—and quite annoyingly—shown, what Harry wants is rarely what Harry gets.
It starts with a visit from Harry’s most powerful frenemy, Gentleman John Marcone, Baron of Chicago. He needs Harry to assist in the redemption of an underling who’s looking to go straight. And since Harry does kinda sorta owe Marcone for saving his life once (stupid honorable debt!), it’s not a request he can refuse. He’ll just wish he had.
Because this little favor is going to drag Harry into a fight he doesn’t want on behalf of a lowlife he doesn’t trust against an enemy more powerful and pestilent than he ever could’ve an insatiable, demonic foe whom Harry himself may have created when he wiped out the vampires of the Red Court so long ago.
Before, all it wanted was blood. Now it wants the entire world . . .
“A great series—fast-paced, vividly realized and with a hero/narrator who’s excellent company.” —Cinescape
208 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 12, 2026
About the author
Jim Butcher
200 books51.7k 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 8, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
You could read this on its own but it works so much better if you’ve read The Law first! Between the two novellas & 12 Months, it’s like Jim has released 2 full length Dresden books this year!!!! Im thrilled! Also it’s never enough, more Dresden & Bob!!!
This would have been 5⭐️ but the tone shift between 12 Months & The Law/The Outlaw was pretty abrupt. Aside from that, I loved it!
The Law felt simplistic but like typical Dresden. The Outlaw enriched the story & made it more complicated. Our villain from The Law is undergoing a journey of moral growth and Dresden is a more morally grey after the event of books 17/18. I appreciated the theme of working to change your character. That morality is a muscle you exercise and train each day.
The Outlaw does an excellent job of showing the older, more complex and tired Harry in action. Basically all of 12 Months tells us Harry feels this way but here it’s shown through his actions. I really wish 12 moths had a heavy dose of that in it.
I’m left curious & hopeful about what Mirror Mirror has in store for us. I am begging the universe that it doesn’t take 5 years for it to come 😭
You could read this on its own but it works so much better if you’ve read The Law first! Between the two novellas & 12 Months, it’s like Jim has released 2 full length Dresden books this year!!!! Im thrilled! Also it’s never enough, more Dresden & Bob!!!
This would have been 5⭐️ but the tone shift between 12 Months & The Law/The Outlaw was pretty abrupt. Aside from that, I loved it!
The Law felt simplistic but like typical Dresden. The Outlaw enriched the story & made it more complicated. Our villain from The Law is undergoing a journey of moral growth and Dresden is a more morally grey after the event of books 17/18. I appreciated the theme of working to change your character. That morality is a muscle you exercise and train each day.
The Outlaw does an excellent job of showing the older, more complex and tired Harry in action. Basically all of 12 Months tells us Harry feels this way but here it’s shown through his actions. I really wish 12 moths had a heavy dose of that in it.
I’m left curious & hopeful about what Mirror Mirror has in store for us. I am begging the universe that it doesn’t take 5 years for it to come 😭
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It's been a while since Jim Butcher's last book - he's had some personal stuff to deal with, I understand - and honestly, this one refers back to some people and events that I don't remember well or, in some cases, at all, including one of the central characters. This is a lowlife associated with Gentleman Johnnie Marcone, who, thanks to a narrow escape from death, wants to reform, and Marcone, claiming that Dresden owes him a debt for saving his life, brings the guy to Dresden to be taught Decent Human Being 101. Of course, Marcone also has an angle that benefits him.
If anyone is qualified to be Professor of Being a Decent Human Being Under Difficult Circumstances and Making the Hard Choices, it's Harry Dresden, and he does a good job, imparting the wisdom he's picked up throughout his tough life. Sample dialog:
"But what do you get out of it?"
"I get to be me. I get to be the guy who helps people who need it."
(Note: I had a pre-publication version from Netgalley, and there may be changes made before publication. There are a few minor copy editing errors, for example, which I hope will be corrected, but very few.)
It's not just an extended preachment, of course. It's a Harry Dresden story, which means dire supernatural threats, action sequences that mean something, and difficult problems cleverly solved using Dresden's now extensive resources when his default initial approach of "kill it with fire" turns out not to be effective. It's wryly funny, with great banter, the fights feel like Harry and his allies are barely escaping death (and not without injury), and for all Harry's wisecracking he's deadly serious when the situation calls for it. He's even learned when not to run his mouth. And the issues include legal trouble and the IRS, not just the supernatural, so there's a variety of threats to deal with in different ways.
Solidly written, and with that extra layer of reflection on the human condition that raises it into the Gold tier of my Best of the Year list, this is Jim Butcher fully on form and in firm command of his craft.
If anyone is qualified to be Professor of Being a Decent Human Being Under Difficult Circumstances and Making the Hard Choices, it's Harry Dresden, and he does a good job, imparting the wisdom he's picked up throughout his tough life. Sample dialog:
"But what do you get out of it?"
"I get to be me. I get to be the guy who helps people who need it."
(Note: I had a pre-publication version from Netgalley, and there may be changes made before publication. There are a few minor copy editing errors, for example, which I hope will be corrected, but very few.)
It's not just an extended preachment, of course. It's a Harry Dresden story, which means dire supernatural threats, action sequences that mean something, and difficult problems cleverly solved using Dresden's now extensive resources when his default initial approach of "kill it with fire" turns out not to be effective. It's wryly funny, with great banter, the fights feel like Harry and his allies are barely escaping death (and not without injury), and for all Harry's wisecracking he's deadly serious when the situation calls for it. He's even learned when not to run his mouth. And the issues include legal trouble and the IRS, not just the supernatural, so there's a variety of threats to deal with in different ways.
Solidly written, and with that extra layer of reflection on the human condition that raises it into the Gold tier of my Best of the Year list, this is Jim Butcher fully on form and in firm command of his craft.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is technically a 4.5☆ for me. I love the idea of Dresden being tasked with helping a bad guy go good but some of the events were more silly than I was hoping for. But once again the author's writing style is truly one of my top favorites! 💕
🌟Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!🌟
🌟Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!🌟
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jumping back into the Dresden Files with Out Law honestly felt like coming home. This has been my favorite series since I first discovered it in 2009, and it feels like we barely skipped a beat since the Battle of Chicago. Harry is trying to heal, settle into his new castle, and maybe enjoy a little peace, which of course means chaos shows up almost immediately. Between the usual supernatural threats to Chicago and the world, it is somehow still the IRS that manages to feel the most terrifying. Some things never change.
