Skin Game by Jim Butcher Is In Consideration For My Favorite Dresden Files Book...How Does He Do It?

[@mikesbookreviews]

Hey bookworms! Thanks for taking this ride with me as I speed ran the series in time for Peace Talks. You've made it a blast. Thank you!

[@UltaFlame]

Welcome to being current!

[@nemoonbekend2483]

We enjoyed it too. Well done, and thanks.

[@Jaxxofrune]

@@UltaFlame He's actually already ahead. He's never been current in Dresden... not a day in his life. Rotflmao

[@mkgnlgt]

Just happy you’ve read and enjoyed the books, Dresden Files is just so awesome, thanks one last time for the great reviews!

[@leonstrand329]

Fun fact, so, Jim mentioned that nicodemus will appear every 5 books

[@Khazorhoth]

Michael calmly stating "I'm not the Carpenter that set the standard" as he walks to his gate has stuck with me for years man

[@nemoonbekend2483]

Michael's the real deal.

[@docholliday9741]

No joke, when finding myself in a rough spot or making a hard decision, I regularly think of Michael Carpenter. I love all of the characters on Harry’s team but Michael is the paragon of virtue I most admire and try to live up to

[@MilkshakeEnthusiast1992]

Heck yeah. Michael is by far my favorite character. I really like Harry but Michael is one of those side characters that outshine the lead

[@HandlesAreStupid2025]

@@docholliday9741 *Jesus

[@elis.5350]

As a Christian that line hit me in the soul and I legit pumped my fist. Not only the understanding of what God asks from his followers but the ease in which he said it even though he was given a full confirmation from a arch angel that he had done his duty to the Lord and was going to Heaven and not doing this wouldn't affect that. You've have the biblical parallel when Michael calls Uriel a friend and the shock Uriel feels hearing it, practically a reverse mirror of the Lord talking to Moses as a friend. I love how Jim Butcher gives all faiths and mythology a pretty even amount of weight and legitimacy yet when it comes to the Christian God and his artifacts/servants (and you can argue it's because of the amount of people putting faith into it) there is a certain amount of solidity behind the power that things like the Fey lack. Evidence is that Churches and Knights of the Cross are effective on anything supernatural as long as they are evil/hostile. Don't need iron, not affected by Thresholds, doesn't seem to be affected by magic all that matters is it's rules are followed and the knight stays faithful. Harry refers to God as the Almighty and believes in him but doesn't follow because he believes God wouldn't want anything to do with him or that he would to give up his Wizard nature to follow him.

[@Raptor3k]

For me, it was Chapter 20. "I think I need help," I heard myself whisper, voice little more than a rasp. "I think I'm lost." There was no hesitation in his answer or in his deep, gentle voice. "Come in," my friend said. I hadn't read any of the side story content at that point of my first reading, Michael was mentioned in passing, but he wasn't present for 5 books. If anyone can pull Harry out of his literal lowest point, it's Michael Carpenter. The impact felt so much better not reading those side stories, but they are worth the read.

[@7Seraphem7]

yeah, that is just.. such a powerful scene. The whole of it, right from "A good man answered the door."

[@jamesmyles4540]

Reading the short stories in order that they fit in the overall story is somthing that should be saved for a second read through. Side jobs after changes and brief cases after skin game on a first read. Having finished peace talks there is some important stuff in there to the main story.

[@benjaminstout941]

I came away from that chapter 20 conversation with Michael saying damn, I needed to here that in my life.

[@blackjackbarron5315]

I always thought that Michael wasn't healed, he was "granted Uriel's grace" - Uriel's powers as an angel flowed into Michael, rendering Uriel human, and Michael well. When that ends/ended, it flows back into Uriel, and Michael is in his former state again.

[@WinnetouiriVamp1]

that's how I read it too, Murphy wouldn't be healed because what happened with Michael and Uriel was an exception

[@goudawgs]

Exactly. An angel wouldn't be able to heal Murphy do to her current condition being caused by a free choice she made. As Uriel put it, "That's a fair ball son". I don't remember what her actual condition was at the end of the game though. We know she had a broken knee and a dislocated shoulder, I don't believe any of the gunshots made it through her vest though. As far as we can tell wielding a sword of the cross doesn't make you magically healed.

[@andreamiller3578]

That's what I thought too.

[@orrinscott-stewart3641]

@@WinnetouiriVamp1 Exactly otherwise Michael wouldn't have needed the Grace and wouldnt have needed to retire after he got injured.

[@stumpy1146]

Yup, Murphy's injuries were a result of her choices. The angel's can't protect human's from themselves. It's also why Michael stayed injured after SF.

[@katherineweaver382]

Dude, that spoiler sucks. I'm so sorry for you! And congratulations on getting to the point that you got an ARC for Peace Talks. You shouldn't feel bad about not having to wait. I think it's great that your hard work has gotten you to the point of getting an ARC.

