Murder and magic keep life interesting in both good and bad senses for PI/Druid Connor Grey. Though he does not like the fact that he makes his living from the misfortunes of others, when his policeman friend calls to ask for his help on a murder in the worst part of Boston's magic district, Connor knows the bills can be paid. Although he's without magical skills thanks to a brain injury, he still has his connections and his knowledge, and he will need all of those assets and then some to solve a mystery that could tear apart not only the magical world, but the ordinary one as well.

Fascinatingly complex is the world within ours that Mr. Del Falco has engineered. The elves, druids, and so forth are not cute or ethereal, but gritty, edgy beings who are dangerous as they are intriguing. With the same sort of humor that makes the Dresden files a favorite for many, though less relationship driven, this belongs on any urban fantasy fan's list to buy. I do notice that some reviewers have panned this because Connor's quest to solve what happened to himself and regain his powers does not advance to their satisfaction. However, the note of reality that adds to the fantastical narrative is welcome. In everyday life, I would ask, how fast do most intentions to improve things advance? This feature is a plus, not a minus.