Snowball Fight Turns Deadly

Harry Dresden, a wizard and Warden, is training his apprentice, Molly Carpenter, in defensive magic during a snowball fight with her siblings. The playful scene quickly turns serious when Harry senses something amiss. The tranquility of the Carpenter household is shattered by an attack from supernatural creatures—gruffs, goatlike beings from the Summer Court. Harry and the Carpenters fend off the attackers, but the incident signals a deeper, more dangerous conflict brewing in the supernatural world. Harry realizes that the early winter and the attack are connected, hinting at a larger scheme involving the Courts of Faerie.

Mab's Chilling Favor

Harry encounters Mab, the Queen of Air and Darkness, who reveals that she has chosen him as her Emissary. Mab demands that Harry find and protect John Marcone, a crime lord who has mysteriously disappeared. Mab's request is not a simple favor; it's a command tied to a debt Harry owes her. The stakes are high, as Mab warns that Summer's agents are also after Harry, seeking his death. Harry is caught between the deadly politics of the Faerie Courts and his own moral compass, as he grapples with the implications of Mab's demand and the potential consequences of refusing her.

Gruffs and Guns

As Harry navigates the treacherous landscape of supernatural politics, he is pursued by more gruffs, each larger and more dangerous than the last. These enforcers of the Summer Court are relentless, armed with submachine guns and supernatural strength. Harry narrowly escapes their attacks, using his wits and magic to evade capture. The gruffs' pursuit underscores the urgency of Mab's task and the perilous position Harry finds himself in. The encounter leaves Harry questioning the motives of the Faerie Courts and the true nature of the conflict he's been thrust into.

Marcone's Disappearance Unveiled

Harry investigates the scene of Marcone's disappearance, a building reduced to rubble by a mysterious explosion. With the help of his allies, Harry uncovers evidence of a powerful magical attack, suggesting that Marcone's abduction is part of a larger, more sinister plot. The investigation reveals that Marcone had prepared for such an event, with a panic room and wards designed to protect him. However, the attackers' knowledge of these defenses indicates a betrayal from within Marcone's organization. Harry must navigate the dangerous underworld of Chicago to uncover the truth and prevent further chaos.

Denarian Threats Emerge

Harry's investigation leads him to a confrontation with the Denarians, a group of individuals possessed by fallen angels. These powerful adversaries have their own agenda, and their involvement complicates the already volatile situation. Harry learns that the Denarians are after Marcone, seeking to recruit him or eliminate him as a threat. The presence of the Denarians raises the stakes, as their influence and power could tip the balance in the ongoing conflict between the supernatural factions. Harry must find a way to counter their plans while protecting those he cares about.

Allies and Enemies

As Harry delves deeper into the mystery, he encounters both allies and enemies. He reunites with Michael Carpenter, a Knight of the Cross, and Sanya, another Knight, who offer their support in the fight against the Denarians. Meanwhile, Harry's half-brother, Thomas, and his apprentice, Molly, provide assistance in navigating the treacherous waters of supernatural politics. However, not all encounters are friendly, as Harry must also contend with Fix, the Summer Knight, who warns him of the dangers ahead. The lines between friend and foe blur as Harry races against time to unravel the conspiracy and save Marcone.

A Desperate Escape Attempt

After a harrowing battle, Harry Dresden finds himself on a sinking boat, pursued by Denarians. With the odds stacked against him, he uses his wits and magic to signal for help. His brother Thomas arrives just in time, rescuing Harry from the freezing waters of Lake Michigan. Despite the chaos, Harry manages to keep the cursed coins and the Sword of Faith out of enemy hands, but the cost of the battle weighs heavily on him.

Nicodemus's Sinister Proposition

Nicodemus, leader of the Denarians, confronts Harry with a chilling proposition: join forces to fight common enemies, promising power and influence. Harry, despite the allure of Nicodemus's offer, refuses to betray his principles. The encounter reveals the depth of Nicodemus's manipulation and the dangerous game being played, leaving Harry to ponder the true nature of his adversaries and allies.