[@ptTeearms]

Glad you enjoyed the ride to this point! One of my favorite moments in this book was the conversation Harry has with Michael after his arm is broken. Michael is such an awesome character and touchstone for Harry. Since you have read Peace Talks, I suggest you go back and read the short stories, especially The Warrior, Day One, Zoo Day, and Cold Case!

[@robpoe8854]

The Christmas Eve microfiction is also very relevant

[@gregbergerson9380]

I am half way through Peace Talks and I have caught references to 5 short stories so far. Cant wait to see the videos for the short story collections :)

[@jtdarelli1871]

I think the most impressive thing about this book is that Jim managed to wait until almost the end of this book before making a Monty Python reference

[@some_guy9366]

Thank you for this series of videos. I just watched them back to back and they served as a great recap for a much loved series that I haven’t visited for 4-5 years. These videos got me so hyped that I decided to immediately start brief cases, peace talks and battle grounds even though I planned on reading project Hail Mary by Andy weir next.

[@EveryDayALittleDeath]

Skin Game is my personal favorite Dresden Files book. There's just so much stuff in it that appeals to me.

[@nemoonbekend2483]

It is maybe the overall best so far. All of Butcher's best qualities as a writer are on full display.

[@SunGawdRa]

Same.

[@aerythus]

Harry plans to play the players. He's learning.

[@jennayoung9811]

Same!

[@surpriseitsus9622]

Me too. I'm starting 16 tonight, so I had to find this review before heading in....

[@7Seraphem7]

"To crush Harry's head if it ever needs to be crushed" That..... yeah that is pretty accurate. Best part (From a shear laughing my ass off PoV) in this book was Murphy's reaction to Harry telling her what the Parasite was. No, Murphy cannot be healed by the Sword. Angels cannot undo the consequences of a mortal making a choice of their own free will. Uriel was able to temporarily heal Micheal through a loophole. He did not actually alter Micheal at all, or in anyway remove any of his free will or choices. He simply gave Micheal his Grace, and the Grace masked Micheal's injuries the way the Winter Mantel is masking Harry's broken back. I loved this book, it's just, a straight up Heist, but done with butcher's style and skill. Oh, as while the lightsaber thing was spoiled, still gotta love the first badass one liner from the new Sir Butters, is freaking "Mister, where I'm from, there is no try!"

[@andrewold3791]

Oh wow, Nicodemus is going to show up in book 20? Thanks for the spoiler! (kidding) I loved this book. The scene where Harry's lost, where he limps to the Carpenter house, and there's the line, 'And a good man opened the door' gets me every time. Love Michael as a character. I think this is the book where Nicodemus asks Michael how he has the power to do something, and Michael replies that he doesn't have power? Terrific.

[@Ry9022]

Huh, never thought about Harry having the Lance giving him the edge in the final fight. Also, something I really love about this book is the strategy Dresden employs to get Goodman Grey on his team and the communication system they worked out. Sucks that the Butters Lightsaber thing got spoiled. What's funny is that Butcher hinted at that in Ghost Stories, where Butters said he'd join in on training with the Einherjar once he got a functional lightsaber.

[@Mysicalgreenunicorn03]

The thing I loved about this is that it moves the story along but stands alone like early books. Fantastic book.

[@Philistine47]

*On **_Peace Talks_** length:* JB did an interview a couple of months ago, IIRC it was possibly the same time as the first announcement that _Battle Ground_ would also be published this year. He said the reason PT was so delayed, and BG was following it so closely, is that he originally tried to write them as one book. But the story was clunky and didn't fit together well, with a stark (and jarring) change in tone and focus near the midpoint, and his editor suggested that it read more like two separate books so maybe he should try rewriting it that way. So if PT isn't as long as previous entries, well, that could be why. Also! *Dumb Theory re: Karrin Murphy:* AFAIK JB has not stated the ages of most of the main characters, but we can make some educated guesses. At the start of _Storm Front,_ Murphy is already a police lieutenant and the head of a unit. And sure, that unit is "only" SI, a.k.a. the CPD's private Island of Broken Toys, but still - she's in a position which normally requires both a college degree and several years of advancing through the ranks, a combination which almost requires her to be at least in her 30s. (She's also been divorced twice, which given her family and religious background as well as her own stated attitudes, also points toward "probably over 30.") Let's be generous and say "early 30s." JB has been almost as coy with elapsed time as he has been with ages, but we can reasonably estimate that _Skin Game_ is roughly 15 years after _Storm Front,_ give or take a couple (certainly it's about 11 years after _Death Masks,_ the 5th book). Adding 15 years to our previous "early 30s" estimate for Murphy means she must be *at least* in her mid-40s, and may be pushing 50. Now I'm not trying to claim life is over at 50 (I'll be there myself in just a couple more years), but this does put her well beyond the age where most pro athletes are out of competition. Because after a while, it stops mattering how fit you are - your body starts slowing down. You rack up injuries more quickly and easily, and you heal from them more slowly... and less completely. It's just normal wear and tear, and people who use their bodies hard - people like pro athletes, or soldiers, or Karrin Murphy - are _more_ susceptible to it, not less. The point is that Murphy was not going to be able to continue _physically_ throwing down with superhuman entities forever, not in a world where time passes and humans age. Her role in the story was going to have to change sooner or later: the sooner the better, from a plausibility standpoint. I think JB realized the same thing (but a lot sooner), and Murphy's injury is his excuse to take her off the front lines without having to kill her off. (And in hindsight, I suspect Michael's injury in _Small Favor_ was likely driven by a similar consideration.)