Harry Dresden remains one of my all time favorite characters. He is worn down, stubborn, and still committed to doing the right thing, regardless of the costs to himself. His dynamic with Gentleman John Marcone is still a highlight, and their uneasy frenemy relationship adds a lot of tension and depth here. I also loved the underling redemption angle in this novella as a familiar face makes their return. Watching Harry help someone who is genuinely trying to be better raised some great questions about what redemption actually looks like, especially in a world like this. The addition of a new apprentice was also a fun touch and a reminder of how much Harry has grown over the years.
The pacing works perfectly for this novella. Things move quickly without ever feeling rushed, and there is always something pushing the story forward. The stakes rise steadily, keeping the tension high, while still leaving room for quieter character moments that land just as well. If anything, it just made me want more time with these characters.
The worldbuilding is lighter than in the main novels, but still strong. You can feel the weight of the Battle of Chicago and the shadow of Harry’s past choices. The threat here ties neatly into the wider mythology and reinforces that nothing Harry does ever stays in the past.
Overall, Out Law was a really satisfying return to a world and characters I love. It delivers action, humor, and heart, with a redemption focused story that fits perfectly into the Dresden Files. This novella is a reminder of why this series continues to hold such a special place for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Publishing for the opportunity to get back to my favorite book world.
Harry Dresden remains one of my all time favorite characters. He is worn down, stubborn, and still committed to doing the right thing, regardless of the costs to himself. His dynamic with Gentleman John Marcone is still a highlight, and their uneasy frenemy relationship adds a lot of tension and depth here. I also loved the underling redemption angle in this novella as a familiar face makes their return. Watching Harry help someone who is genuinely trying to be better raised some great questions about what redemption actually looks like, especially in a world like this. The addition of a new apprentice was also a fun touch and a reminder of how much Harry has grown over the years.
The pacing works perfectly for this novella. Things move quickly without ever feeling rushed, and there is always something pushing the story forward. The stakes rise steadily, keeping the tension high, while still leaving room for quieter character moments that land just as well. If anything, it just made me want more time with these characters.
The worldbuilding is lighter than in the main novels, but still strong. You can feel the weight of the Battle of Chicago and the shadow of Harry’s past choices. The threat here ties neatly into the wider mythology and reinforces that nothing Harry does ever stays in the past.
Overall, Out Law was a really satisfying return to a world and characters I love. It delivers action, humor, and heart, with a redemption focused story that fits perfectly into the Dresden Files. This novella is a reminder of why this series continues to hold such a special place for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Publishing for the opportunity to get back to my favorite book world.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Publishing for providing me with an ARC.
I love Jim Butcher. I love The Dresden Files. Once again Harry Dresden has had an insane adventure and made the world a little bit lighter by the end of it. With how heavy the main books have been getting its nice to have a good novella to take a step away from it. Jim Butcher delivers yet again and I am so very keen for the next book!
I love Jim Butcher. I love The Dresden Files. Once again Harry Dresden has had an insane adventure and made the world a little bit lighter by the end of it. With how heavy the main books have been getting its nice to have a good novella to take a step away from it. Jim Butcher delivers yet again and I am so very keen for the next book!
Read
December 19, 2025Perfectly fun Dresden Files novella about Harry working to help a small-time criminal (and antagonist from a previous short I haven't read, I've inferred) go straight. A decent appetizer before Twelve Months comes out, but not a critical read for Dresden aficionados I suspect.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.5 of 5
Chicago has barely even begun its recovery and clean-up after the Battle of Chicago and already the wizard Harry Dresden is being called away for a different job. It's not something he wants to do, but since he owes John Marcone, the Baron of Chicago, a favor (for saving Harry's life ... hardly a favor anyone can ignore), he takes the job.
The job: help the lowlife, former pimp and gambler, Tripp Gregory, go straight. It shouldn't be too hard - he wants to go straight. He just needs some help understanding what's right and a few nudges here and there. It would seem he's off to a good start when he raises money for a charity and doesn't understand why it was wrong to gamble that money when he hit the jackpot and increased that jackpot many-fold for the charity.
There is a little problem, though ... beside the IRS ... the man who took the bet isn't paying out and Tripp needs Harry's help to get it. There's just a little problem ... while Harry has a Valkyrie as his personal bodyguard, the closed-fisted gambler who owes Tripp a lot of money, is backed by a creature not of this earth that has the capacity to take down the planet, starting with Harry.
This was so much fun. It's a short book, a novella, meant to fit in between the longer Dresden Files adventures (it's book #18.75 in the series). With Jim Butcher's talent at storytelling, the book moves along very quickly, though it doesn't feel rushed.
I don't think anyone write paranormal wizarding action scenes better than Butcher. It's got plenty of CTPP (Cool Things Per Page) and a hero we really enjoy. He's morally straight, even if he crosses a line or two when it comes to protecting Chicago. We see this in action (literally) in this book.
Given what Dresden's been through over the course of 18+ books, we don't really feel like this will be the end of Harry or the series. As bad as our other-worldy creature is that Harry battles in the climax, there isn't much tension of 'will he survive?' It's more about 'how will Harry get out of this one?' And yeah, it's creative and fun.
For me, this was the perfect length. I was ready for something fast, lively, and fun and this fit the desire perfectly. If you haven't read a Dresden Files book before, you could certainly pick this up, enjoy it, and you'll want to go back and read more.
Looking for a good book? Out Law by Jim Butcher is a Dresden Files novella, book #18.75 in the series. It has all the charm (pun in tended) of a full-length Dresden Files novel, but can easily be read in a day.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Chicago has barely even begun its recovery and clean-up after the Battle of Chicago and already the wizard Harry Dresden is being called away for a different job. It's not something he wants to do, but since he owes John Marcone, the Baron of Chicago, a favor (for saving Harry's life ... hardly a favor anyone can ignore), he takes the job.
The job: help the lowlife, former pimp and gambler, Tripp Gregory, go straight. It shouldn't be too hard - he wants to go straight. He just needs some help understanding what's right and a few nudges here and there. It would seem he's off to a good start when he raises money for a charity and doesn't understand why it was wrong to gamble that money when he hit the jackpot and increased that jackpot many-fold for the charity.
There is a little problem, though ... beside the IRS ... the man who took the bet isn't paying out and Tripp needs Harry's help to get it. There's just a little problem ... while Harry has a Valkyrie as his personal bodyguard, the closed-fisted gambler who owes Tripp a lot of money, is backed by a creature not of this earth that has the capacity to take down the planet, starting with Harry.
