I never want to stop reading this series. That is all. ( )

Cold Days is the fourteenth full-length novel in Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files series. In this one, Harry is newly returned from the dead, so to speak, and must finally take up the mantle of the Winter Knight as he agreed to in exchange for Mab’s help saving his daughter in Changes. However, Mab’s first order for Harry is to kill the Winter Lady, her own daughter, Maeve, a seemingly impossible task since Maeve is immortal. The order becomes further complicated, when he’s led to believe that Mab is the one who poses the real threat. Not quite knowing how to announce to his friends and family that he’s back from the great beyond and fearing that the power of Winter within him may pose a danger to them, Harry decides to go it alone. But that doesn’t last long when they gradually start to find him. He also quickly realizes that the task is too large for just one person, when he’s made aware of an unfathomable source of magic that is about to be unleashed, which will cause an event of apocalyptic proportions, destroying all of Chicago and possibly a large part of the country as well. Harry and his allies have less than two days to figure out who’s telling the truth and prevent this catastrophe, which will also free some extremely dangerous inmates from a supernatural prison that Harry never knew existed, and to do so, they’ll also have to defeat some really “big bads” who aren’t of this world.

After seemingly being murdered at the end of Changes, Harry spent the entirety of the last book, Ghost Story, basically as a ghost. But as it turn out, he was only mostly dead, his spirit roaming while his body was on supernatural life support. He was brought back from the brink, partly by Mab who wasn’t about to lose her new Winter Knight, and partly by the power of Demonreach, the hidden island with which Harry has a special connection. He spends the first chapter of Cold Days in Arctis Tor being rehabbed by a young human woman named Sarissa, and then by Mab herself who tests him every day by repeatedly trying to kill him, after which he’s finally deemed fit to return the mortal world. Of course, he does so with Mab’s orders, but he isn’t sure yet if he’s going to comply. At first, because of the dangers his new powers might pose, he goes with the lone wolf routine, but one by one his friends and family begin to find him, all of them proving that they’re quite forgiving and happy to see him alive and well. When his task is complicated by new revelations regarding supernatural enemies Harry hadn’t known about before, it also quickly becomes apparent that it will be impossible to accomplish on his own in such a short time. Fairies can’t lie when asked a direct question, yet it appears that someone isn’t being entirely truthful, so he must figure out what’s actually going on and try to save the day before really bad things start to happen that will put the lives of everyone in Chicago and beyond in jeopardy.

Harry is changed by Winter in this book and even more powerful than he was before, but all that power comes with a price. Winter thoroughly corrupted the last knight, something Harry is keenly aware of, and he fears that it could do the same to him. He’s always more or less been the Boy Scout, trying to do the right thing. That being the case, I have to admit that a few of the things Winter’s power makes him consider doing made me squirm a little, but I was happy that he was able to beat it back and remain true to himself, at least so far. My hope is that, moving forward, he’ll either find a way to continue to do so, or that he’ll find a way to get rid of Winter before it takes over.

As always, Harry shares his adventures with his Scooby Gang. His apprentice, Molly, has continued her training in his absence, and has become a pretty powerful wizard in her own right. I love her new digs that she earned from her endeavors in the previous novella, “Bombshells,” and some significant changes are afoot for her in this book. Harry’s brother, Thomas, is still one of his most trusted allies, and I enjoyed the goofy, brotherly affection they share in this story. Thomas’s beloved, Justine, gets herself kidnapped, along with a few others, and ends up along for the ride in the finale. Butters and Andi are among that group as well. Butters continues to reluctantly patch up supernatural wounds, while also being the new keeper of Bob, who helps Harry figure out some things in the beginning. Mac, owner of the pub that’s neutral ground for supernaturals, is also a kidnap victim and a participant in the final battle. We learn that he’s not all he seems, but what exactly he is, he’s being very tight-lipped about. Of course, Karrin is there by Harry’s side as well, bravely battling as always. However, I have to say that I’m getting a little frustrated by the author continuing to tease a possible relationship between these two. They take a tiny step in the right direction, but while they aren’t completely ruling it out, neither are they embracing it either. Little Toot-Toot and his Za Lord’s army are pretty important players, too, and they get to do battle against some evil little folk, which also leads to the introduction of a new pixie who could be interesting. Harry’s loyal dog, Mouse, goes into battle with him again. Demonreach has become a character unto itself, and the island’s connection to Harry is deepened in this book. We’re introduced to Sarissa who aids in Harry’s recovery and who isn’t all that she seems. There are also potential antagonists aplenty as Harry must figure out who amongst the queens and ladies of Fairy can be trusted and finds a frenemy in Fix, the Summer Knight. I was a little disappointed by the death of one supporting character who I’d always kind of liked and who seemed to have been led astray. But otherwise, it was a great lineup of characters and I look forward to seeing all of them in future books.

