My own great re-read of the Dresden files has begun. It will be filled with spoilers and story specific information.

I forget now where I heard about the short story Restoration of Faith first, but I seem to recall that the author was less than happy with it at this point. It was an initial offering in a series that has gone on for a very long time. Anyone that practices their craft for that long is bound to get better and will likely look back at their early work and shake their head.

This story is the first appearance of Murphy. There’s very little detail, but I filled all that in based on all the other stories I’ve read. It gives this short story a bit of a different twist really… or not really a twist but an alternate feeling. Feeling is what came through for me in this short piece.

I still contend that if you’ve not started the Dresden Files you should read this. IF a down on his luck want to be private investigator that happens to also be a wizard doesn’t work for you after this short, you can pass. IF you’re into a guy like that, and you get a good feeling about Harry at the end, you will enjoy the ride.

I’m going to continue to recommend this as a starting point for anyone unfamiliar with the series – and I’ll likely be back to read it again.