Harry Blackstone Copperfield Dresden is Chicago's only openly practicing wizard.
He is also dead broke.
His vast knowledge and magical skills are unfortunately matched by his talent for making powerful enemies and alienating friends.
With little more than his integrity left, he accepts an offer of work from Lt.
Karrin Murphy of Chicago's Special Investigation Unit.
He wants to redeem himself in Murphy's eyes and make enough money to quiet his rumbling stomach.
Soon he finds himself pinned bet.