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Dresden Files: Wild Card #1-6
Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files: Wild Card
INSIDE COVER:
WILD CARD
An uneasy peace has settled over Chicago, where an array of supernatural factions frequently battle for supremacy. Thanks to the city's only Wizard for Hire, Harry Dresden, a plot targeting magical practitioners was stopped, and the White Court of Vampires' part in it exposed. 'Gentleman' Johnny Marcone, the town's most powerful and ruthless mob boss, was made a freeholding Baron under the Unseelie Accords, a set of decrees governing the actions of the magical world's major powers, in return for his help in ending the threat. Son after, Marcone once again aided Harry and his apprentice, Molly Carpenter, this time helping them take down a mad wizard bent on making Chicago his personal playground.
However, the gangster remains a dangerous criminal who, whatever his motivations, is wholly focused on cultivating his own power. The White Court, led by Lara Raith, is the dominant supernatural faction and sees the city's citizens as nothing more than a source of sustenance and pleasure.
Things are calm now, but tension between these rivals boils beneath the surface...
Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files saga continues in this original and in-continuity graphic novel, featuring a never-before-told story set after the bestselling novel White Night and graphic novel Down Town! A bizarre double murder draws the interest of Chicago's only wizard-for-hire. But as Harry Dresden begins his investigation, the clues lead to troubling conclusions about the possible perpetrator, and set him on a path that will place him in the middle of a conflict between the city's three most powerful factions -- a conflict that could engulf all of Chicago!
REVIEWS:
"If you re already a fan of Harry and his ragtag band of hooligans and ne'er-do-wells, this latest offering from the folks at Dynamite could very well be a great way to pass the time while you wait for the next book." - The Pullbox
"Every panel is exciting to read, and Carlos Gomez really knows his way around a pencil." - The Outhousers
"Dark, gritty, mysterious, and full of magic." - AIPT
"Great art and solid writing." - Critical Blast
"An interesting premise and well written characters." - Project Nerd
"Step into this tale and you will feel richly rewarded." - Big Comic Page
"Good amounts of levity and seriousness." - Bounding Into Comics
WILD CARD
An uneasy peace has settled over Chicago, where an array of supernatural factions frequently battle for supremacy. Thanks to the city's only Wizard for Hire, Harry Dresden, a plot targeting magical practitioners was stopped, and the White Court of Vampires' part in it exposed. 'Gentleman' Johnny Marcone, the town's most powerful and ruthless mob boss, was made a freeholding Baron under the Unseelie Accords, a set of decrees governing the actions of the magical world's major powers, in return for his help in ending the threat. Son after, Marcone once again aided Harry and his apprentice, Molly Carpenter, this time helping them take down a mad wizard bent on making Chicago his personal playground.
However, the gangster remains a dangerous criminal who, whatever his motivations, is wholly focused on cultivating his own power. The White Court, led by Lara Raith, is the dominant supernatural faction and sees the city's citizens as nothing more than a source of sustenance and pleasure.
Things are calm now, but tension between these rivals boils beneath the surface...
Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files saga continues in this original and in-continuity graphic novel, featuring a never-before-told story set after the bestselling novel White Night and graphic novel Down Town! A bizarre double murder draws the interest of Chicago's only wizard-for-hire. But as Harry Dresden begins his investigation, the clues lead to troubling conclusions about the possible perpetrator, and set him on a path that will place him in the middle of a conflict between the city's three most powerful factions -- a conflict that could engulf all of Chicago!
REVIEWS:
"If you re already a fan of Harry and his ragtag band of hooligans and ne'er-do-wells, this latest offering from the folks at Dynamite could very well be a great way to pass the time while you wait for the next book." - The Pullbox
"Every panel is exciting to read, and Carlos Gomez really knows his way around a pencil." - The Outhousers
"Dark, gritty, mysterious, and full of magic." - AIPT
"Great art and solid writing." - Critical Blast
"An interesting premise and well written characters." - Project Nerd
"Step into this tale and you will feel richly rewarded." - Big Comic Page
"Good amounts of levity and seriousness." - Bounding Into Comics
146 pages, Hardcover
First published October 25, 2016
117 people are currently reading
903 people want to read
About the author
Mark Powers
168 books22 followersMark Powers is the writer who created several of the graphic novels adapted The Dresden Files books by Jim Butcher and co-writer of The Encoded from Devil's Due comics. He is a writer at Mega Powers Entertainment and a producer at Volta. At Mega Powers Entertainment he has written comic books and graphic adaptations for various companies including Drafted, Rest, GI Joe, and adaptations of The Dresden Files. He was also a Senior Editor at Marvel managing the X-Men line of titles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
June 20, 2017
This was a pretty cool story right up till the last few pages. WTF? Talk about a weird-ass way to end what could have been a really exciting Dresden tale.
