There's also Bob, a spirit that lives in a skull and helps Harry with his magic knowledge. And Murphy, a police detective who often gets involved in Harry's cases. She doesn't have magic but is tough and smart, and her relationship with Harry adds an interesting dynamic to the stories.
One of the great things about the 'Harry Dresden Short Stories' is the setting. It's a modern - day world but filled with magic and the supernatural. This creates a really interesting contrast. For example, Harry might be dealing with a faerie in an alleyway right next to a coffee shop. The blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary makes for a captivating read. And the short story format allows for quick, exciting adventures that keep you hooked from start to finish.
They expand the world. For example, they might introduce new magical concepts or creatures that we haven't seen in the main series. This enriches the overall lore.
There could be various types of stories. Maybe some are about the local history of Dresden, like tales of its architecture and how it was built over time.
The basic reading order starts with 'Storm Front', then continues with the main novels in publication order. For the short stories, it's often best to fit them in chronologically within the series as they expand on the world and characters. For example, 'Side Jobs' is a collection of short stories that can be read at various points to enhance the understanding of the overall story arc.
The story 'Backup' is really interesting. It gives us a different perspective on some of the characters. It shows their backstories and how they became who they are in the Dresden Files universe.
One interesting story could be about Dresden's encounter with a powerful and mysterious magical being. It might show his struggle to understand and deal with it.
Yes, there are audio versions available for the Harry Dresden novels. You can find them on platforms like Audible. They are really great for those who like to listen to stories on the go or while doing other tasks.