This was so much fun. It's a short book, a novella, meant to fit in between the longer Dresden Files adventures (it's book #18.75 in the series). With Jim Butcher's talent at storytelling, the book moves along very quickly, though it doesn't feel rushed.
I don't think anyone write paranormal wizarding action scenes better than Butcher. It's got plenty of CTPP (Cool Things Per Page) and a hero we really enjoy. He's morally straight, even if he crosses a line or two when it comes to protecting Chicago. We see this in action (literally) in this book.
Given what Dresden's been through over the course of 18+ books, we don't really feel like this will be the end of Harry or the series. As bad as our other-worldy creature is that Harry battles in the climax, there isn't much tension of 'will he survive?' It's more about 'how will Harry get out of this one?' And yeah, it's creative and fun.
For me, this was the perfect length. I was ready for something fast, lively, and fun and this fit the desire perfectly. If you haven't read a Dresden Files book before, you could certainly pick this up, enjoy it, and you'll want to go back and read more.
Looking for a good book? Out Law by Jim Butcher is a Dresden Files novella, book #18.75 in the series. It has all the charm (pun in tended) of a full-length Dresden Files novel, but can easily be read in a day.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out Law is one of those stories that reminds you why the Dresden Files still hit so hard, even after all this time. It is not world-ending stakes or cosmic horror driving the narrative in this one. It is something worse: the IRS. Harry Dresden, a wizard who can burn down monsters without flinching, is suddenly tangled up in tax fraud, legal paperwork, and the world’s sleaziest redemption project. It is hilarious and bizarre in true Butcher fashion.
The plot centers on Tripp Gregory, a former pimp and wannabe gambler who has stolen charity money and now has two things closing in on him. One is the government. The other is a body-stealing Aztec blood demon. Harry hates the guy. He really hates him. And yet he is stuck saving him, physically, morally, and legally. The setup forces Harry into a moral corner, and it's that tension that gives the story its bite. Watching Harry protect someone who represents everything he despises gives the novella a surprising amount of weight.
Butcher also leans into the physical nature of magic more than usual. The infection scene. The tainted meat. The black slime. It is gross, tactile, and fun. The action scenes, from a mountain lion ambush to a chaotic parking garage escape, are vivid and memorable. Because this is a novella, the pacing never slows down. Two hundred pages of non-stop chaos!
My favorite surprise was the legal angle. Max Valerious and the IRS agent, Constance Abernathy, give the story grounded tension that pays off. The characters aren't just dodging a demon. They are also trying to avoid federal prison and a massive stack of paperwork. Which, to some, might be even scarier.
If you are already a fan of the Dresden Files, this is a no-brainer. It works just as well for readers who want urban fantasy with grit, humor, and real consequences. Fans of Sandman Slim will feel right at home. Surprisingly enough, by the end, I caught myself rooting for Tripp. That's something I didn't see coming, that's for sure. That's the charm of this story, though. It is about second chances, and how maddeningly difficult they are.
A solid 4 stars. It is not a universe-shifting entry, but it is fast, intense, and satisfying. It feels like a monster-of-the-week television episode in the best way: fun, tense, and just the type of Dresden tale that makes you reach for the next one.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The plot centers on Tripp Gregory, a former pimp and wannabe gambler who has stolen charity money and now has two things closing in on him. One is the government. The other is a body-stealing Aztec blood demon. Harry hates the guy. He really hates him. And yet he is stuck saving him, physically, morally, and legally. The setup forces Harry into a moral corner, and it's that tension that gives the story its bite. Watching Harry protect someone who represents everything he despises gives the novella a surprising amount of weight.
Butcher also leans into the physical nature of magic more than usual. The infection scene. The tainted meat. The black slime. It is gross, tactile, and fun. The action scenes, from a mountain lion ambush to a chaotic parking garage escape, are vivid and memorable. Because this is a novella, the pacing never slows down. Two hundred pages of non-stop chaos!
My favorite surprise was the legal angle. Max Valerious and the IRS agent, Constance Abernathy, give the story grounded tension that pays off. The characters aren't just dodging a demon. They are also trying to avoid federal prison and a massive stack of paperwork. Which, to some, might be even scarier.
If you are already a fan of the Dresden Files, this is a no-brainer. It works just as well for readers who want urban fantasy with grit, humor, and real consequences. Fans of Sandman Slim will feel right at home. Surprisingly enough, by the end, I caught myself rooting for Tripp. That's something I didn't see coming, that's for sure. That's the charm of this story, though. It is about second chances, and how maddeningly difficult they are.
A solid 4 stars. It is not a universe-shifting entry, but it is fast, intense, and satisfying. It feels like a monster-of-the-week television episode in the best way: fun, tense, and just the type of Dresden tale that makes you reach for the next one.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📱📖 Read on Kindle
📃 208 pages
⏱ Duration: 3 hours
🏷️ Publisher: Podium Publishing
📅 Release Date: May 5, 2026
🎁 ARC provided by NetGalley
Harry Dresden is back! He's older, bruised, wiser, and still dropping one-liners that could set a ghoul on fire. Outlaw gives us a quieter, more introspective side of Chicago’s favorite wizard, while keeping all the gritty, high-stakes energy this series is known for. Out Law is a novella that punches well above its weight. It's got everything that makes Dresden Files addictive: the sharp-tongued wizard in over his head, action sequences that leave you breathless, and that signature Butcher wit that makes you snort-laugh in public and feel zero shame about it.
Tripp’s attempt to “go the nice route” might sound laughable in Marcone’s world, but Butcher writes it with such heart that you can’t help rooting for him. And Harry, our walking disaster with a moral compass forged in stubbornness, becomes the unlikely mentor you didn’t know you needed. And watching him give Tripp, a man Harry openly doesn't trust or even like, genuine, thoughtful advice on how to live an honest life hit different. That's growth, baby.
The plot is tight and doesn't overstay its welcome. Marcone calling in a life debt, a morally bankrupt side character trying to turn over a new leaf, a demon with a centuries-long grudge, the IRS (somehow scarier than the demon), and a cast of fan-favourite returning characters including Bob the Skull and Bear, Harry's seven-foot Valkyrie bodyguard. At 208 pages, there's no fat on this story. Every scene earns its place. The pacing is relentless in the best way, and the stakes feel genuinely high even in a shorter format.