But.
The majority of this is a fun look at quite a few of the main characters in this series. All the major players in the supernatural & mortal world have been tricked and pitted against one another by some anonymous enemy. Of course, it's up to Harry to find out who's the real culprit behind all the recent deaths.
Dun, dun, dunnnn!
So far so good, especially for a graphic novel. The art was slick, and everyone looked (to me) pretty much like they do in my head.
Plus, it was like one of those old Columbo stories where you know who the bad guy is right off the bat, but you don't know why he did it. It was a tad different than what you normally see so I thought that was cool.
Ok. That ending.
It wasn't that it was bad so much as it was INCREDIBLY anti-climactic.
Well, yeah. That happened.
It was off-putting and kind of left me with a deflated feeling when I closed the book. But looking back? The majority of the story was solid, so I'd still recommend it to any hardcore Dresden fans.
But.
The majority of this is a fun look at quite a few of the main characters in this series. All the major players in the supernatural & mortal world have been tricked and pitted against one another by some anonymous enemy. Of course, it's up to Harry to find out who's the real culprit behind all the recent deaths.
Dun, dun, dunnnn!
So far so good, especially for a graphic novel. The art was slick, and everyone looked (to me) pretty much like they do in my head.
Plus, it was like one of those old Columbo stories where you know who the bad guy is right off the bat, but you don't know why he did it. It was a tad different than what you normally see so I thought that was cool.
Ok. That ending.
It wasn't that it was bad so much as it was INCREDIBLY anti-climactic.
Well, yeah. That happened.
It was off-putting and kind of left me with a deflated feeling when I closed the book. But looking back? The majority of the story was solid, so I'd still recommend it to any hardcore Dresden fans.
July 20, 2025
Actual rating is 3.5 stars.
This is a comic collection that is part of a long running series that includes novels, graphic novels, and short stories. In this one there is a new Big Bad in town. All the current warring factions put aside their differences and take on this new threat. Basically it your team up collection.
Up until the final issue I was convinced that I was going to give this four stars. I was enjoying everything about it. The premise fits perfectly with the entire series. I loved having a visual of some of the beloved characters that I have read about. Speaking of characters it seems like so many made an appearance that fans of the series will be ecstatic. The dialogue was on point and what I expect from this series. The artwork was terrific. Crisp and clear with wonderful coloring and panels. Then...the final issue. Yeah. Not good. What a lousy way to conclude this collection. I get it. You really cannot have anything of vital importance that will affect the run of the novels. But that was so anti climatic. There had to be a better way to conclude the action.
This is not my favorite comic collection from this series. All because of one issue. A total miss on that conclusion. That being said it is still a nice way to kill some time and to see how your interpretation of characters match up with this comic collection.
This is a comic collection that is part of a long running series that includes novels, graphic novels, and short stories. In this one there is a new Big Bad in town. All the current warring factions put aside their differences and take on this new threat. Basically it your team up collection.
Up until the final issue I was convinced that I was going to give this four stars. I was enjoying everything about it. The premise fits perfectly with the entire series. I loved having a visual of some of the beloved characters that I have read about. Speaking of characters it seems like so many made an appearance that fans of the series will be ecstatic. The dialogue was on point and what I expect from this series. The artwork was terrific. Crisp and clear with wonderful coloring and panels. Then...the final issue. Yeah. Not good. What a lousy way to conclude this collection. I get it. You really cannot have anything of vital importance that will affect the run of the novels. But that was so anti climatic. There had to be a better way to conclude the action.
This is not my favorite comic collection from this series. All because of one issue. A total miss on that conclusion. That being said it is still a nice way to kill some time and to see how your interpretation of characters match up with this comic collection.
November 4, 2016
I received a preview eARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley.
I really enjoy these Dresden Files comics. The story isn't as brilliant as the regular novels, but they serve nicely as short stories to cleanse the palate a little as we wait for the next book. I think the feel of the series is there primarily because Butcher himself contributes to the writing. And the artwork in this is wonderful! Mark Powers does a great job writing with Butcher and adapting the story to comics, and Carlos Gomez captures the images just perfectly.
And bonus points if you noticed that Dresden doesn't have a hat.
I really enjoy these Dresden Files comics. The story isn't as brilliant as the regular novels, but they serve nicely as short stories to cleanse the palate a little as we wait for the next book. I think the feel of the series is there primarily because Butcher himself contributes to the writing. And the artwork in this is wonderful! Mark Powers does a great job writing with Butcher and adapting the story to comics, and Carlos Gomez captures the images just perfectly.
