I read an early copy of this book. It's nice to finally see everything that has led to this point bubble up but this book is really just the set up for that. It's a must read for anyone who has made it this far into the series, but if you haven't start at the beginning definitely not here. Fits the formula of every other Dresden book starting a touch slow to build up the mystery/premise of the individual story but then usually you get a great exciting climax, that doesn't happen in this book. It's clearly just the first half of a normal Dresden novel with the second half in book 17. Honestly I would hold off on reading this till Battle Ground comes out and you can read them back to back. ( )

Excellent as always and a good setup for the next book (which seems like a knock-down, drag-out magical fight). ( )

Oh how this sets up the next book.
Can't wait! ( )

I don't know why this says I've read it twice, I did not. I read it one time and I will NEVER pick it up again. ( )

"Some free advice for you: Never fight an old man. They've been there, done that, written the book, made and starred in the movie, designed the T-shirt, and they've got no ego at all about how the fight gets won."

Peace Talks is the sixteenth entry in The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. The Accorded nations have decided it is time to end hostilities and have chosen Chicago as the location to host Peace Talks. The White Council is providing security for the event and have drafted Harry Dresden as part of the team. Nothing could possibly go wrong with all the main powers of the supernatural community gathered in one place...

Butcher sure packed a lot into this one. While the story mostly serves a set up for Battle Ground, a lot was covered. The story was surprisingly deep with poignant thoughts and moments around family, home and love, in addition to all the politics surrounding the talks. Harry being Harry there are plenty of eye roll worthy ogling and funny moments too.

Speaking of family, Harry and Ebenezer finally face some of the outstanding issues between them. I feel bad about Ebenezer. He's let his hate run away with him. I don't really expect anything much here other than him being a royal pain in Harry's side. And scaring poor Maggie. Maybe I'll be surprised and he will come around eventually about Thomas. Even though he can be a difficult old man, Ebenezer is truly a bad ass. It was highly enjoyable witnessing a battle with a Senior White Council member in it.

Butcher also did his research on Irish myths for this story. I hope I didn't spoil the second book for myself by looking up the Fomor and Ethniu as he's been pretty true to the myths so far.

If they had to break it into two books, I like where this ended. The stage is well set for Battle Ground without really being a cliff hanger. The only thing missing is Lugh of the Tuatha if Butcher is going to keep following the myth. I hope Chicago survives the battle to come. ( )