Nineteen books in, and Butcher still finds new ways to deepen this universe. The action sings, the humor lands (as always), and by the end, I was grinning, a little misty-eyed, and ready for book 19 proper.
Would I recommend it?
If you're a Dresden Files fan, this is a non-negotiable read. Don't even think about skipping it. And if you've never read this series? Out Law is set a bit deep in the lore to be your entry point, but consider this your sign to start from Storm Front and work your way here. Because the payoff of watching Harry Dresden become this version of himself? Absolutely worth every page.
📃 208 pages
⏱ Duration: 3 hours
🏷️ Publisher: Podium Publishing
📅 Release Date: May 5, 2026
🎁 ARC provided by NetGalley
Harry Dresden is back! He's older, bruised, wiser, and still dropping one-liners that could set a ghoul on fire. Outlaw gives us a quieter, more introspective side of Chicago’s favorite wizard, while keeping all the gritty, high-stakes energy this series is known for. Out Law is a novella that punches well above its weight. It's got everything that makes Dresden Files addictive: the sharp-tongued wizard in over his head, action sequences that leave you breathless, and that signature Butcher wit that makes you snort-laugh in public and feel zero shame about it.
Tripp’s attempt to “go the nice route” might sound laughable in Marcone’s world, but Butcher writes it with such heart that you can’t help rooting for him. And Harry, our walking disaster with a moral compass forged in stubbornness, becomes the unlikely mentor you didn’t know you needed. And watching him give Tripp, a man Harry openly doesn't trust or even like, genuine, thoughtful advice on how to live an honest life hit different. That's growth, baby.
The plot is tight and doesn't overstay its welcome. Marcone calling in a life debt, a morally bankrupt side character trying to turn over a new leaf, a demon with a centuries-long grudge, the IRS (somehow scarier than the demon), and a cast of fan-favourite returning characters including Bob the Skull and Bear, Harry's seven-foot Valkyrie bodyguard. At 208 pages, there's no fat on this story. Every scene earns its place. The pacing is relentless in the best way, and the stakes feel genuinely high even in a shorter format.
Nineteen books in, and Butcher still finds new ways to deepen this universe. The action sings, the humor lands (as always), and by the end, I was grinning, a little misty-eyed, and ready for book 19 proper.
Would I recommend it?
If you're a Dresden Files fan, this is a non-negotiable read. Don't even think about skipping it. And if you've never read this series? Out Law is set a bit deep in the lore to be your entry point, but consider this your sign to start from Storm Front and work your way here. Because the payoff of watching Harry Dresden become this version of himself? Absolutely worth every page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out Law is Jim Butcher at his sharpest—fast‑paced, wildly entertaining, and brimming with the wit, grit, and emotional punch that fans have come to expect from his work. From the first chapter, Butcher pulls you into a world of high‑stakes magic, dangerous alliances, and morally tangled choices, crafting a story that feels both explosively fun and surprisingly heartfelt.
One of the novel’s standout strengths is Butcher’s signature character work. The protagonist is dynamic, layered, and instantly compelling, navigating chaos with a mix of determination, vulnerability, and dark humor. The supporting cast is equally memorable, each character adding depth, tension, and personality to the unfolding conflict. Relationships—whether antagonistic, reluctant, or unexpectedly tender—are written with nuance and spark.
The plot moves with relentless energy. Butcher balances action with intrigue, weaving together twists, magical confrontations, and clever reveals that keep the pages turning. Even in the quieter moments, there’s a sense of tension humming beneath the surface, making the book nearly impossible to put down.
Where Out Law really excels, though, is in its tone. It blends Butcher’s trademark snappy dialogue and cinematic action with emotional stakes that hit harder than expected. The humor never undercuts the drama, and the darker beats never overshadow the story’s heart—resulting in a narrative that feels both thrilling and deeply satisfying.
If there’s any minor critique, it’s that a couple of subplots could have used slightly more room to breathe. But the overall momentum and payoff more than make up for it.
Out Law is a bold, clever, high‑octane adventure that showcases Jim Butcher’s storytelling mastery from every angle.
One of the novel’s standout strengths is Butcher’s signature character work. The protagonist is dynamic, layered, and instantly compelling, navigating chaos with a mix of determination, vulnerability, and dark humor. The supporting cast is equally memorable, each character adding depth, tension, and personality to the unfolding conflict. Relationships—whether antagonistic, reluctant, or unexpectedly tender—are written with nuance and spark.
The plot moves with relentless energy. Butcher balances action with intrigue, weaving together twists, magical confrontations, and clever reveals that keep the pages turning. Even in the quieter moments, there’s a sense of tension humming beneath the surface, making the book nearly impossible to put down.
Where Out Law really excels, though, is in its tone. It blends Butcher’s trademark snappy dialogue and cinematic action with emotional stakes that hit harder than expected. The humor never undercuts the drama, and the darker beats never overshadow the story’s heart—resulting in a narrative that feels both thrilling and deeply satisfying.
If there’s any minor critique, it’s that a couple of subplots could have used slightly more room to breathe. But the overall momentum and payoff more than make up for it.
Out Law is a bold, clever, high‑octane adventure that showcases Jim Butcher’s storytelling mastery from every angle.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of this book, and my review is based on that copy. The published work may differ from what I read.
I love Harry Dresden. He’s such a uniquely flawed, endlessly endearing protagonist. The Dresden Files has been a series that I’ve enjoyed for the last couple of years (barring the last book, which made me so mad that I nearly threw it across the room). The novellas in the series are usually hit or miss for me. This one leans more to the hit side.
Butcher’s writing is consistently engaging. His pacing is smooth, fast, and balanced, and his knack for combining action with deeper emotional moments is impactful. His books make me laugh, tense up, and feel things. While I don’t always love some of the plot choices, I am always guaranteed to care about what I’m reading. I read this in one sitting. The story made me smile: being very familiar with accounting and taxes and the general headache they can cause, I enjoyed seeing something so practical be a hurdle. I also appreciated that Butcher was poking Harry right in his soft spot (which he tends to do a lot of), in making him stand on his principles.
Tripp’s process of growth was funny and heartwrenching at the same time. Harry’s determination to hope for the best, in spite of everything, and his refusal to give up on Tripp made for a few moving scenes. In fact, this novella works as a microcosm of the Dresden Files as a whole. It deals with the ethical quandaries that Harry is presented with, the very high cost that is extracted for his choices, and demonstrates the reason that Harry cannot do anything else.