And bonus points if you noticed that Dresden doesn't have a hat.
May 28, 2025
First honestly, I do not have the trade paperback but bought the whole comic short series in single episodes. And I like that fine.
I generally wait for short series to finish before I start reading them in one go.
So what do you do when jim Butcher is not delivering a regular novel?- You pick up his filler comic series which are actually quite good and keep yourselves in the Dresden universe.
There is trouble afoot in Dreden's Chicago as somebody tries to set up a war between the police, the White court and Baron Marcone. And guess where Harry and his friends stand?- Between a rock and a hard place. This time they are up against a formidable and magical foe from the Nevernever who aims to find a new place of residence. And he is a neighbour you do not want to have. And of course in the end it is Harry who saves the day but not without the help of Lady Fortuna.
Another excellent installment in the Dresden files. Well worth your while if you enjoy this kind of thing.
I generally wait for short series to finish before I start reading them in one go.
So what do you do when jim Butcher is not delivering a regular novel?- You pick up his filler comic series which are actually quite good and keep yourselves in the Dresden universe.
There is trouble afoot in Dreden's Chicago as somebody tries to set up a war between the police, the White court and Baron Marcone. And guess where Harry and his friends stand?- Between a rock and a hard place. This time they are up against a formidable and magical foe from the Nevernever who aims to find a new place of residence. And he is a neighbour you do not want to have. And of course in the end it is Harry who saves the day but not without the help of Lady Fortuna.
Another excellent installment in the Dresden files. Well worth your while if you enjoy this kind of thing.
April 12, 2017
+Digital copy gently provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review+
3.5 psychopathic stars
It was a pretty generic story , for Dresden. A big baddie, an almost war, and the usual suspects. But I can't determine the exact timing for this story among the novels.
Some entity is causing trouble in Chicago, and people blame each other.
We find working together again Harry and Thomas . Molly is there, too. And Murphy shows a bit of her past.
(Li'l Karrin+dad)
(Is weird to see Butters like that)
But beside the usual beaten up Dresden, and the rush, something is missing. Marcone doesn't translate his personality in the comics. Lara is another matter, but we know almost nothing about her.
Thomas and Harry, in another hand,
*my favorite cover was the last one :)
The ending is weak.
-------------------
Historia entretenida, pero el final fue anticlimático.
Buen dibujo.
3.5 psychopathic stars
It was a pretty generic story , for Dresden. A big baddie, an almost war, and the usual suspects. But I can't determine the exact timing for this story among the novels.
Some entity is causing trouble in Chicago, and people blame each other.
We find working together again Harry and Thomas . Molly is there, too. And Murphy shows a bit of her past.
(Li'l Karrin+dad)
(Is weird to see Butters like that)
But beside the usual beaten up Dresden, and the rush, something is missing. Marcone doesn't translate his personality in the comics. Lara is another matter, but we know almost nothing about her.
Thomas and Harry, in another hand,
*my favorite cover was the last one :)
The ending is weak.
-------------------
Historia entretenida, pero el final fue anticlimático.
Buen dibujo.
September 21, 2018
Let me be very clear that the high rating is for the story in general. I was not very impressed with the character renditions, not to say as a stand alone the characteristics in a visual manner would not be impressive and my opinion would have been different, however since I know and love the characters I was a but floored about a few. Butters for example has never looked the way I have seen him drawn out in these graphic novels, Thomas looks like a mutant with muscles and I always felt he was more of a lean muscle, larger than Harry but not a body builder! But I digress...by far my favorite rendition (and most accurate in my opinion) was Lara. I have a love/hate opinion of that woman but I may be moving to a more positive appreciation of her after this. (I will admit that once again I may "dislike the graphic novel interpretation of a Dresden Files story because of the way Molly looks...everyone knows by now I am not a fan, and seeing her in a different like pisses me off because I tend to like her like that!)
June 30, 2017
Great art, a fun setup but a bad, or better yet, a stupid ending. And that's a shame cause everything else was great. It's fun, the characters are likable and it keeps you rooted to your seat.
Still for fans of Harry a must read :)
Still for fans of Harry a must read :)
November 24, 2018
I'll take anything new featuring Harry Dresden. Someone is running around Chicago killing people to try and start a war between the various factions within the city. Harry must find out who it is and stop them before war breaks out. Carlos Gomez's art is really good. I can see a little of Terry Dodson or Adam Hughes influence.
Received an advance copy from Dynamite and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received an advance copy from Dynamite and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2020
The story wasn't great, the art wasn't good at all (Marcone's eyes weren't even green) and there wasn't nearly enough John Marcone in it. I know that last thing wouldn't really be an issue for everyone - but it was an issue for me.