[@killbotprime]

I have no special insight into what goes on in JB's head (though I did see the same interview you watched--maybe the Daniel Greene one? Or the one sponsored by the publisher that the goddess Priscilla Spencer shared on her channel) so I can't say if you're right or wrong. I just wanted to take a second and tell you that I really like your assessment; it's well considered and nicely articulated and there were bits in there I hadn't thought of before. Nice work!

[@goaway3717]

Life isn't so much over after 50 - I'm over that mark by a few years. It's just that all the abuse you've put your body through calls a team meeting and decides to randomly punish you for the injuries you suffered over 20 years ago and just randomly start to hurt more. The old brain doesn't have the instant recall it once had (at least mine sure doesn't) - although I personally liken it to a badly fragmented hard drive from the 90's. It they ever invent a brain defrag process I'll buy it in an instant. I thought late 40's was bad, I didn't know how good I had it.

[@Xexanos]

"We are now at the same page guys" LIAR! You are ahead of us now :-P

[@TheRayfield77]

Perfect video! I'm about to start Peace Talks and it's been years since I last read Dresden. I needed some refreshers in a bad way. This was perfect, thank you.

[@nemoonbekend2483]

'Nuff said. This was a great review. I'll just add that what I think makes Jim Butcher's Dresden Files stand out so much in the "Urban Fantasy" sub-genre are his exemplary plotting (he always gives you a twist or a payoff if he writes something into the series), and just how masterfully he blends in so many disparate mythos. This one gave us everything from Faerie Queens to Greek Gods and Fallen/Arch-Angels to a crypto-critter from Native American folklore (who's traditional M.O. is in fact popping things heads off).

[@SJ-GodofGnomes21]

So much to love with Harry and his daughter. "You fight Dracula's" And "I have a monster under my bed and he's called Mouse"

[@dandydeadpool]

Skin Game is definitely in my top 5 for the series, so much good stuff in it! Michael coming back one last time made me so happy(and nervous)and his quiet conversation with Harry is up there with some of the best scenes in the entire series for me. I have a "What I'd Like To Happen" for Amoracchius and that's for Thomas to be its Knight. Who better to wield the Sword Of Love than the only White Court vampire to be in love, and the son of a king at that?

[@fredranzalot4849]

Cerberus actually means something like "spotted" in ancient greek, so Hades literally did name his dog Spot.

[@jeremydanchuk1897]

I loved re-reading this book and looking for the code words. So much of the story dynamic changes once let in on that little secret. I also really liked the end scene with Johnny Marcone where Dresden gives him the weirguild, there are going to be some interesting consequences from that scene.

[@mkohlhorst]

Butcher's favorite turn a phrase for Butter's sword is a Right Saber. Someone said it to him at a convention and he's liked it ever since. As for the swords healing people, it doesn't work that way. There's WOJ (Word of Jim) from a convention that the swords only level the playing field allowing regular people to stand against supernatural threats. Michael was healed by possessing Uriel's grace and it was the equivalent of China loaning North Korea an ICBM to power their lights (in terms of supernatural power). Most sword bearers only wield the blade for one time and then pass it on to the next with few taking up the profession as Knight of the Cross. Also the reason the sword of Faith broke was because Murphy condemned Nicodemus when she went to strike him down (Judge not lest ye be judged) after he'd "surrendered". The Knight's purpose is to save the Blackened Knights not to kill them. Murphy doesn't want to save them, she wants to kill them and is not worthy because of this.

[@DougTurley]

I'm with you on it not looking like Karrin would be a good Knight. But to be clear, I think it was only in that moment that we know for sure of her intentions. Up until that point, she hadn't made the choice. But she could also make another choice if given the chance.

[@lathspell87]

Your intro music is so perfect for Dresden. I mean... if they were to make a true to the series TV show, this is the song they should use for the intro.

[@mndrew1]

Well, Michael was crippled and spent a year in the hospital while wielding a sword as a knight; so I wouldn't bet on healing powers. The swords aren't there to protect the user; but for the user to protect the innocent.

[@keios]

My favourite description of Dresden comes from the short story told from Thomas' point of view (I can't remember the title off the top of my head) as "He's Gandalf on crack and an IV of Red Bull, with a big leather coat and a .44 revolver in his pocket. He'll spit in the eye of gods and demons alike if he thinks it needs to be done, and to hell with the consequences ".