Overall, a worthy addition to the Dresden Files canon and worth reading.
I love Harry Dresden. He’s such a uniquely flawed, endlessly endearing protagonist. The Dresden Files has been a series that I’ve enjoyed for the last couple of years (barring the last book, which made me so mad that I nearly threw it across the room). The novellas in the series are usually hit or miss for me. This one leans more to the hit side.
Butcher’s writing is consistently engaging. His pacing is smooth, fast, and balanced, and his knack for combining action with deeper emotional moments is impactful. His books make me laugh, tense up, and feel things. While I don’t always love some of the plot choices, I am always guaranteed to care about what I’m reading. I read this in one sitting. The story made me smile: being very familiar with accounting and taxes and the general headache they can cause, I enjoyed seeing something so practical be a hurdle. I also appreciated that Butcher was poking Harry right in his soft spot (which he tends to do a lot of), in making him stand on his principles.
Tripp’s process of growth was funny and heartwrenching at the same time. Harry’s determination to hope for the best, in spite of everything, and his refusal to give up on Tripp made for a few moving scenes. In fact, this novella works as a microcosm of the Dresden Files as a whole. It deals with the ethical quandaries that Harry is presented with, the very high cost that is extracted for his choices, and demonstrates the reason that Harry cannot do anything else.
Overall, a worthy addition to the Dresden Files canon and worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Dresden and a few key friends tackle a new enemy with ties to an old enemy. Fans of the series will love the side quest and new readers will not feel lost.
This was a very fun read. It is my first Dresden story but I have heard of the character as a family member loves the books and has read all of them. The novella was a great way to check out the series - as I could get a glimpse but without extensive investment.
As a novella goes I thought this was well done. There story was complete but without a lot of rushed details or giant leaps of the plot. I got to know the characters and have them begin and end a challenge within 22 short chapters. There was back story that would have added depth for fans of the series yet as a new reader I did not feel that I was missing anything or was being left out of the joke - which is a hard skill for a writer to do for new readers of a long standing series.
I liked the bits of humor. I liked that the magical names and creatures were not accompanied with really weird to pronounce names or titles that often are found in fantasy books. Now that I have had a taste of the magic and humor of this character my challenge will be to determine which of the full length books to tackle next!
'There's only one way to deal with fear -- punch it in its stupid face.'
'He's still doing shady crap." Fitz said. 'He's just aiming it a different direction."
'I'm not just a nonstop witticism machine and a snappy ballroom dancer.'
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very fun read. It is my first Dresden story but I have heard of the character as a family member loves the books and has read all of them. The novella was a great way to check out the series - as I could get a glimpse but without extensive investment.
As a novella goes I thought this was well done. There story was complete but without a lot of rushed details or giant leaps of the plot. I got to know the characters and have them begin and end a challenge within 22 short chapters. There was back story that would have added depth for fans of the series yet as a new reader I did not feel that I was missing anything or was being left out of the joke - which is a hard skill for a writer to do for new readers of a long standing series.
I liked the bits of humor. I liked that the magical names and creatures were not accompanied with really weird to pronounce names or titles that often are found in fantasy books. Now that I have had a taste of the magic and humor of this character my challenge will be to determine which of the full length books to tackle next!
'There's only one way to deal with fear -- punch it in its stupid face.'
'He's still doing shady crap." Fitz said. 'He's just aiming it a different direction."
'I'm not just a nonstop witticism machine and a snappy ballroom dancer.'
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Coming fast on the heels of “Twelve Months” we get a new novella from Jim Butcher featuring Harry Dresden in “Out Law”, a somewhat short story of redemption and second chances.
Harry is still recovering from his latest battles, hiding in his castle and trying to focus on teaching his new apprentice and rebuilding his life to some sense of normalcy (for him). But life is never normal for Harry…
Baron John Marcone comes to call, asking Dresden for a favor. And since Harry is somewhat in his debt (Marcone did save Harry’s life after all), he’s not really in a position to say no. So what is the favor? One of Marcon’s goons has decided to go straight, and who better than Harry to help guide him on his way?
Harry has some history with Tripp Gregory, the new convert to the good, but he puts that aside and starts to see what can be done. But the road isn’t quite that simple. We have the IRS after Tripp for questionable practices with the charity he set up. An out-of-town gang owes Tripp a lot of money and is trying hard not to have to pay it. And, of course, an ancient evil entity decides to get revenge on Harry. All in a typical days work for Chicago’s only private detective wizard.
A fun light(er) read after the major battles and themes in the main novels. A nice break until the world needs Harry again.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Podium Entertainment, Podium Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
Harry is still recovering from his latest battles, hiding in his castle and trying to focus on teaching his new apprentice and rebuilding his life to some sense of normalcy (for him). But life is never normal for Harry…
Baron John Marcone comes to call, asking Dresden for a favor. And since Harry is somewhat in his debt (Marcone did save Harry’s life after all), he’s not really in a position to say no. So what is the favor? One of Marcon’s goons has decided to go straight, and who better than Harry to help guide him on his way?
Harry has some history with Tripp Gregory, the new convert to the good, but he puts that aside and starts to see what can be done. But the road isn’t quite that simple. We have the IRS after Tripp for questionable practices with the charity he set up. An out-of-town gang owes Tripp a lot of money and is trying hard not to have to pay it. And, of course, an ancient evil entity decides to get revenge on Harry. All in a typical days work for Chicago’s only private detective wizard.
A fun light(er) read after the major battles and themes in the main novels. A nice break until the world needs Harry again.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Podium Entertainment, Podium Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Advance copy from Podium Entertainment, via NetGalley
4.5 stars
Hooray for bonus Jim Butcher this year! Both have felt like classic Butcher, with loads of action and great one-liners, without the lady ogling that made his older stuff tougher to reread. Based on the level of therapy and work on himself (or others) Harry does, I suspect Butcher has been doing some work on himself as well. Either way, I think he's putting out strong Dresden books, and that both relieves and excites me.
I liked that this novella was a redemption story for a former enemy. I don't see that very often in the books I read, and it was refreshing. I also loved Max and his Bassett Hound Peppermint (Peppermint!). The scenes with him really made me smile. Some of the therapy-ish dialogue with Tripp, the con man wanting to go straight, were a little much, but otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed this.
I'm glad Butcher is putting out good work after the long interval from Battle Ground to now. It sounds like he has a plan for the rest of the series, and there's an end in sight. I feel very optimistic he'll pull it off with style.
