Grave Peril by Jim Butcher

Grave Peril (Dresden Files, #3) ('Dark' Carpathian)

by Jim Butcher

Wizard for hire Harry Dresden gets mixed-up with the dead in this “haunting, fantastical novel”(Publishers Weekly) in the #1 New York Times bestselling series.

Harry Dresden’s faced some pretty terrifying foes during his career. Giant scorpions. Oversexed vampires. Psychotic werewolves. It comes with the territory, when you’re the only professional wizard in the Chicago area phone book.

But in all Harry’s years of supernatural sleuthing, he’s never faced anything like this: the spirit world’s gone postal. All over Chicago, ghosts are causing trouble—and not just of the door-slamming, boo-shouting variety. These ghosts are tormented, violent, and deadly. Someone—or something—is purposely stirring them up to wreak unearthly havoc. But why? And why do so many of the victims have ties to Harry? If Harry doesn’t figure it out soon, he could wind up a ghost himself...

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on

4 of 5 stars

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Grave Peril by Jim Butcher is the third novel in the Harry Dresden file and once again I listened to the narration provided by James Marsters. In this third book the stars seem to align and I know this series and I are about to embark and a beautiful friendship.

Grave Peril takes place almost a year later. We learn that Harry and Susan are still together. We also learn that our boy Harry along with Murphy and local law enforcement spent the previous year taking down a sorcerer who unleashed a demon. A new character with a shared history with Harry suddenly appears. Michael confused me. Where the hell did he come from? I will be honest, I felt like I missed something and had to double check I hadn't missed a book, but nope, while I was loading up the next audiobook Harry was busy off the page. However, all is explained and we even meet a dragon so all is well. The story kicks off with an intense scene and never slows down as the supernatural activity continues to increase in the Chicago area.

  • Vampires, ghosts and demons fill the pages as Dresden and his friends find themselves in some tough pinches.

  • Harry's Godmother Lea, wants to own him. Seriously. The woman is creepy as hell and we learn about Harry's past and the promise he made her.

  • The agitated ghost of Agatha Hagglethorn appears in the nursery of Cook County hospital. This encounter forces Harry and Michael to travel to the Nevernever.

  • Vampires and vengeful demons..oh yeah!

  • Susan causes trouble when she does something Harry warns her not to do. What does Harry sees in the reporter?


Butcher balances humor with intense suspense and it's an aspect I am coming to love in this series. I loved the interaction between Michael and Harry. Their behavior upon returning from the Nevernever in the nursery was hilarious! Michael's faith makes him a powerful ally as doe his  sword,  Amoracchius.

James Marsters, is the perfect narrator for this series.  He has become the voice of Harry Dresden. Harry is such a complex character and Marsters showcased his vulnerability and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good and the lives of his friends. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 14 June, 2018: Finished reading
  • 14 June, 2018: Reviewed