November 16, 2016
This one is so good that i can say that was almost perfect (and pretend that the end was good)
-RTC-
A digital copy of this book was provided by NetGalley
-RTC-
A digital copy of this book was provided by NetGalley
November 12, 2016
In the graphic novel Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files: Wild card, Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only wizard-for-hire, is facing one of his most dangerous adversaries, one who has managed to set many groups who have been coexisting, if not happily at least peacefully together, at each other’s throats. Dresden will need to convince them all first that this new entity actually exists and that they must work together to defeat him.
The action in this latest graphic novel written by author Jim Butcher and beautifully drawn by artist Carlos Gomez is set after the novel White Night and the graphic novel Down Town. If you haven’t read either, it isn’t absolutely necessary to do so because it works fairly well as a standalone. However, if you’re a fan of urban fantasy, you really should because they give you the back stories of the many characters and all of the many and differing relationships and, more importantly, they are both terrific reads.
This latest Dresden Files graphic novel is released by Dynamite Entertainment. It collects together the original six-part story arc and it is one fun fast read. There’s plenty of action, Puck is one hell of an adversary worthy of Dresden and the gang, and the artwork is bang on. It does end on a cliffhanger and I will admit I was a bit disappointed but that’s only because the rest of the story was so unremittingly exciting and now I have to wait to see how it all turns out. But that’s okay because it gives me something to look forward to in my favourite urban fantasy.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dynamite for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
The action in this latest graphic novel written by author Jim Butcher and beautifully drawn by artist Carlos Gomez is set after the novel White Night and the graphic novel Down Town. If you haven’t read either, it isn’t absolutely necessary to do so because it works fairly well as a standalone. However, if you’re a fan of urban fantasy, you really should because they give you the back stories of the many characters and all of the many and differing relationships and, more importantly, they are both terrific reads.
This latest Dresden Files graphic novel is released by Dynamite Entertainment. It collects together the original six-part story arc and it is one fun fast read. There’s plenty of action, Puck is one hell of an adversary worthy of Dresden and the gang, and the artwork is bang on. It does end on a cliffhanger and I will admit I was a bit disappointed but that’s only because the rest of the story was so unremittingly exciting and now I have to wait to see how it all turns out. But that’s okay because it gives me something to look forward to in my favourite urban fantasy.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dynamite for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
November 20, 2020
I was going to give it a four star rating until that ending. That was just stupid.
September 19, 2016
The story boasts many of the the best hallmarks of the prose series: it's entertaining, action-packed, clever, and populated with characters for whom we care and cheer. Fits well within the Dresden world, with only a few minor missteps, and it was fabulous to see both Murphy and Molly be integral to the action rather than relegated to female commentary on what the men were doing.
What works against real success is the distractingly adolescent artwork. Hyper-sexualized characters are depicted in awkward proportions and poses, and everyone seems stamped out of a narrowly envisioned paper doll template that makes it difficult to distinguish from each other.
What works against real success is the distractingly adolescent artwork. Hyper-sexualized characters are depicted in awkward proportions and poses, and everyone seems stamped out of a narrowly envisioned paper doll template that makes it difficult to distinguish from each other.
February 8, 2017
There's one word that comes to my mind after reading this: FUN! Yet another Dresden graphic novel I enjoyed a lot. Although I somehow imagined Thomas differently, but I can live with that.
A set of strange murders stirs unease among Chicago's strongest forces. Once again Harry has to use his magical diplomatic skills to help save everyone ;P. We all know how good diplomat he is, right?
As pretty much every Dresden story this one is also entertaining, filled with action and near-death experiences. Some magic casting, a glimpse into Murphy's past and tough negotiations (although they might've ended up surprisingly fast) will keep your attention. We'll even meet Harry's fairy godmother :).
It's a good filler story when you can't wait for another Dresden novel to come out. Plus it has a nice graphic. Even if I've imagined some of the characters differently, it was still pleasant to look at and easy to follow.
The ending left me staring at the screen, mouth wide open with these little comic bubbles saying things like: "what???" "seriously?" "no way!". That was not something I'd expect. I kind of liked it, but I was expecting a very different solution. Which is fun, I love when authors can surprise you like that.
To sum it up, it was entertaining, filled with action, some snippets from the past and an unpredictable ending. Kind of a weird ending.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A set of strange murders stirs unease among Chicago's strongest forces. Once again Harry has to use his magical diplomatic skills to help save everyone ;P. We all know how good diplomat he is, right?
As pretty much every Dresden story this one is also entertaining, filled with action and near-death experiences. Some magic casting, a glimpse into Murphy's past and tough negotiations (although they might've ended up surprisingly fast) will keep your attention. We'll even meet Harry's fairy godmother :).