4.5 stars
Hooray for bonus Jim Butcher this year! Both have felt like classic Butcher, with loads of action and great one-liners, without the lady ogling that made his older stuff tougher to reread. Based on the level of therapy and work on himself (or others) Harry does, I suspect Butcher has been doing some work on himself as well. Either way, I think he's putting out strong Dresden books, and that both relieves and excites me.
I liked that this novella was a redemption story for a former enemy. I don't see that very often in the books I read, and it was refreshing. I also loved Max and his Bassett Hound Peppermint (Peppermint!). The scenes with him really made me smile. Some of the therapy-ish dialogue with Tripp, the con man wanting to go straight, were a little much, but otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed this.
I'm glad Butcher is putting out good work after the long interval from Battle Ground to now. It sounds like he has a plan for the rest of the series, and there's an end in sight. I feel very optimistic he'll pull it off with style.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've waited to read Twelve Months before reading and reviewing Out Law, and you should as well, since there are some characters - especially one - who are introduced in the Twelve Months. Out Law builds on some new information on the origins of Dresden Files vampires that were presented in the Twelve Months and returns Marcone to the scene, but other than that it feels almost like a filler. I can't shake the feeling that these 200 pages could have been used in a better way.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for more Dresden and I would love to have a side case novella, or a short novel, let's be honest, each year in addition to other books that Jim publishes, but this line of storytelling simply wasn't that interesting to me.
The writing was very professional, in fact much better than the first several full novels in the series - Butcher has come a really long way since those days - the plot was tightly woven, and as I've said, there was some info that will probably become important in some way later on, especially with Lara and Thomas, if my suspicions are correct. But all in all, this was not a terribly exciting read for me. 3*
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for more Dresden and I would love to have a side case novella, or a short novel, let's be honest, each year in addition to other books that Jim publishes, but this line of storytelling simply wasn't that interesting to me.
The writing was very professional, in fact much better than the first several full novels in the series - Butcher has come a really long way since those days - the plot was tightly woven, and as I've said, there was some info that will probably become important in some way later on, especially with Lara and Thomas, if my suspicions are correct. But all in all, this was not a terribly exciting read for me. 3*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
** Read the Law and Twelve Months before starting this*
4.5 Stars
Dresden is really back in form in this novella. Harry owes Marcone a favor, and we all know will never be as easy as Marcone makes it out to be. This leads Harry to a new way more formidable enemy that Harry finally can't punch his way out of, the IRS.
This felt like a breath of fresh air after how dark and grief stricken Twelve Months was. The plot was tight and the pacing was great. It really didn't feel like 200 pages, as I blew through it in an afternoon. I loved the use of the new characters from Twelve Months, allowing their characters to have more time to develop outside the main story line. Although I would have loved more from the spice team ;)
I think Butcher was a bit on the preachy side in this installment. He really wanted to hit into our heads what makes a good person, which in today's world seems necessary, so that didn't bother me too much. Although for the cover art, where is Harry's Hat??? lol
Thank you NetGalley and Podium Publishing for an advance copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
Dresden is really back in form in this novella. Harry owes Marcone a favor, and we all know will never be as easy as Marcone makes it out to be. This leads Harry to a new way more formidable enemy that Harry finally can't punch his way out of, the IRS.
This felt like a breath of fresh air after how dark and grief stricken Twelve Months was. The plot was tight and the pacing was great. It really didn't feel like 200 pages, as I blew through it in an afternoon. I loved the use of the new characters from Twelve Months, allowing their characters to have more time to develop outside the main story line. Although I would have loved more from the spice team ;)
I think Butcher was a bit on the preachy side in this installment. He really wanted to hit into our heads what makes a good person, which in today's world seems necessary, so that didn't bother me too much. Although for the cover art, where is Harry's Hat??? lol
Thank you NetGalley and Podium Publishing for an advance copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5/5
Harry Dresden is back on his feet, back to snark, and back to making bad choices for good reasons. I liked Out Law overall, even if it didn’t completely wow me.
The setup is classic Dresden. Marcone calls in a favor. A small-time criminal wants to go straight. Something old, ugly, and demonic gets involved. The city groans. Harry sighs. Trouble follows.
The pacing isn’t perfect. Some sections move fast, others feel a bit padded for a novella. The characters are fine but not especially memorable, and the intrigue never quite deepens into anything truly gripping. Still, Butcher knows exactly how to keep pages turning. I finished this in three sittings without effort.
Important to fans - Harry sounds like Harry again. He's wry, stubborn, and hopeful. There’s humor, a touch of gross magic, and a nice mix of supernatural mess and very boring human bureaucracy.
This isn’t a big, game-changing entry, but it’s a fun one. By the end, I just wanted the next Dresden book already.
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Harry Dresden is back on his feet, back to snark, and back to making bad choices for good reasons. I liked Out Law overall, even if it didn’t completely wow me.
The setup is classic Dresden. Marcone calls in a favor. A small-time criminal wants to go straight. Something old, ugly, and demonic gets involved. The city groans. Harry sighs. Trouble follows.
The pacing isn’t perfect. Some sections move fast, others feel a bit padded for a novella. The characters are fine but not especially memorable, and the intrigue never quite deepens into anything truly gripping. Still, Butcher knows exactly how to keep pages turning. I finished this in three sittings without effort.
Important to fans - Harry sounds like Harry again. He's wry, stubborn, and hopeful. There’s humor, a touch of gross magic, and a nice mix of supernatural mess and very boring human bureaucracy.
This isn’t a big, game-changing entry, but it’s a fun one. By the end, I just wanted the next Dresden book already.
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm not going to lie. I'm predisposed to like all things Dresden Files related. Even though we had to wait for the newest book for 5 years, here's Jim Butcher with a new novella only a few months later. Harry seems to be over the trauma from the Battle of Chicago from the last book. Marcone shows up one day, wanting to clear the decks. Harry owes him after Marcone saved his life. Tripp Gregory, former pimp and general lowlife, is looking to turn over a new leaf and seems to be earnest about it. So Harry has to reluctantly help him. The problem is he keeps doing it the wrong way and has himself in a mess. The IRS is after him. So is the son of an old woman he talked into donating all her money to charity before she died. He's also has an out of town mob looking to welsh on a bet he won and has some supernatural help behind them. I love how this ties back into the Red Court. This is one of the things I love about this series, how threads weave in and out of its mythology over time.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Jim Butcher for sending me this advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This one took us back to our classic Dresden roots. It does take place after Twelve Months, but there are no spoilers if you accidently read it first.
