We recently asked Jim Butcher fans to tell us why they loved reading The Dresden Files as part of a competition to win a load of great books, and we were innundated (in the best possible way!) with positive feedback.

We knew there was a lot of love out there for Jim Butcher and the world of Harry Dresden P.I., and his fans have definitely delivered. We’ve shared some of the responses below. Congratulations to Kieran who was randomly selected as the winner of our nineteen-book prize!

We also heard from all of you that the end of Changes – which is out in paperback this month – left most people at the edge of their seats for the next book, so when the first trickles of text from Jim Butcher’s upcoming book Ghost Story came in this week, we wanted to get it up for you as soon as we could.  You can now read chapter one of Ghost Story here (note: you should probably read Changes first if you haven’t already).

Thanks again to our readers for all of your feedback and for sharing your love of this series.

If you haven’t discovered The Dresden Files yet, there are plenty of reasons to get started below!

‘Urban fantasy, gritty detective novel whatever you’re into these are the books for you.’ – Angela

‘Because he creates characters who, over the course of a series, you truly begin to feel for and want to learn more about’ – DS

‘I love how Jim Butcher’s books include a bit of everything – some action, some humour and a little bit of love! You feel like you know the characters so well and the plots have you on the edge of your seat. I’m always recommending The Dresden Files’ – Nikki-Ann

‘I love a series that I can relate to the humaness of the character, not forced or contrived.’ – Diana

‘Because they’re so addictive – full of non-stop action, with a side-helping of snarky humour.’- Li

‘After reading the first Dresden File I was hooked. The plots are always quick paced and fantastically written and I think Harry is a wonderful creation, a strong but damaged character who clearly uses his wise cracks as a defence.’ – Emma

‘Awesome characters and character’s plans that don’t always work!’ – Nick

‘One of the few series that I’ve stayed loyal to’ – Helen

‘A cast of characters we come to care about, a plot that puts them through the wringer, and marvellous set pieces that blow the doors off.’ – Tim

‘A fresh look on magic as a whole and allows readers (especially wannabe authors) a broader opinion on the paranormal.’ – Jamie

‘I devoured them over the space of three weeks! I cannot get enough of them.’ – Kieran

‘Because they draw me into a vivid and exciting world, with unique characters and action filled stories that mean that I can never just read one chapter, or one book at a time!’ – Lindsy

‘Jim Butcher is a brilliant writer that doesn’t allow you to stop turning the pages.’ – Sheikh

‘It’s simple really. Reading The Dresden Files ensures I have a little “Bob” in my life. Oh and Chicago’s first (and only) Wizard PI kicks all manner of ass.’ – Paul

‘The Dresden Files has grown from an amusing crossover of fantasy and crime genres to become a rich and rewarding alternative reality each episode of which I eagerly await.’ – George

‘Because Harry Dresden is awesome! Jim Butcher has created such a loveable rouge book character – not only can he do super things with magic, he is also fallibly human and also can make mistakes and can be frustrating and exciting all at the same time.’ – Yasmine

‘I love the way there are no story elements wasted or forgotten, seemingly insignificant throw away things always come back in the end and have a bigger role to play.’ – Kevin

‘I enjoy reading them because they have original plots and characters. I know that each Dresden story will be unique.’ – Sophie

‘Dark, moody, noir and set in Chicago. Add a dash of humour and what’s not to love about these books?’ – Heather

‘Butcher’s portrayal of the supernatural is interesting and entertaining; and he messes around with tropes and mythology to create something original, gripping, and fantastic.’ – Stefan

‘Action, drama, humor, a little romance without it taking over and each book feels complete while also being part of something much bigger.’ – Stephanie

‘Jim Butcher doesn’t write stories, he crafts well thought out, exciting and above all, interesting worlds and characters. I love them because his stories stand as a testament to the power of a well crafted tale! They take pride of place on my shelf!’ – Tom