It's a good filler story when you can't wait for another Dresden novel to come out. Plus it has a nice graphic. Even if I've imagined some of the characters differently, it was still pleasant to look at and easy to follow.
The ending left me staring at the screen, mouth wide open with these little comic bubbles saying things like: "what???" "seriously?" "no way!". That was not something I'd expect. I kind of liked it, but I was expecting a very different solution. Which is fun, I love when authors can surprise you like that.
To sum it up, it was entertaining, filled with action, some snippets from the past and an unpredictable ending. Kind of a weird ending.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2024
This story is set in the middle of the series unlike 'Welcome to the Jungle' which was a prequel. This time a powerful foe comes around to set everyone against everyone and as always the art was great and the action set pieces were great as always it was again an original story so it's fun to read more stories set in the world. I have read the entire series and the short stories collections so now let's bite through the graphic novels which are adaptations of the first two books and then these look to be original stories and I am not complaining at all no sirs and madams not at all I am loving it all the ways and back and going to just Keep on Reading.
I have always loved comics, and I have I can. I love comics to bits, may the comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and hope always to love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics, Diamond Comics, or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I just want to Keep on Reading.
I have always loved comics, and I have I can. I love comics to bits, may the comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and hope always to love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics, Diamond Comics, or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I just want to Keep on Reading.
May 5, 2020
Basic Plot: A mysterious figure is starting a war between conflicting factions in Chicago, and Harry Dresden struggles to figure out how to end the madness before the city descends into all out chaos.
The art is good, except for one complaint: the female characters all look way too similar. Murphy and Molly have the same facial structure and body type. Yes, Molly has her hair color and piercings, but those are dressing. It's lazy art. The story was ok, but it felt, for lack of a better term, chaotic. It was drawn out longer than needed and it didn't fully engage me. Lots of anger and no real emotional connection. It was decent, but not terribly memorable.
The art is good, except for one complaint: the female characters all look way too similar. Murphy and Molly have the same facial structure and body type. Yes, Molly has her hair color and piercings, but those are dressing. It's lazy art. The story was ok, but it felt, for lack of a better term, chaotic. It was drawn out longer than needed and it didn't fully engage me. Lots of anger and no real emotional connection. It was decent, but not terribly memorable.
November 4, 2019
Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Wild Card is the sixth Dresden Files graphic novel. According to Jim Butcher’s website, the story is set between Small Favor and Turn Coat in the greater series story arc. In this one, we have a mysterious and powerful entity who is trying to pit Chicago’s most prominent factions against each other. He has murdered two women in an attack meant to look like it was perpetrated by White Court vampires, and when one of their own is also attacked, the cops are out to kick some vampire butts. Then two vampires are killed, leaving their leader, Lara Wraith, believing it was John Marcone. Meanwhile one of Marcone’s lackeys is found dead, supposedly at the hands of the cops. All of this leads to a fast-brewing civil war that will tear the city apart it Harry can’t find the culprit and put a stop to it.
I enjoyed the story for the way that it brings together a number of characters from the Dresden universe who must manage to put aside their differences to take on a common enemy. This is no small order for our wizard PI, Harry Dresden, who is the only one who can talk sense into the leaders of the various factions, and ultimately he’s also the one to defeat their enemy, although not in his typical flashy fashion full of things that go boom. Some of the characters are ones who’ve been a part of the series for a while, and others are new to this graphic novel format. Harry’s brother, Thomas; his good friend and CPD cop, Karrin Murphy; and his apprentice, Molly, act as his closest allies and have all been seen before in illustration. Murphy’s partner, Rawlins, and ME Butters I’m pretty sure are new to this format, making it interesting to see the artist’s concepts of them. In the frenemy camp, Marcone was seen in the previous graphic novel, Down Town, but I don’t believe that Lara Wraith has been in one of these books before and neither has Harry’s fairy godmother, Lea. Then there’s our evil villain who I can’t really say much about because giving away his identity is a huge spoiler. It made for a very well-rounded cast. I also enjoyed the couple of scenes that are written from Murphy’s POV, another first in the series. It was nice to get a little bit of insight into her past.
Most of the illustrations are done by Carlos Gomez who has worked on previous Dresden Files graphic novels, although according to the credits, Sean Izaakse worked on Issue 4. Their styles match closely enough that I didn’t find the transition jarring in any way. For the most part, I liked the artwork, although I have a few minor quibbles. I’m still not a fan of the way that Thomas is portrayed. As illustrated, he’s just not that attractive to me, considering that he’s always been described as impossibly beautiful. I also thought that Murphy and Molly looked a little to much alike in their facial features. The only way I was able to tell them apart is by Molly’s colorful hair and piercings. The last thing is that I feel like the female characters are a bit over-sexualized. However, I realize that this sadly is often par for the course in comics. Otherwise, this was a well-written and nicely illustrated book, that I very much enjoyed.