[@nicademous6396]

Jim said I an interview yesterday that Cerberus and Mouse are going to have a short story together!

[@TurtleDude05]

It really is amazing, how much changes and development happens in the last 5 books so far. While I love some of the earlier books, I always start to really get excited from around book 10 on.

[@stumpy1146]

Loved the video, great as always! I have a personal pet theory that Michael's oldest son will end up with Aundriel's coin. The kid is proud, angry, and has lost fights giving him a healthy inferiority complex. Nic, while not being beaten outright, has failed 3 major schemes in his recent history. No way his Fallen is telling him everything, his hubris will make the Fallen abandon him.

[@alextuttle7762]

Interesting theory

[@DougTurley]

Spoilers: Dresden didn't implicently tell Nicodemous that he had a kid but the way he talked and adding some things together, Nickey figured it out.

[@bunniesbunniesbunnie]

I still think one of my favorite things is that bit where Harry's like "I bet her first word was dada" wrt Deidre and I'm like damn shut up Harry he's gonna figure it out.

[@bkittle525]

I literally came to the comments to make this exact point lol

[@andreamiller3578]

My favorite Dresden book right after Changes. It's got a bit of everything in my opinion: mystery, Harry's sass, funny bits, serious/tragic bits, interested story, Goodman Grey, character development, wonderful quotes, story arc continued. Etc. I have a love/hate relationship with Butters in this book. I HATE how he screwed up, not trusting even Murphy at this point. I understand it but I am carrying a grudge. However, the sword part is nerdy and awesome. I am curious where Karrin's story will go from here because, like you, I was so excited to see her wield a sword. Interesting development for her. Wondering if this a signal for a continued darker tone for her. A slight alignment shift from lawful good perhaps? I LOVED seeing Michael back in action for one last time. And his whole interaction with Harry is so good. The Hades visit was definitely a highlight, including Spot, which had me googling ancient terms. Maggie hit all the feels. Can't wait for more. Looking forward to July 14.

[@CD-gh4oc]

Nerdy and AWESOME is exactly right!

[@JamesMcCormickIV]

The cruelest revenge for spoilers would be to spoil PEACE TALKS. MUWAHAHAHHAHAHA! I'm so evil :p Great stuff. Glad you finally caught up. The spoiled twist you mention is one of the few I absolutely DID NOT SEE COMING!!! And it's so perfectly fitting. Also P.S. -- I literally had the same path to reading the Dresden Files as you, except one book advanced. I read the series to completion, finishing the DAY that SKIN GAME came out--and then had to wait 3 years for the next book LOL. And yes...I'm crazy jealous that you rolled right into PEACE TALKS and ALSO don't even have to wait for the book AFTER THAT coming out in Sept. You lucky, lucky SOB! LOL P.P.S. Love this channel and your reviews. There's really nothing like it on KZbin. (Not knocking other BookTube channels, but the overwhelming majority are YA with young female hosts that simply don't share my reading tastes.) I've been following this channel since you had like (I think it was) 7 Subscribers.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks for the kind words. I knew I'd never gain mass appeal, so I tried to corner a market that I didn't see represented much on KZbin; book discussion for the late 30's, early 40's crowd.

[@JamesMcCormickIV]

​@@mikesbookreviews It's really nonexistent. Searching for exactly that niche is how I found your channel.

[@bookfreak16984]

Hey one of the short stories Butcher posted on his website is Harry's and Maggie's first Christmas. I think you'll enjoy that one.

[@dylancox631]

Totally agree, probably a top 5 for me also. I always thought Butters saving Harry in Dead Beat was divine intervention. I didn’t think he’d become a Knight, no way to call that, but just because you prayed for a knight and got a mortician instead doesn’t mean it wasn’t help from on high. A very cool twist. And yes, the Knights of the Blackened Denarious do show up every 5th book. But her joked around the time of Ghost story about them and he said “I think Nicodemus will be arriving on schedule.” Meaning the 15th book lol Great review! Can’t wait to read Peace Talks

[@madscientist2621]

Mike, seriously read Zoo Day in Brief Cases and Christmas Eve on Butcher's website. Great Maggie stories plus Zoo Day has Mouse playing the hero. As a father, those stories tug on my heart strings

[@Reavan07]

18:45 One point regarding the Spirit of Intellect that Harry 'birthed'. The headaches began the first book after White Night, so Jim has been subtly building up to this point for several books.

[@Dawnphyre]

I also highly recoment listening to Marsters' rendition of the Hadies chat (yes i know you can't really do audio, but it's a worthwhile snippet, just like your favorite line from Grave Peril)

[@WanderingRogue1]

First timer here, your intro was amazing! Good job 👍

[@StoryLoreStudio]

When he knock on Michael's door and said I think I'm lost...I teared up.

[@D123-f9k]

The fact that this isn't Butters' apex makes me smile.

