Dresden Files · #5

Death Masks

Name: Death Masks
Rating: 7.73 (33 reviews)
Author: Jim Butcher

Jim Butcher

Fantasy Urban Fantasy

7.7 / 10

33 ratings

Harry Dresden, Chicago's only practicing professional wizard, should be happy that business is pretty good for a change. But now he's getting more than he bargained for.

A duel with the Red Court of Vampires' champion, who must kill Harry to end the war between vampires and wizards...

Professional hit men using Harry for target practice...

The missing Shroud of Turin...

A handless and headless corpse the Chicago police need identified...

Not to mention the return of Harry's ex-girlfriend Susan, who's still struggling with her semivampiric nature. And who seems to have a new man in her life.

Some days, it just doesn't pay to get out of bed. No matter how much you're charging.

Amazon: View on Amazon

Published: 2003

Where to find this book

Amazon Amazon CA Amazon UK Amazon Europe Kindle Audible

External links open a book search at the selected retailer. Availability may vary.

Dresden Files

The series

Full series details →

The Dresden Files series is a thrilling urban fantasy saga that blends magic, mystery, and high-stakes adventure with a dash of humor and heart. Set in modern-day Chicago, the series follows Harry Dresden, the only professional wizard listed in the phone book. As a private investigator and supernatural consultant, Dresden faces a world filled with magical creatures, dark forces, and dangerous secrets, all while trying to maintain his moral compass in the face of overwhelming odds. With over 15 novels and numerous short stories, this bestselling series has become a cornerstone of contemporary fantasy.

Read full series description

At the heart of The Dresden Files is Harry Dresden, a wise-cracking, flawed, yet incredibly likable protagonist. Armed with his magical skills, a sharp wit, and an unwavering sense of justice, Dresden must navigate the murky world of supernatural politics, battling everything from vengeful spirits to ancient vampires. Along the way, he is joined by a memorable cast of characters, including loyal friends, reluctant allies, and dangerous enemies, each adding depth and complexity to the series. Whether he's teaming up with the enigmatic police officer Karrin Murphy or facing off against powerful, ancient beings, Dresden's journey is as much about personal growth and survival as it is about unraveling the mysteries of the magical world.

The series expertly balances action-packed scenes, deep character development, and rich world-building, creating an immersive reading experience that keeps fans coming back for more. Butcher’s unique storytelling style, filled with snappy dialogue and fast-paced plot twists, has earned The Dresden Files a devoted global fan base. The world itself is a fascinating mix of ancient magic, dark supernatural creatures, and the gritty reality of urban life, making it a perfect blend of detective noir and fantasy.

In addition to its thrilling narrative, the series has garnered critical acclaim for its ability to evolve and grow with each installment. Butcher's clever integration of both long-running story arcs and episodic cases makes the series engaging for both new readers and long-time fans. The novels have earned multiple New York Times bestseller rankings and have been adapted into graphic novels and a television series, further expanding the Dresden Files universe.

With its mix of supernatural intrigue, action-packed adventures, and endearing characters, The Dresden Files is a standout in the urban fantasy genre. For fans of epic adventures, magical detective stories, and witty protagonists, it’s a must-read series that continues to captivate readers worldwide. Whether you're new to the world of Harry Dresden or a long-time fan, this series offers a magical and thrilling experience like no other.