"4.5 stars" Wild Card is the sixth Dresden Files graphic novel. According to Jim Butcher’s website, the story is set between Small Favor and Turn Coat in the greater series story arc. In this one, we have a mysterious and powerful entity who is trying to pit Chicago’s most prominent factions against each other. He has murdered two women in an attack meant to look like it was perpetrated by White Court vampires, and when one of their own is also attacked, the cops are out to kick some vampire butts. Then two vampires are killed, leaving their leader, Lara Wraith, believing it was John Marcone. Meanwhile one of Marcone’s lackeys is found dead, supposedly at the hands of the cops. All of this leads to a fast-brewing civil war that will tear the city apart it Harry can’t find the culprit and put a stop to it.
I enjoyed the story for the way that it brings together a number of characters from the Dresden universe who must manage to put aside their differences to take on a common enemy. This is no small order for our wizard PI, Harry Dresden, who is the only one who can talk sense into the leaders of the various factions, and ultimately he’s also the one to defeat their enemy, although not in his typical flashy fashion full of things that go boom. Some of the characters are ones who’ve been a part of the series for a while, and others are new to this graphic novel format. Harry’s brother, Thomas; his good friend and CPD cop, Karrin Murphy; and his apprentice, Molly, act as his closest allies and have all been seen before in illustration. Murphy’s partner, Rawlins, and ME Butters I’m pretty sure are new to this format, making it interesting to see the artist’s concepts of them. In the frenemy camp, Marcone was seen in the previous graphic novel, Down Town, but I don’t believe that Lara Wraith has been in one of these books before and neither has Harry’s fairy godmother, Lea. Then there’s our evil villain who I can’t really say much about because giving away his identity is a huge spoiler. It made for a very well-rounded cast. I also enjoyed the couple of scenes that are written from Murphy’s POV, another first in the series. It was nice to get a little bit of insight into her past.
Most of the illustrations are done by Carlos Gomez who has worked on previous Dresden Files graphic novels, although according to the credits, Sean Izaakse worked on Issue 4. Their styles match closely enough that I didn’t find the transition jarring in any way. For the most part, I liked the artwork, although I have a few minor quibbles. I’m still not a fan of the way that Thomas is portrayed. As illustrated, he’s just not that attractive to me, considering that he’s always been described as impossibly beautiful. I also thought that Murphy and Molly looked a little to much alike in their facial features. The only way I was able to tell them apart is by Molly’s colorful hair and piercings. The last thing is that I feel like the female characters are a bit over-sexualized. However, I realize that this sadly is often par for the course in comics. Otherwise, this was a well-written and nicely illustrated book, that I very much enjoyed.
September 18, 2016
Thanks to net galley.com, Jim Butcher, Mark Powers, Diamond Book Distributors, and Dynamite Entertainment for the advance PDF copy for my review.
Let me note that this one has been previously released as a 6 part serial and now getting released as a omnibus hardcover.
I don't read many graphic novels, but I do like the change of pace from a traditional book and seem to like the supernatural stuff the better in this format.
I've had several co-workers and friends recommend reading Jim Butcher in the past. So when I saw this one available as a read now on net galley, figured why not give it a try and totally enjoyed it.
I found Wild Card to be a great introduction to Jim Butcher's character Harry Dresden, definitely want to read more of his Dresden Files novels and like the good verse evil theme. I liked Harry's character, also Molly Murphy, Thomas, Lara and Butters.
Definitely give it a try, you might end up liking it like I did.
Let me note that this one has been previously released as a 6 part serial and now getting released as a omnibus hardcover.
I don't read many graphic novels, but I do like the change of pace from a traditional book and seem to like the supernatural stuff the better in this format.
I've had several co-workers and friends recommend reading Jim Butcher in the past. So when I saw this one available as a read now on net galley, figured why not give it a try and totally enjoyed it.
I found Wild Card to be a great introduction to Jim Butcher's character Harry Dresden, definitely want to read more of his Dresden Files novels and like the good verse evil theme. I liked Harry's character, also Molly Murphy, Thomas, Lara and Butters.
Definitely give it a try, you might end up liking it like I did.
December 23, 2016
3.5 stars
I liked this more than the last Dresden Files graphic novel I read. Murphy was more involved in the story, and that was a definite improvement. The villain was more interesting too.
I didn't picture Thomas as built like a linebacker when I read the novels, but that's a pretty minor complaint compared to my previous ones about the depiction of the female characters, especially Molly. At least Thomas was fully dressed.
