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I was very disappointed in this book, I think it was written to get paid for the name, I am still a fan, but not if the coming books are like this one.

Thomas Raith is best known as the half-brother of Harry Dresden, the wizard featured in The Dresden Files series. Thomas has a secret life, however, one Harry knows nothing about. An email from his sister, Lara, about matters pertaining to the Oblivion draws Thomas into a mess in which Harry is already involved. Can Thomas prevent chaos and save Harry's life, all without Harry's knowledge?

BACKUP is a fascinating story in the world of Harry Dresden as it offers additional insight into the character of Thomas and the inner workings of the Vampire Courts. Be warned, however, that the book is extraordinarily short and doesn't provide enough back story for readers new to the series.

Thomas walks a fine line, caught between Harry's world and the world of the vampires. His perspective adds a refreshing touch to the world fans of Dresden are already familiar with. It's hard not to sympathize with Thomas as he faces his inner monster. I certainly hope we can see more stories told from Thomas' viewpoint, perhaps even ones of a longer length.

BACKUP is yet another fantastic tale from the mind of Jim Butcher. Mr. Butcher's clear, crisp writing style makes this seemingly unbelievable world of monsters, vampires, wizards, and talking skulls believable. Bravo!

COURTESY OF CK2S KWIPS AND KRITIQUES

I find the Harry Dresden series enjoyable. But, Harry's relationship with his half-brother strains credibility. Harry orders Thomas around, like Thomas is a robot. I'd believe it more if Thomas snapped back a few times.

So, "Backup" was overdue. Thomas' voice seems similar to Harry's, but still enjoyable.

As much as I like Jim Butcher's Dresden series, I am disappointed in this book. The quality of the book binding was excellent but the contents were sadly lacking. To call the book a novelette is grandiose. It's about one chapter's worth of any of his other books. Very hurried and lacking in story details. Certainly not worth the price paid for it as it can be read in thirty minutes. Harry Dresden's brother is certainly an interesting subject and if it were written as a full length novel it would be as worthy as the Harry Dresden novels.

Harry's half-brother Thomas is a monster...but one who nevertheless Harry loves. This short story is an enjoyable outing in the Dresden universe, but it's only a taster and would be better placeed in a book of short stories than as a seperate novella. I enjoyed the book, but its a very quick read. We can only hope it is published again as part of other Dresden short stories, which would be better value for money for the reader.