[@darkwingeduriel]

Goodman Grey is so cool, I read the short Monsters in Parallel worlds about him a week ago and I can see why Butcher says Gray is the one he would most likely write a spinoff on. :O

[@sjkrum320]

I'm so sorry the thing with Butters was ruined for you. I love his story. When you get a chance, he has a cool short story in Brief Cases. There's is also one with Harry, Mouse and his daughter at the zoo. It's a great dad story and I think you'll love it. PS I'm happy for you that you got your ARC of Peace Talks. A little jelly, but I think it's great for you and your channel!

[@dylancox631]

And as far a the healing and the swords: from how Butcher has described it, and he went into this a bit more in the short story “The Warrior” (one of his best, highly recommend), an Angel can not fix injuries that are the result of your choices. Harry made a choice on Demonreach, Michael was injured as a result. Free will is meaningless if you never have to suffer the consequences of that choice. Murphy chose to bring the sword into it, chose to fight Nicodemus, chose to make the mistake that caused it to break and then got her ass kicked. What healed Michael wasn’t taking back up the sword, it was Uriel giving Michael his Grace. Michael needed to be able to walk to help Harry, he couldn’t help Michael without giving him his Grace, so he did. This is when Harry made the analogy “he gave you his jumbo jet because you needed a flashlight”. The Grace healed him, not the sword. Once Uriel has his Grace back, Michael was injured again. I could go on, but I won’t spoil The Warrior for you. It’s seriously one of Butchers best stories, hands down. Sorry someone ruined that for you, some people get excited. Can’t wait for your wishlist video, I have a theory to share with you!

[@lucasbertsche3710]

Hands down my favorite Dresden novel! Every scene with Michael has me in tears! Also, I couldn’t think of a better plot. Harry is forced to work the the series best villain to steal the freaking Holy Grail from the Underworld. Jim Butcher you beautiful bastard, thank you!

[@DPS31762]

I don't really have a lot of speculation about Peace Talks, but I hope Mister is alright. Harry talked to Murphy about how Mister was getting old, and it's been 5 more years now, presumably. IIRC, Mister was about 3 at the start of the series, so that would make him about 23 now. That's really old for a cat; not unprecedented for one to live even longer than that, but still really old. Other than Bob, Murphy, and Harry himself I think that Mister is the only character who's been in all the first 15 books (Michael and Thomas weren't introduced until Grave Peril, and Marcone and Hendriks weren't around in Ghost Story--Childs was there as Marcone's representative). Also, even if you don't read any of the other short stories yet, read Zoo Day. You like the Harry/Maggie stuff, and it's a great story about their relationsip. It's also a great Mouse story, and you like Mouse a lot, too.

[@TheDarkMessiah]

I almost wouldn't be surprised if it turns out that Mister is either directly sired by Cat Sith or he somehow takes up Cat Sith's mantle. It sure would help keeping him alive through either mantle immortality or changelings' long life.

[@seanhall7705]

Mister isn't quite as old as that. You should check out the series timeline that Butcher has on his website. www.jim-butcher.com/timeline You are correct that Mister is 3 in Storm Front, but Skin Games is only 14 years later, which makes Mister closer to 17. That is still old for a cat, but not super old. That being said, Harry has mentioned several times that Mister is quite a bit larger than a regular cat, and he believes that Mister is a mix with some other type of wild cat. It would be very cool if Butcher reveals that Mister is a scion(perhaps of a Malk) similar to how Mouse is a scion. If that were the case, then there's no telling how old Mister could get.

[@DPS31762]

@@seanhall7705 That's an interesting timeline, but it wasn't done by Jim Butcher himself, so it's not entirely canon. Two things in particular: 1) Harry's mom can't have been that old. Yeah, wizard, so long lifespan, but Luccio mentions that she hadn't had to deal with her menstrual cycle for over a century, so we can infer that female wizards don't have child-bearing years of over 100 years; and 2) while its possible that Peace Talks and Battle Ground take place only about 14 years after Stormfront, in that case Stormfront has to have taken place in 2005 or 2006, rather than in about 2000, because Peace Talks takes place some time after the big fire at Notre Dame, which was in April 2019 IIRC.

[@crae5677]

I am halfway through “SkinGame” on Audiobook……I am SO STRESSED!🥺Things are looking grim.

[@wbrownshadow]

Omg i talk about Harrys Conversation with Hades all the time about that Spot joke. It was hilarious

[@ilesalmo7724]

Maybe a review for best of Side Jobs and Brief Cases next?PS. I love "Spot"

[@DoubleCrossedPaths]

I don't think Murphy taking up the sword will heal the injuries Nicodemus gave her in Skin Game at all. Michael was given Uriel's grace. That worked for Michael's injuries the way the mantle of the Winter Knight worked for Harry's in Changes. You aren't alone, though. I've been expecting to see her take one of the swords up since Michael asked Harry to watch over Shiro's blade. Also incredibly jealous that you already got to read Peace Talks. It's already been a long time, so 6 more days shouldn't feel like anything, but it feels like an eternity right now.