Guess I'll stick around and see how the next one is.
I liked this more than the last Dresden Files graphic novel I read. Murphy was more involved in the story, and that was a definite improvement. The villain was more interesting too.
I didn't picture Thomas as built like a linebacker when I read the novels, but that's a pretty minor complaint compared to my previous ones about the depiction of the female characters, especially Molly. At least Thomas was fully dressed.
Guess I'll stick around and see how the next one is.
October 9, 2016
Review crossposted from Reanne Reads.
I'm a big Dresden Files fan, but the graphic novels have been hit-or-miss for me. This one was a miss.
I'm a big Dresden Files fan, but the graphic novels have been hit-or-miss for me. This one was a miss.
September 24, 2025
Definitely goofier than the novels. But l enjoyed the Gil Kane-like art and the story was enjoyable. Takes place after White Night
February 12, 2018
An extra star for introducing a fun, quirky new villain. A lot of reviewers were disappointed by the ending, but not every solution is going to involve explosions. I think trying to do this story as a graphic novel meant that Butcher couldn't build up the ending like he would have liked to, to make it feel more satisfying & a bit less like random chance. We finally get to see Butters and Harry's godmother, Leanansidhe, too.
Harry tries to prevent a war that's brewing between the White Court vampires, Johnny Marcone's mobsters, and the police force...something that would definitely tear the city of Chicago apart & result in a lot of innocent deaths. But who is orchestrating the mysterious attacks that seem to be blamed on one of the three factions?
It follows Butcher's standard template: some big problem is brewing, Harry gets the stuffing pounded out of him, time is running out, but he somehow manages to pull it off and save the day. It's what we like & it keeps us coming back for more. I don't have a problem with that.
What I do have a problem with is the Esher Girl illustrations. The skin tight clothing can be excused because this IS a succubus, but we really need to educate illustrators on the human form.
If this doesn't look strange to you, it's because you've become used to it. Go and look at some of the work on Escher Girls where they're fighting the good fight against ridiculous T&A illustrations & sculptures. It's shocking what all is out there, and how we have become desensitized to it.
If you're a fan of the Dresden Files, go ahead & pick up this graphic novel.
Harry tries to prevent a war that's brewing between the White Court vampires, Johnny Marcone's mobsters, and the police force...something that would definitely tear the city of Chicago apart & result in a lot of innocent deaths. But who is orchestrating the mysterious attacks that seem to be blamed on one of the three factions?
It follows Butcher's standard template: some big problem is brewing, Harry gets the stuffing pounded out of him, time is running out, but he somehow manages to pull it off and save the day. It's what we like & it keeps us coming back for more. I don't have a problem with that.
What I do have a problem with is the Esher Girl illustrations. The skin tight clothing can be excused because this IS a succubus, but we really need to educate illustrators on the human form.
If this doesn't look strange to you, it's because you've become used to it. Go and look at some of the work on Escher Girls where they're fighting the good fight against ridiculous T&A illustrations & sculptures. It's shocking what all is out there, and how we have become desensitized to it.
If you're a fan of the Dresden Files, go ahead & pick up this graphic novel.
September 11, 2016
Another good Harry Dresden graphic novel in which Harry finds himself trying to convince three warring factions to work with him to defeat a common enemy.
When two young women turn up dead with the life sucked out of them, Harry knows that this goes beyond normal everyday magic occurrences. Something or someone is unleashing horror and violence on the streets of Chicago and Harry needs to stop this.
As Harry begins to investigate he realises that this is no ordinary foe. It is something very dark and powerful, and something or someone he hasn't met before. This dark foe is sowing the seeds of violence amongst the city's factions of power and Harry realises that if he doesn't bring these factions together, civilisation as we know it will come to an end and violence and magic will reign free.
And so the battles begin as Harry and his reluctant allies do their best to defeat an undefeatable foe.
As with other books in this series we get to see Harry using his magic and his wits to stay ahead. The artwork is good and I liked the fact that the story is easy to follow and doesn't have too much text. I did think the ending was a bit of an anti climax but it was on ok ending. It is a good paced story with lots of action from secondary characters, a murderous villain and some well drawn battles. I also enjoyed the element of suspense and the hope that Harry will prevent the villain from succeeding.
A good one for all Harry Dresden fans.
Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
When two young women turn up dead with the life sucked out of them, Harry knows that this goes beyond normal everyday magic occurrences. Something or someone is unleashing horror and violence on the streets of Chicago and Harry needs to stop this.
