I keep underestimating Mr. Butcher - I started off with the Dresden files and figured that I'd give his Codex Alera series a chance as well. It was kind of a "oh, what the heck - it won't be as good (as the Dresden books), but it'll probably be alright". I was wrong - it was terrific!

Jim has a knack for creating characters that you really come to care for. Tavi, a young boy with none of the special abilities to control 'furies' (beings of air, water, earth, fire, metal, and wood) that come natively to the other people of his kind, is essentially 'handicapped' - or so it seems. However, intelligence and courage prove that Tavi can make his own way, learning from his mistakes and showing that determination, bravery, and a quick mind are all that are needed to make one's own mark on the world.

A crackling pace, empathetic characters, and a clever story have made this one of the most enjoyable books I've read lately. Don't be put off by the cover - as I mentioned in a previous review, you really can't judge Jim's books by their covers. 5 stars, and highly recommended for all lovers of fantasy and magic.