[@nathanliteroy9835]

By the way, Mantle didn't heal Harry, his deal with Mab did, they are separate. He loses Mantle when fighting at the end of the last book, and it doesn't affect his spine at all

[@EMTedroni]

Great video! Love your work! *Spoilers!* 3 small nit-picks. 1) Fidelacchius didn't break because Nicodemus was helpless. Nicodemus was going to have the genoskwa kill Harry, and Karen lost her temper. She called Nicodemus a bastard or somesuch, and in doing so became judgemental. "Judge not lest ye be judged" kicked in, and Karen lost access to the Sword's power. 2) The doctors said Murphy could get to about 90% of where she was, which is still pretty badass. 3) Harry didn't outright tell Nicodemus about Maggie. Nicodemus put it together from what Harry told him, as Michael put it "...things only a father would know...". Quick clarification: The Swords of the Cross amplify a person's faith, enabling them to affect the supernatural world (often permanently, remember when Michael passively set a Red Court vampire on fire for touching him? "That happens, sometimes."), but they do not heal, otherwise Michael wouldn't have had to retire after being shot. The legit Shroud of Turin just might, though. And the Grail probably would. But Harry only has the Shroud to try, and Nick has the Grail.

[@delphy2478]

so, about the sword, it wasn't shattered because nicodemous was defenseless, it was because murphy personally judged nicodemous and tried to execute him when he surrendered, which removed the divine protections and made it just a mortal sword for murphy taking up amoracious, i don't think it would heal her, so much as allow her to not be restricted by her injuries int he performance of her duties. i personally think that eventually harry is going to take up amorachious, because so much of what he does is for the love of his friends and family

[@awizardintraining]

Ended up being my third favorite book in the series, and when you get to book 15 and it ends up being one of your favorites, well, hats off to Mr. Butcher. I was surprised Tess ended up wanting to help Nico at the end there at the Carpenter raid. I mean, the jerk killed their daughter. Did she have some foreknowledge that he was going to do it? Is that why she was pissed off with Dresden? Did she know that with Dresden involved in the caper, there was no way he was going to let Nicodemus kill Anna, and thus forced his hand in sacrificing Dierdre?

[@goaway3717]

I'll admit to a small amount of jealousy for your advanced copy but I'm very happy you've gotten 'current'. I'll be listening to it on release day next week. I know you said Peace Talks is short but it is longer than his early books and the one coming out in September is listed as longer than Skin Game. The short story told from 3 different viewpoints about Harry's day at the zoo with Maggie is a must read for your heartstrings. I think it's the last one in Brief Cases. You certainly don't need to read it for context of understanding anything in the main books but it's a definite 'happy' read. It's whetting my appetite for what Butcher has revealed about a spinoff series he's going to be writing (or already is?) with his sister.

[@BobTheSkull]

I cant believe that someone would post a spoiler for a book series you are currently reading through so thoughtlessly. Glad you liked skin game! One of my favorite books just due to Michael's comeback for a bit. And to speak on the swords healing, I dont believe that would go with the story logically as michael was severely damaged in his fight on demonreach originally and he had to give up the sword because of it. It seems to me that it was uriel giving up his grace or "divinity" to michael that made him able to fight. Unless the swords have power we don't know about it shouldn't heal Murphy in my opinion. I feel like that would negate the consequences to her choices of free will and that seems to be a big theme of the series. Now to throw this out there: there is a decently sized fan theory that murphy will be killed in a future book and become a valkyrie or einherjar. Not sure how I feel about that theory but it's a possibility since we've been teased with it in the past.

[@toddjackson3136]

So looking forward to this review!

[@FlochIsKing]

Quick Like + Comment just for that "Because Stone Cold said so" reference.

[@jacob_90s]

There's an interesting fan theory that the knife isnt the Holy Lance, but rather the knife Jesus used to slice the bread at the last supper. Not sure how much stock I put in that, but it is an interesting theory

[@hilarycohen1470]

So loved the TV show. Wish they’d film the rest of the Files . With the same cast.

[@quizquesttrivia3448]

What I found interesting was the similarities between what Hades does in the underworld, & what Harry is now responsible for on Demonreach. Watching over the most evil, & keeping them from getting out into the world. And, Hades adds, they both have large dogs. I'm wondering if there's any connection between that, & a starborn every 6 hundred & sixty-six years. Seems like a very specific & ominous number.

[@Malryth]

Too bad you caught the Butters spoiler early on. Given my frugal nature I wanted to wait until Skin Game was published in paperback before I bought & read it. That is when I re-read the series and pauses to read the short stories in between. It does give you a richer experience. I do agree wholeheartedly that the love child/spirit of Intellect surprised me. Nothing I gleaned reading the short stories hinted at that or the subsequent whopping surprise(s) and revelations in Battle Ground. Perhaps when I re-read the series for a 3rd time, I’ll pick up any hints regarding the new Intellect spirit. To close however. I think all Dresden fans can agree. It’s how all the majestic detail was built up and upon itself that brought us to Battle Ground. It really is about the journey. Peace ✌️

[@makenshi990]

As an aside about Mouse which came up on Reddit a while back from Butcher himself, as he wasn't sure it would ever make it into the books (spoiler below if you'd rather not know)... ...Mouse's power is dependant on the threshold of the home he is protecting, and Dresden's home (the basement apartment) had a very weak one whereas the Carpenter home has a very powerful one. I believe he explained it as "Mouse went from the Thing to the Hulk".