As Harry begins to investigate he realises that this is no ordinary foe. It is something very dark and powerful, and something or someone he hasn't met before. This dark foe is sowing the seeds of violence amongst the city's factions of power and Harry realises that if he doesn't bring these factions together, civilisation as we know it will come to an end and violence and magic will reign free.
And so the battles begin as Harry and his reluctant allies do their best to defeat an undefeatable foe.
As with other books in this series we get to see Harry using his magic and his wits to stay ahead. The artwork is good and I liked the fact that the story is easy to follow and doesn't have too much text. I did think the ending was a bit of an anti climax but it was on ok ending. It is a good paced story with lots of action from secondary characters, a murderous villain and some well drawn battles. I also enjoyed the element of suspense and the hope that Harry will prevent the villain from succeeding.
A good one for all Harry Dresden fans.
Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 24, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
This is the first of the Dresden Files that I have ever read, though I have been meaning to read Storm Front for ages now. That being said this book can be read as a standalone, at least according to me. There are no spoilers about previous books (or maybe there are and I just don’t know they’re spoilers) but all the characters are introduced in a way that you know their purpose and place in the story.
This was a pretty quick read, the story was simple and straightforward. There is now mystery because the villain is introduced right from page one. Personally, I quite enjoyed the graphics, though I haven’t a lot of experience in reading graphic novels. Maybe this is why I thought it was weird that all the female characters were so crazily proportioned and dressed in far less than the men?
I can deal though. Not bad but nothing spectacular. If you want something quick and light I recommend this. 3.5 star read for me which I’m rounding up to 4.
This is the first of the Dresden Files that I have ever read, though I have been meaning to read Storm Front for ages now. That being said this book can be read as a standalone, at least according to me. There are no spoilers about previous books (or maybe there are and I just don’t know they’re spoilers) but all the characters are introduced in a way that you know their purpose and place in the story.
This was a pretty quick read, the story was simple and straightforward. There is now mystery because the villain is introduced right from page one. Personally, I quite enjoyed the graphics, though I haven’t a lot of experience in reading graphic novels. Maybe this is why I thought it was weird that all the female characters were so crazily proportioned and dressed in far less than the men?
I can deal though. Not bad but nothing spectacular. If you want something quick and light I recommend this. 3.5 star read for me which I’m rounding up to 4.
September 29, 2016
This collection of six comic issues is another new story to the Dresden universe. It falls between Small Favor and Turn Coat time wise so there are some spoilers if you are new to the series. The story was very basic and I was a bit surprised that as each faction was being played against one another they didn’t seem open to that fact very early in the scheme of things. For such a quick story almost every big gun in the area has a part in the book. How to deal with the attacks gets wrapped in the final issue a bit quickly. My only real problem with the comics is the art makes almost look much the same.
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
August 14, 2025
3.5 Stars
So far, this is the weakest of the series; but still entertaining as only Harry can be.
Someone or something is creating conflict amongst the powers of Chicago. Marcone and the White Court try to settle their differences violently.
So far, this is the weakest of the series; but still entertaining as only Harry can be.
Someone or something is creating conflict amongst the powers of Chicago. Marcone and the White Court try to settle their differences violently.
August 31, 2017
'Jim Butcher's Dresden Files: Wild Card' by Jim Butcher with art by Mark Powers is the 6th Dresden Files graphic novel, and it might be my favorite in the series so far. This story takes place after the White Night novel.
A double murder has happened, and Harry Dresden gets drawn into a case that may cause a civil war between the White Court of vampires and the city's main crime boss,Johnny Marcone. Fortunately, Harry has a sharp young apprentice in Molly Carpenter, a good frind on the police force in Karrin Murphy, and a half-brother named Thomas who is a vampire. He will need all these resources as well as a visit to his scary fairy Godmother to sort things out.
I'm a fan of the books and the graphic novels. It's great to see the characters in art, and the art here is rather good. The story holds up well, too. I've felt like sometimes the graphic novels have been a bit weak, but I liked this one a lot.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Dynamite Entertainment, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
A double murder has happened, and Harry Dresden gets drawn into a case that may cause a civil war between the White Court of vampires and the city's main crime boss,Johnny Marcone. Fortunately, Harry has a sharp young apprentice in Molly Carpenter, a good frind on the police force in Karrin Murphy, and a half-brother named Thomas who is a vampire. He will need all these resources as well as a visit to his scary fairy Godmother to sort things out.
I'm a fan of the books and the graphic novels. It's great to see the characters in art, and the art here is rather good. The story holds up well, too. I've felt like sometimes the graphic novels have been a bit weak, but I liked this one a lot.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Dynamite Entertainment, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
October 8, 2017
Another nice stop-gap until Butcher publishes the next novel in the series.
August 3, 2020
Can't wait to see how this plays out in a century.
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