The Final Showdown Begins

Harry and his allies, including the Knights of the Cross, prepare for a final confrontation with the Denarians. They devise a plan to rescue Ivy, the Archive, from her captors. The battle is intense, with magic and might clashing in a desperate bid to save the young girl. Harry's quick thinking and the unexpected arrival of allies turn the tide, but not without significant cost.

A Battle of Wits and Will

In a tense standoff, Harry uses his knowledge and cunning to outmaneuver Nicodemus and his followers. He exploits their arrogance and overconfidence, creating a diversion that allows him to rescue Ivy and escape. The battle of wits highlights Harry's growth as a wizard and his ability to adapt under pressure, even as he grapples with the moral complexities of his choices.

The Aftermath of Chaos

In the wake of the battle, Harry and his allies regroup and assess the damage. Michael Carpenter, a Knight of the Cross, is gravely injured, casting a shadow over their victory. Harry reflects on the cost of their actions and the fragile alliances that have formed. The struggle against the Denarians has left scars, both physical and emotional, and Harry must navigate the consequences of his decisions.

A New Understanding

As the dust settles, Harry gains new insights into his relationships and the nature of power. He confronts the complexities of his bond with Ivy and the responsibilities that come with it. A conversation with Mab, the Queen of Winter, reveals deeper layers of the supernatural conflict. Harry's understanding of his role in the larger battle against darkness deepens, setting the stage for future challenges.

Characters

Harry Dresden

Harry is a wizard and Warden of the White Council, known for his stubbornness and sense of justice. He is thrust into a dangerous conflict between the Faerie Courts and the Denarians, forced to navigate complex supernatural politics while protecting those he cares about. Harry's loyalty to his friends and his determination to do what's right drive him to take on seemingly insurmountable challenges, even as he grapples with the moral implications of his actions.

Mab

Mab is the powerful and enigmatic Queen of the Winter Court, known for her cunning and ruthlessness. She manipulates Harry into serving as her Emissary, tasking him with finding and protecting John Marcone. Mab's motives are shrouded in mystery, and her involvement in the conflict raises questions about the true nature of the Faerie Courts' intentions. Her presence looms over Harry, a constant reminder of the debt he owes and the danger he faces.

John Marcone

Marcone is the undisputed leader of Chicago's criminal underworld, known for his intelligence and strategic mind. His disappearance sets off a chain of events that draws Harry into a deadly game of supernatural politics. Marcone's preparations for such an event suggest a deep understanding of the threats he faces, but his abduction indicates a betrayal from within his organization. Marcone's fate is tied to the larger conflict, and his survival is crucial to maintaining the balance of power.

Molly Carpenter

Molly is Harry's apprentice, a young woman with a natural talent for magic. She is eager to prove herself and assist Harry in his quest, using her skills to aid in their investigations. Molly's growth as a wizard is evident as she takes on more responsibility, but her inexperience and impulsiveness sometimes put her in danger. Her loyalty to Harry and her determination to learn make her a valuable ally in the fight against the supernatural forces at play.

Thomas Raith

Thomas is Harry's half-brother, a vampire of the White Court who struggles with his nature. Despite his supernatural abilities, Thomas is fiercely loyal to Harry and often provides support in dangerous situations. His charm and wit mask a deep-seated conflict between his vampiric instincts and his desire to protect those he loves. Thomas's presence adds complexity to Harry's world, as he navigates the challenges of family and loyalty in the face of danger.

Michael Carpenter

Michael is a Knight of the Cross, wielding the holy sword Amoracchius in the fight against evil. His unwavering faith and sense of duty drive him to protect the innocent, even as he grapples with the moral complexities of the conflict. Michael's friendship with Harry is tested as they face the Denarians, but his steadfastness and courage make him a formidable ally. His presence serves as a moral compass for Harry, reminding him of the importance of doing what's right.