[@chadwhitfield6946]

I know you dont do audiobook but you should listen to this chapter with Harry meeting Maggie. James Marsters puts so much emotion in it. It's amazing.

[@Jaxxofrune]

Great video Mike. Very well done. Yeah, I was thinking that somebody had ruined that for you. Which sucks.

[@stevenstewart782]

You got your wish Mike. The Holy Grail

[@justceri9341]

There r 2 Dresden books this year, book 16 peace talks and boom 17 battle ground (out sep29 in the Uk). I luv Dresden files

[@ewitsdonovan]

IMO, probably the second best book in the series (Changes is probably the best). I love the message that the story has about faith, and that becoming a monster is ultimately a choice. Dresden’s fear of becoming a monster proves that he isn’t one. Also Michael is always amazing.

[@SilverFang1496]

It is pretty implicitly stated that the powers of Heaven can't heal Karen because her injuries were received due to a situation she chose to be in. This is reinstated when Uriel can't heal Harry in "Changes" and why Michael haf to retire in the first place. Also while the source is Niccodemous so gain of salt, its said Karen was never meant to be a full Knight only a temporary one. The whole deal of the Knights is explored a bit more in the short story "Day One" where its reinforced that the Knights dont become super powerful, the Swords just let them stand at even odds with things that would normally outclass them.

[@justinclay5863]

I really enjoyed reading this book the second time because i knew the secret code between him and goodman made it funner

[@markwatson8714]

Taking a sword, even assuming she was willing, wouldn't help Murphy. A fae mantle might do it (and given how the relationship between her and Dresden seems to go it'd have to be a Summer mantle. Anyone check on Fix lately?).

[@mattroxursoul]

I liked the first scene with Michael more than his daughter honestly. Harry lost, confused and scared. Michael opens the door and does not hesitate for an instance to bring Harry in. Gives Harry that boost when he was at rock bottom

[@levydeat]

I tear up in this book, when Harry is down for the count. No one is coming to save them. The kids are in danger, Murphy and all of them are in danger. And Waldo Butters chooses to be a hero.

[@jellevanbreugel325]

Great review, can't wait till PT comes out butta whaddayamean it's really short??!?!?!?! Pagecount?

[@savingpyro]

I know your stance on the short stories, but there are a few in Brief Cases that I feel will play a role in Peace Talks. One story is a Butters post Skin Game, one is about Molly in her new role, and one is about Harry, Maggie, and Mouse. Also I feel like the interaction between Charity and Harry after he sees Maggie should get more attention.

[@dillonpatterson4310]

At the end it's because uriel healed him. Michael got crippled while holding the sword and was a knight but he didnt heal. The sword just levels the playing field and give the wielder a chance.

[@edwardflores6604]

Thère was that bit ŵhere Michael vroke his ribs and his sword. I think the swords just give an endorphin boost

[@Demonreached]

I smashed like on this video so fast..

[@alextuttle7762]

Bummer about the lightsaber spoiler 😕 . I was really excited for you to get to that one.

[@fatalphalanx]

Lucky guy only has to wait less than a week to read the next one :) even got an advanced copy :P cant wait to hear you review that one!

[@BobTheSkull]

He's already read peace talks per the video.

[@gaitman22]

I thought the shroud was more of the healing item, than the sword, and on top of that it gives his daughter the perfect sensei to grow with, and a home already preset in place for both of them. I would be really surprised if Harry didn’t rock the nuclear family with Murphy.

[@NIcolasbobbitt]

The best part about Butters is the Line in my Favorite Dresden Book. Dead Beat. When Hairy is praying for a Knight of the Cross and Butters shows back up... 8 books later.

[@danielwhite2199]

Mike...if you like the Harry Dresden dad stuff, you should go onto the Jim Butcher website and check out the short Harry Dresden Christmas story that he posted. Great stuff.

[@danielwhite2199]

www.jim-butcher.com/christmas-eve

[@seanclaussen6254]

How short is it. I thought i saw somewhere it was pretty typical length for Dresden.

[@Dawnphyre]

been waiting for your review of the Maggie chapter, chokes me yp a little every time and I don't have kids

[@TomasCyr]

I mean you figure out the parasites identity halfway through the book when internal Harry tells him, the person at the end just confirms it

[@totesmagotes213]

Is it too crazy to think that Nicodemus will take up the 3rd sword? It seemed like Michael got to him in this book and it would be quite fitting for him to be saved.

