Captain Specificity

This books starts about a month after the Battle of Chicago, and Harry isn't doing very well, mentally or physically. Old friends and acquaintances are met once again through the story, helping Harry, and being helped by Harry.

Old enemies and new also visit, sometimes blurring the lines between ally and enemy, moving in ways that Harry doesn't understand. One major visitor is Lara Raith, at the request of Winter, they interact regularly, and familiarly.

Without including any spoilers, or major spoilers at least, Butcher does a masterful job of squaring up some loose ends, and introducing new variables to the epic shitshow that is Harry Dresden's life. The last few chapters are an explosive example of the potential true power of Harry Dresden and Winter itself.

This first book of a series, in an author new to me, was a pleasant surprise of excellence.

Michael is an ambassador from an alien organization come to Earth to help uplift humanity, improve lives, and protect from an ancient Enemy whose sites have been set upon us. The compassion used to deal with the political upheaval of his announcement, and skepticism received at his claims makes him one of the best characters I've read. The supporting cast of characters, both aligned and not, are also excellently written, interesting, and great to read about. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.