Overall, Cold Days was a fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed, definitely one of the best in the series. After him playing a ghost in the last book, it was great having Harry back in the land of the living, doing what he does best. It was interesting seeing all the new powers that the mantle of Winter has given him even though he’s using them sparingly in an effort to keep from turning evil. I’m very intrigued to find out where things go for him in that respect. The narrative of this book is built beautifully with Harry no sooner recovering than he’s thrust into a major problem. As he investigates, things start going downhill for him as he learns more and more about why Mab has made her request of him. Then of course, he must figure out how to defeat all the evil forces that have aligned against him in order to save not only himself and his friends, but all of Chicago and beyond. The Outsiders were an interesting addition to the series. They’ve apparently been there in some capacity from early on, but we actually get to see just how powerful they are and what things are like behind the scenes in the Nevernever. There are many plot points from past books that come into play in this one that impressed me with how seamlessly they’re woven together. Many exciting things happen in this book that propel the series story arc forward, but there’s at least one thing that’s left hanging for Harry to overcome in a future book. All this makes me eagerly look forward to seeing what’s next for our intrepid wizard. ( )

Cold Days, the fourteenth entry in to The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher, is a fresh breath of pure winter air after Ghost Story. As hinted at by the title, this is all about Harry learning what it means to be the Winter Knight. Being the Winter Knight definitely has it's challenges. First Harry has to survive Mab's idea of proper training, then survive the Winter Court's idea of proper court politics, followed by surviving the fight for control of the Mantle itself and, if that wasn't enough, finally survive the first job Mab gives Harry in his new role: kill an immortal.

Now this is what a Dresden novel is supposed to be like! Fast paced and funny, with some tricky situations for Harry to navigate as he adjusts his thinking to the additional responsibility he's taken on. And lots and lots of action. While I found Harry's time in the Winter Court interesting, I'm glad it didn't last too long and we were back to Chicago fairly quickly. I felt bad for Harry having to basically attempt to revive/renew many old relationships that were harmed from actions of the previous two books. At the same time, because of this, the story continues to allow these characters to grow and deepen with complexity. As I think back to how far Harry has come from Storm Front, I'm blown away at his growth while also retaining his core values after all he's gone through.

I'm also impressed with how well Butcher has planned out his series. Story threads that were started at the very beginning of the series are beginning to tie together and give a fuller view of things that were only hinted at previously. Being given new insights into what's been moving behind the scenes also allows for new story arcs to start. I have so many thoughts and questions. All I know is I'm excited to see where this is all heading. ( )

Although I felt that Ghost Stories would have made a fine ending to the tale of Dresden, minus the last little bit of course, Cold Days is still an excellent read. If Jim Butcher can keep up the quality, I'll keep reading. ( )

It was an interesting addition to the series. You can really tell that all the stuff in his life is getting to Harry.

Still a bit too chauvinistic for me, and I think it wins out because I'm more open to things than I was back when I started reading the series. I loved the use of Robert Frost's "Fire and Ice" (yes, the ironies are endless), and "We Will Rock You", which I actually got from the first line of onomatopoeia (yes, I am oddly proud of this).

On the other hand, I didn't find this one as funny as the others. There were some good laughs, but they were few and far between.

I think Butcher is stacking his deck, and I don't like how he's doing it. And I can't understand why.

There were some interesting twists in here. But then, there always are.

If you like the series, then keep reading. It's worth the time. If you haven't read the series... go find something else to read. ( )

I can't not finish the series. I do feel like we've reached the point where everything's so Epic Battle that I lose interest a little. Oh for a series that lowers the stakes sometimes. ( )

Woah! ( )

460 ( )

The thing I love about Jim Butcher is that I can count on him. I've never read a book of his I didn't like, and I've read all of them. The publication of this latest installment in The Dresden Files was pushed back because the author wanted to create something really good instead of just crank out something mediocre to meet a deadline and make money faster. I'm glad he takes pride in his work-it was worth the wait. Everything I've come to love about this series was here: great characters, tons of action, and large doses of humor and heart.

There were a lot of references to several past books, and I'm feeling the need to re-read the series over the next year as I wait for the next one. I'm glad he has plans for many more books. This is one series I don't want to end.

( )

Harry can be so frustrating! Classic Dresden who thinks he knows everything even when he doesn't.

The plot of Cold Days was solid, but some of the character interaction/dialog were a bit weak this time around.