[@chandlee3968]

Even though they brought the sword back in a strange way, it wasn’t that extreme of a situation. It has been mentioned that two of the swords (Not Michael’s) had been re-forged in the past.

[@JustPassingThrough98]

And he’s a wrestling fan 😭 be still my marking out heart

[@jeffreymeehan3567]

If you loved the chapter with Dresden interacting with Maggie and finally deciding to be a full-time dad, I HIGHLY recommend you read "Zoo Day", which is the final short story in _Brief Cases_. It's the story of Harry and Maggie's first Father-Daughter outing (to the zoo) and it is chalk full of the awkward, heart-wrenching, and utterly wholesome stuff that was in that chapter of _Skin Game_. It also has sections told from the perspectives of not only Harry but also Maggie and Mouse. It's a short story -- not a very long read -- and we all know you're going to pick up the short story anthologies eventually anyway. Just do yourself a favor and at least read that one soon.

[@aaronk8440]

Swords don’t heal. Uriel granted Michael his grace which, temporarily, healed his injuries and restored him to his pique physical condition. Once the mission was accomplished, Uriel took his grace back and Michael went back to being a cripple. A beautiful, hunky, loveable cripple.

[@marktaylor6473]

Spoiler question / comment... In the scene where Harry is settling up with Marcone over the death of one of his people, I don't get why Mab was upset with Harry. It was Dierdre that killed the guy, and I don't recall Harry promising to make sure that no innocent bystanders die. I get that Marcone had to do some posturing, but it was he and Mab that set things up to knock Nicodemus down a few pegs. It all ended well, thanks to Molly and the diamonds, but I still think that I'm missing something.

[@Vanillastump]

Your review of Ghost Story (I think) you said you wondered if the Holy Grail would be in Skin Game.

[@SunGawdRa]

Loved the opening, very DareDevil-ish. Liked the breakdown too, so try not to mind my nitpicks.. - About Mab/Parasite: She knew full well what was in his head, but wanted to give him motivation to do this job. Hence 'creative truth'. - Well, Harry didn't say per say he had a daughter, but Nick was smart enough to infer it. - Butter's kinda pissed me off in this story, but I did like where he ended up. For spoilers, people just can't help themselves for trying to sound smart... Dumbledor* ***S! - I'm guessing everyone's pointed out about the healing thing, so moving on..

[@mubbywub]

My favourite book. Such an epic heist!

[@Reepicheep-1]

"Do you want to be my dad?" I've a 3 month old. I'm re-reading Dresden right now. This is going to hit HARD in a couple more books... You NEED to read Zoo Day. If you skip all the other shorts, Read This One!

[@goaway3717]

No, picking up the sword doesn't grant any healing that I can recall in the earlier books. I think there was a short exchange in one of the earlier books with the knights about the swords not granting special powers other than being able to face the fallen - hence the layers of Kevlar that Charity adds to his breast plate but it's be awhile since I've listened to whichever book that was in.

[@frankgori9582]

he has the other items... one of them might be able to heal her and maybe michael too?

[@leadingblind1629]

This was the first one I read new. And I have to admit that albeit a few ultimately special moments, I initially HATED it. But now it's my #3rd favorite

[@leadingblind1629]

Oh, and... "...wanted to melt into a quivering puddle of PLEASE DON'T KILL ME!!!"

[@mattroxursoul]

Michael was not healed. WIth Uriel's spirit he was able to be a knight again. But that was the power of an arch angel being put into a human. Next book Michael will be back to himself once more. Was already shown that Murphy could not be a Knight.

[@gauchplant]

I wouldn't count Murphy out just yet... I just had a thought of her going around in a tank--if there isn't some sort of healing she goes through...

[@orrinscott-stewart3641]

It is not explicitly stated but taking up the sword would not heal Murphy. If that was the case Michael would have not needed to retire and just taking up Amorachius would have healed his injuries,. It was clearly stated in Skin Game that it was Uriel's Grace that allowed Michael to operate like he was healed but in actuality he is not better. Once Uriel gets his Jet Plane back Michael will be crippled again. Also I know you love Murphy and I do too but she is not meant to be a Knight. She is a good person but being a Knigt of the cross takes more than that. Murphy doesn't have the temperment to let it all go and put it on God's hands. Hence why she broke Fidelachius in the first place. Thats why she didnt pick up the sword initially. Its a calling man and she was not called. Nichodemus actually explains it and you might say maybe he's lying but Because this book is first person a lot of the times Butcher uses exposition from other charcters to explain shit. Nichodemus told Murphy that most Knights take up the sword for a couple days for a specific task just like she did at Chichen Itza. So sorry bro, don't think its gonna happen.

[@mattroxursoul]

You are wrong, People did figure out the parasite. I was not among them but I saw people speculating on it in the Jim Butcher forum years ago. But it was one of the ideas. Still as far as I know only unknown was that whole accident thing. Still think it was Harry and Molly time traveling wrecking Harrys car in order to get a couple things done, including fix Little Chicago.