Sanya

Sanya is another Knight of the Cross, known for his humor and pragmatic approach to the fight against evil. His past as a former Denarian adds depth to his character, as he seeks redemption through his actions. Sanya's unique perspective and willingness to question the status quo make him a valuable ally in the battle against the Denarians. His friendship with Harry and Michael highlights the power of unity and faith in the face of darkness.

Fix

Fix is the Summer Knight, a mortal champion of the Summer Court. His role in the conflict is complicated by his loyalty to Summer and his friendship with Harry. Fix's warnings to Harry about the dangers ahead suggest a deeper understanding of the situation, but his actions are constrained by the geas placed upon him by the Summer Queen. Fix's presence adds tension to the narrative, as Harry must navigate the delicate balance between ally and adversary.

Nicodemus Archleone

Nicodemus is the cunning and ruthless leader of the Denarians, driven by a desire for power and control. His ability to manipulate others and his willingness to exploit any opportunity make him a formidable adversary. Despite his sinister nature, Nicodemus's interactions with Harry reveal a complex character who respects strength and cunning, even in his enemies.

Ivy (The Archive)

Ivy, known as the Archive, is a young girl with the accumulated knowledge of centuries. Her innocence contrasts with the immense power she wields, making her a target for those who seek to exploit her abilities. Ivy's relationship with Harry is pivotal, as he provides her with the emotional support she desperately needs, highlighting the importance of human connection in the face of overwhelming knowledge.

Plot Devices

Mab's Favor

Mab's demand for Harry to find and protect Marcone serves as the catalyst for the narrative, drawing Harry into a complex web of supernatural politics. The favor is tied to a debt Harry owes Mab, adding urgency and tension to his quest. Mab's involvement raises questions about the true nature of the conflict and the motives of the Faerie Courts, as Harry navigates the dangerous landscape of alliances and betrayals.

The Denarians

The Denarians, individuals possessed by fallen angels, serve as formidable antagonists in the narrative. Their presence complicates the conflict, as they seek to recruit or eliminate Marcone. The Denarians' influence and power pose a significant threat to Harry and his allies, as they navigate the treacherous waters of supernatural politics. The Denarians' involvement raises the stakes, as their actions could tip the balance of power in the ongoing conflict.

The Gruffs

The gruffs, goatlike beings from the Summer Court, serve as persistent adversaries in the narrative. Their pursuit of Harry underscores the urgency of Mab's task and the perilous position he finds himself in. The gruffs' presence highlights the complex dynamics between the Faerie Courts and the mortal world, as Harry navigates the dangerous landscape of supernatural politics. Their relentless pursuit adds tension and danger to the narrative, as Harry struggles to survive their attacks.

Soulfire

Soulfire is a rare and potent form of magic that allows Harry to channel his own soul into his spells, enhancing their power and complexity. This plot device highlights Harry's growth as a wizard and the potential risks and rewards of wielding such power. Soulfire serves as a metaphor for Harry's evolving understanding of his own abilities and the responsibilities that come with them.

The Greater Circle

The Greater Circle is a sophisticated magical construct used by the Denarians to imprison Ivy. Its intricate design and immense power underscore the lengths to which Harry's enemies will go to achieve their goals. The circle's eventual destruction symbolizes the breaking of Ivy's chains and the triumph of human ingenuity over dark magic.

The Knights of the Cross

The Knights of the Cross are warriors who wield holy swords imbued with divine power. Their presence in the narrative represents the struggle between good and evil, and their actions often serve as a moral compass for Harry. The Knights' involvement in the battle against the Denarians highlights the importance of faith and sacrifice in the fight against darkness.

Analysis

"Small Favor" by Jim Butcher explores the intricate dance of power, loyalty, and morality in a world teetering on the edge of chaos. Through Harry Dresden's journey, the narrative delves into the complexities of supernatural politics and the personal cost of standing against darkness. The book highlights the importance of human connections and the strength found in unity, as Harry's relationships with his allies and adversaries shape his path. The story serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle between good and evil, and the choices that define us in the face of overwhelming odds. Butcher's tale is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in a world fraught with danger.

Last updated: February 24, 2025