This was a solid Chicago romp filled with action, and as always some very nasty people to deal with. I did enjoy that there has been a lot of personal growth for Harry, and he is starting to take more responsibility and think before doing as many stupid things. There is still plenty of good old fashioned snark, sass, and property destruction as always.
I loved watching Tripp worked towards becoming a good guy, even though he is really bad at it. He is trying so hard, and it's sweet. I also enjoyed getting back together with a few favorite side characters too.
Overall it is a great quick read, and a very fun addition to the series.
This one took us back to our classic Dresden roots. It does take place after Twelve Months, but there are no spoilers if you accidently read it first.
This was a solid Chicago romp filled with action, and as always some very nasty people to deal with. I did enjoy that there has been a lot of personal growth for Harry, and he is starting to take more responsibility and think before doing as many stupid things. There is still plenty of good old fashioned snark, sass, and property destruction as always.
I loved watching Tripp worked towards becoming a good guy, even though he is really bad at it. He is trying so hard, and it's sweet. I also enjoyed getting back together with a few favorite side characters too.
Overall it is a great quick read, and a very fun addition to the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sometimes, it’s not easy being the good guy. Harry Dresden is presented with an opportunity to help someone learn from past mistakes. Obviously, it is not that straightforward.
Jim Butcher’s Out Law is funny, vivid, and action-packed. The story has memorable one-liners (Max, in particular, is hilarious), it successfully plays with the 4th wall, and follows a clear moral path without becoming didactic. The world is textured, the dialogue sharp, the characters memorable, and the style both clever and consistent.
If you like your urban fantasy main characters self-aware, sardonic, and ethical when it gets tough, coupled with the odd gross-out moment, I recommend Out Law.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment/Podium Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC. I received an uncorrected ARC of Out Law through NetGalley; typos and usage errors were not factored into this voluntary review.
Jim Butcher’s Out Law is funny, vivid, and action-packed. The story has memorable one-liners (Max, in particular, is hilarious), it successfully plays with the 4th wall, and follows a clear moral path without becoming didactic. The world is textured, the dialogue sharp, the characters memorable, and the style both clever and consistent.
If you like your urban fantasy main characters self-aware, sardonic, and ethical when it gets tough, coupled with the odd gross-out moment, I recommend Out Law.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment/Podium Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC. I received an uncorrected ARC of Out Law through NetGalley; typos and usage errors were not factored into this voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out Law finds Harry Dresden in a dilemma. John Marcone has called in a favour for saving Harry’s life – but the favour is helping obnoxious former criminal Tripp Gregory go straight. As always with the Baron, it isn’t even remotely that simple and involves an investigation by the IRS, a rival gang refusing to pay up on a dodgy bet and a malicious demon capable of possessing all living creatures.
I love the full novels but it is nice to see Harry face something a little more local, a little less world-destroying (for now!) for a change. This novella is more light-hearted after the explosive events in Twelve Months and lets us see Harry attempt to explain why he does what he does to someone who has never done anything without personal gain.
The action is fab as usual, Harry is on fine form and I loved everything about it. If you’re a fan of the Dresden series then this is a must.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
I love the full novels but it is nice to see Harry face something a little more local, a little less world-destroying (for now!) for a change. This novella is more light-hearted after the explosive events in Twelve Months and lets us see Harry attempt to explain why he does what he does to someone who has never done anything without personal gain.
The action is fab as usual, Harry is on fine form and I loved everything about it. If you’re a fan of the Dresden series then this is a must.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
advance review copy received from NetGalley in return for an honest review
Out Law is a sharp, satisfying return to Harry Dresden’s world, neatly bridging the gap after Twelve Months. Set in a Chicago still recovering from recent chaos, the novella leans into Harry’s exhaustion, stubborn morality, and dry humour — all very recognisably Dresden, but with a slightly more reflective edge.
The plot kicks off with a seemingly simple favour involving Marcone, and predictably spirals into danger. While shorter and more focused than a full novel, it packs in plenty of tension, banter, and emotional weight. It does feel like a connector piece rather than a standalone, but it’s a strong one that deepens character and teases what’s coming next.
A solid four-star read for fans of the series — compact, engaging, and very welcome.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
Out Law is a sharp, satisfying return to Harry Dresden’s world, neatly bridging the gap after Twelve Months. Set in a Chicago still recovering from recent chaos, the novella leans into Harry’s exhaustion, stubborn morality, and dry humour — all very recognisably Dresden, but with a slightly more reflective edge.
The plot kicks off with a seemingly simple favour involving Marcone, and predictably spirals into danger. While shorter and more focused than a full novel, it packs in plenty of tension, banter, and emotional weight. It does feel like a connector piece rather than a standalone, but it’s a strong one that deepens character and teases what’s coming next.
A solid four-star read for fans of the series — compact, engaging, and very welcome.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Podium Entertainment | Podium Publishing for this ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rating: 5.0/5.0 Stars
We are back to a typical, chaotic week in the life of Harry Dresden. In most Dresden Files novels, that week involves several unrelated, high-stakes problems occurring simultaneously, all of which need his full attention.
In this tightly paced novella, Out Law is set after Twelve Months, where Baron John Marcone calls in his IOU for saving Harry’s life, guaranteeing a particularly harrowing week for him. It delivers exactly what fans want: high stakes, explosive action, and the series' signature wit. With our new favorite sidekick, Bear, Harry works to solve Marcone’s problem and protect the city of Chicago.
It is a fantastic addition to the Dresden Files Lore and well worth the read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rating: 5.0/5.0 Stars
We are back to a typical, chaotic week in the life of Harry Dresden. In most Dresden Files novels, that week involves several unrelated, high-stakes problems occurring simultaneously, all of which need his full attention.
In this tightly paced novella, Out Law is set after Twelve Months, where Baron John Marcone calls in his IOU for saving Harry’s life, guaranteeing a particularly harrowing week for him. It delivers exactly what fans want: high stakes, explosive action, and the series' signature wit. With our new favorite sidekick, Bear, Harry works to solve Marcone’s problem and protect the city of Chicago.
It is a fantastic addition to the Dresden Files Lore and well worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc:
“Please read Twelve Months and The Law before reading Outlaw”
When finding out I was approved for an arc read for one of my favourite authors of all time I literally screamed and danced around my room!
