Storm Front (Dramatized Adaptation): Dresden Files, Book 1
3.8 | 12 ratings
Price: 17.38
Last update: 02-02-2026
Top reviews from the United States
- OpheliaAnother Way to Experience an Iconic Urban Fantasy ClassicOk, so disclaimer: I am a huge Dresden Files fan, and also a huge James Marsters fan, and also a huge Graphic Audio fan. Having said that…
Storm Front is where it all begins for Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only wizard PI, and the launch of one of urban fantasy’s most iconic series. Longtime fans know James Marsters’ audiobook is beloved — his voice brought Dresden to life in unforgettable ways (I’d pay to hear him read the phone book).
But GraphicAudio offers something completely different. Their “movie in your mind” style is more like an adaptation: some of the material is edited, but in exchange you get the full-cast performances, layered sound, and music that makes the story feel alive in a very different way.
The casting here is inspired. Matthew Bassett’s Dresden is nothing like Marsters’ — and that’s exactly why it works. His performance has a timbre closer to Jim Butcher himself, which makes sense since Butcher was directly involved in the casting.
Nora Sofyan gives Murphy just the right amount of spunk, Gregory Linington’s Marcone feels like he stepped out of a gangster film, Bob the skull is perfectly cheeky, and Nicole Perez balances playfulness and sultry wit as Susan. Every role clicks, and that’s thanks to director Christopher Walker’s ability to conduct the whole orchestra. (My only hesitation was Toot-Toot — small part so far, so I’ll reserve judgment until I hear more.)
And then there’s the sound design — brilliant work. The music supports the dialogue without overpowering it, shifting into noir jazz or pulsing action music exactly when needed. The editing is seamless, and there are even a few sly Easter eggs in the background score for fans to catch.
GraphicAudio keeps upping their game with each release, and I’m grateful they chose to take on the Dresden Files. If you’re a fan, this is an outstanding new way to revisit Harry’s first case. And if you’re new, this is a stylish, immersive entry point into a series that only gets better from here. - Jill LallyNew Fun Way to listen to an amazing seriesI really love how the sounds and full casts bring this story to life. I do miss James Marsters as Harry though, he will always be Harry to me.
- WriTing ReViews iN SpAre TiMeNew take bringing a great book to life againGreat edit to the library. Actually very fun listening to storm Front like this.
- WilhelmThis ain't it.Amazing Books... BUT This voice isn't it for Harry. No offense to this man, but he has a soft, almost kind sounding voice, and when he wants to sound annoyed or miffed, it doesn't work, and SADLY Harry Dresden has a lot of issues with a lot of things, it's a small part of his charm. James Marsters (OG voice narrator in the 18 original audio books) is Harry Dresden. Best of luck to your new adaptation; maybe it will find a place with new fans, but again, this voice can't pull off the deep gruff of Harry, or sell me on his masculinity and strength required to take on monsters, flirt with white vampires, and stand toe to toe in wit with Murphy or the Fae Courts. Luck.
- EtloyalFun and Entertaining!So this book has been on my to be read list for years but always got pushed to this side since i tend to stick to mostly romance. When i saw that there was a dramatized audio adaptation I couldnt resist finally listening to it and I am so glad i did. I always love the Graphic Audio versions and this one was no different. It takes it to a new level and I hadnt expected the characters quirky banter and inner monologues. It was such a fun listen!
- Jenn BThe way to experience Storm FrontThank you to Netgalley, RBmedia, Graphic Audio, and Jim Butcher for a copy of this audiobook.
Storm Front kicks off the Dresden Files with the kind of energy and attitude that hooked me years ago, and this dramatized version just amplifies it. Harry Dresden is the only wizard listed in Chicago’s phone book, and his latest case, a brutal double murder tied to black magic, drags him into a dangerous game that blurs the line between detective noir and urban fantasy. The mix of magic, mystery, and Harry’s sardonic humor makes it impossible to step away.
Matthew Bassett nails Harry’s weary charm and dry wit, while the full cast breathes life into every side character—from Murphy’s sharp determination to Bob the skull’s perfectly timed snark. The chemistry between characters feels natural, even in the middle of chaos. The sound design and score are fantastic, building tension when spells fly and adding real atmosphere to quiet, dangerous moments.
Even after reading this story 4 times now including listening to two different audiobook recordings, this version reminded me why I fell for the series in the first place: the humor, the grit, the pacing, and the feeling that danger and absurdity are always just one step behind Dresden. If you want urban fantasy with attitude and a full-blown cinematic experience, this is the way to experience Storm Front. - Rosede A. OlsonNeeded James MarstersWithout James Marsters, not planning to buy this version!