I'm not sure there's enough world development to build another 8 books from, but it's getting there. Sometimes miss the creature feature formula of the earlier books. ( )

Excellent. Lots of twists and turns, snark, reunions, and Star Wars/Princess Bride and other popular sci-fi references. Can't wait for book 15. ( )

I had such a good time with this book! I have been having a fantastic time re-reading this amazing series. I spaced out my re-reads of the early books in the series but I have really picked up the pace with these later books because the stakes are higher and I cannot wait to read more. I have now read the first 14 books in the series twice and I care about Harry and his ragtag group of friends so when things look bad for them, I need answers as soon as possible.

Harry’s bargain with Mab that he made a couple of books ago is now in full effect. Harry is now serving Mab as the Winter Knight. After he is healthy enough to fulfill his duties, Mab gives him his first task and it seems to be almost impossible. Since Harry has never been one to follow orders blindly, he starts trying to figure out what is really going on and what his next move should really be. He is reunited with some of the friends that he has come to depend on like Molly, Thomas, Karrin, and Butters.

This book had all of the action and excitement that I have come to expect from the series. There were even some pretty big surprises. (Yes, I was surprised even though I have read this book before. In my defense, it has been 9 years since my last read and my memory isn’t what it used to be.) We get to see some of Harry’s insecurities and he once again proves just how hard he is willing to fight when he needs to. This was a book that I couldn’t wait to read and one I didn’t want to put down once I started.

James Marsters is Harry Dresden. I couldn’t imagine experiencing this story any other way now that I have had the privilege of listening to Mr. Marsters read this series. He brings so much emotion to the story and I love the voices that he uses for the various characters.

I would highly recommend this book to others. This is a series that really should be read in order so you wouldn’t want to start with this book. If you have made it this far into the series, you will probably be just as happy with this book as I was. I cannot wait to pick up the next book in the series! ( )

I'm glad I could revisit "Cold Days" because there is a lot to unpack. There are many changes, including Dresden. I feel overwhelmed. It is a pivotal book and is a "must-read." ( )

Every book gets better and deeper into the lore adn this one is no exception. I have so many questions and my mind is so blown right now. Wow ( )

My mind is blown! Too many spoilery things to mention, but suffice to say that this book was outstanding! ( )

Fast paced, fun cast of characters built up over many books. Locations, characters and events put in place in other books come the fore. Hints at new dangers coming over the horizon for other books yet to be written but still a self-contained story with the immediate plot threads handled by the last page. Not Shakespeare or War and Peace but well constructed, entertaining and satisfying as a story. ( )

Because of availability, I read this one after book #15. Hoe-Lee Smokes! The series continues to keep me interested with new and surprising twists.

In Cold Days, we find out there’s something — or several somethings — bigger and badder than Mab. Mab may actually have a softer side. And Molly becomes sidhe.

Through it all, Dresden learns to live with his inner Winter Knight while trying to unravel why Mab’s first order to him is to kill the immortal Maeve. Lots of stuff I never saw coming, but that makes sense in the story laid out by Butcher.

Oh, and /Santa/ goes on the Wild Hunt with the Erlking? What a world! ( )

Dresden is remarkably good at weaseling his way out of deals he should never have gotten himself into in the first place. This time around though? His number is up. He has to work for Mab.

Mab first job for her new Knight? Kill Maeve.

All righty then.

Crazy scene: Mab throws Dresden a birthday party. In a huge scale model of his old apartment, made of ice. One thing you can say for the Fae, when they go all in, they really go all in.

Crazy scene: Dresden floats a boat off the bottom of Lake Chicago by freezing a large chunk of ice. He comes out of it coated with frost. He's got some serious new oomph going on and it's kind of terrifying.

Crazy scene: Dresden learns about the 'gate' part of the Gatekeeper's job. He learns more about the outsiders than he ever wanted to know. He learns more about Winter's role in all this (and thus his own). He learns exactly what it means to have claimed Demonreach. He starts to learn about how it's all related. He starts to learn who the real enemy is... The Dresdenverse is getting bigger.

And then the ending. Well that was intense. We have new Summer and Winter Ladies. The latter of which is Molly...

The next few books are going to be even more interesting.

(I feel like I say that a lot with Dresden...)
( )

Just read for the third time.

Yep. Still one of the best of the Dresden books.

[This review is from when it first came out. I'm re-reading in May, 2014 before I read "Skin Game"]

I've been reading the Dresden books all along, and they are one of only three series/authors I buy in hardback. That said, the last few books didn't do all that much for me, despite the high drama. This one, on the other hand, I liked very, very much. Maybe it was having Harry get back into his groove after all the upheavals, maybe it was the presence of the Sidhe, who I enjoy. . . I don't know. It's probably a very personal, subjective response.