This was a really fun time.Being back in the world of Dresden is so comforting, especially after that rollercoaster of Twelve Months having a dark personal grief to it.
I love the dynamic between Marcone and Harry as well as the new dynamics of characters.
I loved how Butcher put the concepts of today’s world to illustrate to us what it takes to change to be a good person for oneself or another.
Reflecting from Twelve Months to Outlaw does show the leadership of Harry to the reader which we might see in the upcoming books.
Can’t wait for more Dresden!
“Please read Twelve Months and The Law before reading Outlaw”
When finding out I was approved for an arc read for one of my favourite authors of all time I literally screamed and danced around my room!
This was a really fun time.Being back in the world of Dresden is so comforting, especially after that rollercoaster of Twelve Months having a dark personal grief to it.
I love the dynamic between Marcone and Harry as well as the new dynamics of characters.
I loved how Butcher put the concepts of today’s world to illustrate to us what it takes to change to be a good person for oneself or another.
Reflecting from Twelve Months to Outlaw does show the leadership of Harry to the reader which we might see in the upcoming books.
Can’t wait for more Dresden!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out Law. a Dresden Files novella by Jim Butcher, is a quick, fun romp in the always entertaining world of Harry Dresden that sweeps the reader along, turning the pages enthusiastically to the very end.
Harry plays the master to an unlikely padawan in this novella as he reluctantly agrees to mentor a former foe who wants to become a better person. Of course, nothing that Harry does is ever as simple as it seems, and an especially horrible foe sets sights on Harry and all he holds dear. I enjoyed reading how Harry extricates himself from what initially seem to be unsurmountable odds, all the while acting as a role model to someone who desperately needs it.
As usual, superbly written, fast paced, and non stop fun! It's the book equivalent of a popcorn movie!
I'm happy to have read an ARC of #OutLaw courtesy of the publisher through #NetGalley.
Harry plays the master to an unlikely padawan in this novella as he reluctantly agrees to mentor a former foe who wants to become a better person. Of course, nothing that Harry does is ever as simple as it seems, and an especially horrible foe sets sights on Harry and all he holds dear. I enjoyed reading how Harry extricates himself from what initially seem to be unsurmountable odds, all the while acting as a role model to someone who desperately needs it.
As usual, superbly written, fast paced, and non stop fun! It's the book equivalent of a popcorn movie!
I'm happy to have read an ARC of #OutLaw courtesy of the publisher through #NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m always glad to be back in Dresden’s universe even if it takes me a bit to remember what’s going on since it’s usually a minute (or many, many minutes) since the last book. This is a novella where Harry does a favor for Marcone for one of Marcone’s employees. And in typical Harry fashion, it takes all Harry’s wits to help this guy out, especially when a demon seems bent on taking over those Harry protects. This is a fun, little interlude between books, and it was great seeing Harry and some of his entourage again. I’ll still need to catch up on events from the last book before I read the next one, as I can’t seem to remember. No big deal, this is still a very good novella even if I didn’t remember everything. As always, well-written, entertaining, and fun. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was another entertaining story featuring Chicago's wizard Harry Dresden. Set after Twelve Months, Harry is tasked--by John Marcone, in exchange for assistance Marcone had provided during the fight against Ethniu--with helping a criminal go straight. This isn't just any criminal, however, it's someone Harry has encountered before (and positively dislikes).
Harry, with the assistance of Bear, Fitz, and a certain lawyer we met in the novella The Law, must help this former criminal do the right thing, all the while trying not to be killed.
I highly recommend people read The Law before reading this novella. It would also help to have read Twelve Months as well since there are minor spoilers. All in all, though, this is a minor adventure in the life of Harry Dresden rather than a potentially world-ending one, albeit an entertaining one.
Harry, with the assistance of Bear, Fitz, and a certain lawyer we met in the novella The Law, must help this former criminal do the right thing, all the while trying not to be killed.
I highly recommend people read The Law before reading this novella. It would also help to have read Twelve Months as well since there are minor spoilers. All in all, though, this is a minor adventure in the life of Harry Dresden rather than a potentially world-ending one, albeit an entertaining one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Upfront I have always really liked Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files books. A new book in the series gets searched out immediately. This was no exception to that. I loved this bite sized addition to the series.
This novella is a more lightweight delve into the Dresden urban fantasy world. I would say the action is more akin to a TV programme compared to the more usual blockbuster film.
But a fun read all the same. Urban fantasy at its best.
You could possibly read this as a stand alone. But It would be much better to have read some of, if not all, the other Files before this one. They really are entertaining page turners.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
This novella is a more lightweight delve into the Dresden urban fantasy world. I would say the action is more akin to a TV programme compared to the more usual blockbuster film.
But a fun read all the same. Urban fantasy at its best.
You could possibly read this as a stand alone. But It would be much better to have read some of, if not all, the other Files before this one. They really are entertaining page turners.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Can a career criminal truly seek and gain redemption ?
Harry is put on the spot by his frenemy John Marcone , Baron of Chicago
who points out that Harry is still in his debt ......... he wants him to help an
underling to go straight - what are his motives ?.
Nothing is as it seems in this fast paced novella , where the past impacts
on the present , where every twist has a turn , where Harry must use all his gifts
just keep not just himself but also those around him alive .
I wish it had been a longer book with a bit more depth to characters but it
was enjoyable throughout - Harry at his best yet again
Harry is put on the spot by his frenemy John Marcone , Baron of Chicago
who points out that Harry is still in his debt ......... he wants him to help an
underling to go straight - what are his motives ?.
Nothing is as it seems in this fast paced novella , where the past impacts
on the present , where every twist has a turn , where Harry must use all his gifts
just keep not just himself but also those around him alive .
I wish it had been a longer book with a bit more depth to characters but it
was enjoyable throughout - Harry at his best yet again
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First Dresden novella after Book 18, Twelve Months. This time we go back to Tripp, a character from the post-book 17 novella The Law, and have Marcone asking Harry to help him get straight and on the right path. Typical hijinks and magical chaos ensue, but ultimately a good ending, as usual. Nice to see Harry focused and on the right path again.
Both "The Law" and "Out Law" will probably be part of a future short stories/novellas collection. Definitely worth your time.
Recommend.
... now the long wait till Book 19 "Mirror Mirror"..... ugh
Both "The Law" and "Out Law" will probably be part of a future short stories/novellas collection. Definitely worth your time.
Recommend.
... now the long wait till Book 19 "Mirror Mirror"..... ugh
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