All I can say is that I'm glad I bought it and I don't regret buying it in hardback, when it was first released, even though it took me a couple of months to open it and start reading. ( )

In my opinion, Butcher is writing the Dresden Files in arcs.

The first arc, I would say, was an introduction to the world of Dresden; introducing allies, enemies, rules, restrictions- and ends with Harry taking on an apprentice.

The second is Harry-as-mature-wizard, and runs through the aptly titled Changes. Ghost Story is something of a bridge/amendment/loose ends novel in that regard.

This opens up the next phase, Harry-as-Winter-Knight. No longer truly a PI, Harry has been released from Mab's . .fatalistic . . take on physical therapy and is being unleashed (unsheathed) by Mab to resolve her unfinished business. His first task: Slay an immortal within 24 hours.

This book is highly compressed when viewed from outside, even for the Dresden files. Harry's skills- both physical and magical- have been sharpened by Mab but he has no tools and no preparation. Forced to rely on his native intuition, the power of the Mantle, and battling against the compulsions of the Winter Mantle, Harry must decide which of the Faerie Queens is lying- and lying shouldn't be possible for the Sidhe. Whichever one is, he must slay- and hopefully survive. Once he figures out the trivial details like how.

This book begins laying groundwork for Butcher's self-described Big Apocalyptic Trilogy. We find out some of the rules that govern mantles and immortals, and get a look into how the Mantle tries to compel its bearer by sharpening some of their instincts and desires. All while Harry is dodging Faerie assassins and trying to figure out if Mab herself has lost her mind.

One of the better Dresden books in my opinion- Butcher was firing on all cylinders with this one. ( )

Wow. Now the long wait until book 15 comes out. :( ( )

I really liked this one but then again I'm a sucker for Harry Dresden. And of course now I have to wait impatiently for the next one. Humph. Butcher and Rothfuss can sit on my list of write the next book faster! ( )

Damn. Damn you Jim. I loved it but damn.

This really was a excellent episode in the series. We really aren't returning to the status quo are we.

James Marsters was awesome as usual. I really hope schedules are such that we don't get any more fill in readers. ( )

More chaotic than I was expecting, and a connect all the things. Fun fluff. ( )

Harry Dresden is transforming from Wizard for Hire to Winter Knight. Even dying didn't save him from keeping his promise to Queen Mab. When you give your word to an immortal, it's a bit difficult to weasel out of it. So, Harry has to fulfill his new role.....but he chooses to do it on his own terms. Or at least try. He has to become the Winter Knight without letting the power lead him to become evil. And Mab isn't going to make things easy. She immediately orders him to kill someone....someone he shouldn't be able to kill. An immortal. He learns quickly that his new job is dangerous....and might take away what little he has left....his family, his friends and his soul.

I love this series! Dresden mixes magic, humor, fantasy and lots of gritty action. Every story has him facing new adversaries and twisty plots. This time he comes up against several immortal beings, each with their own agenda. Every time I thought I had the twists figured out.....the story would zing off in another direction. Loved it! There's a lot going on in this 14th book in the Dresden Files series....and lots of characters, new and old, join in....everyone from Santa Claus to the Erlking is in this one!

My favorite scene in this book is a great chase and fight involving the Wild Hunt, a horde of supernatural fae and magically disguised humans. The hunt is after Dresden! The scene was just awesome and filled with action! I wish they would make this series into a series of movies or a television show that actually does justice to the books. I would LOVE to see the Wild Hunt in action on the screen!

I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by James Marsters, the audio from Recorded Books is just under 19 hours long. Marsters reads with great style, hitting the characters' different personalities perfectly. He even manages to add in Dresden's signature sarcastic snarkiness. Great audio experience!

Another great book in the Dresden Files series. I'm almost caught up. I have slowly read this series over the last few years because Butcher hit a bit of a delay in his writing and hasn't released book #15, Peace Talks. It's a few years late... And I hate cliffhanger endings. So I have been moseying my way through Dresden, hoping to not catch up before the new book comes out. One book left -- Skin Games. I will read Skin Games....then backtrack and read Dresden short stories....hopefully, that will get me through the time left until Peace Talks comes out. Or at least has a release date.

C'mon Jim....don't leave me hangin' for very long! :) I can't fault him for being late....he had a bit of a snag in his personal life. And family, real life, kids, relationships always take precedence. I (and the other Dresden fans) can wait. I really look forward to reading the new book with my hubby though! He rushed through the series and has been waiting on me while I just tiptoed through the tulips because I didn't want to catch up before the next book..... It's really hard to avoid hearing spoilers when your significant other is several books ahead...ha ha.

On to the next! Skin Game! ( )