Twelve Months

Twelve Months book cover

Book (2026)

by Jim Butcher

Harry Dresden, Chicago's only professional wizard, has always managed to save the day - but, in this powerful entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling Dresden Files, can he save himself?

One year. 365 days. Twelve months.

Harry Dresden has been through a lot, and so has his city. After Harry and his allies narrowly managed to save Chicago from being razed to the ground, everything is different-and it's not just the current lack of electricity.
In the battle, Harry lost people he cared about. And that's the kind of loss that takes a toll. Harry being Harry, he's doing his level best to help the city and his friends recover and rebuild. But it's a heavy load, and he needs time.

But time is one thing Harry doesn't have. Ghouls are prowling Chicago and taking out innocent civilians. Harry's brother is dying, and Harry doesn't know how to help him. And last but certainly not least, the Winter Queen of the Fae has allied with the White Court of vampires-and Harry's been betrothed to the seductive, deadly vampire Lara Raith to seal the deal.

It's been a tough year. More than ever, the city needs Harry Dresden the wizard-but after loss and grief, is there enough left of Harry Dresden the man to rise to the challenge?

Fiction / Fantasy / Urban
Fiction / Fantasy / Contemporary
Fiction / Fantasy / General
432 pages
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 15+

This narrative deals with heavy themes of grief, trauma, and complex moral dilemmas unsuitable for younger viewers. The inclusion of mature supernatural politics, intense peril, and high-stakes romantic tension requires significant emotional maturity.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

3/5

The story features a forced betrothal to a seductive vampire, leading to themes of sexual manipulation and romantic tension. Mature romantic entanglements and suggestive themes regarding the character's relationship with the White Court are central to the plot.

Violence & Gore

4/5

The narrative involves intense battles against monsters like ghouls, resulting in realistic injuries and life-threatening combat. There is a high level of dark fantasy action where characters face significant physical danger and trauma.

Profanity

3/5

The dialogue contains frequent use of mild to moderate expletives common to the noir-detective genre, including variations of "h*ll" and "d*mn" used in frustration, as well as occasional usage of "sh*t" during high-stress action sequences.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Casual social drinking and the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress and grief are recurring elements throughout the story. These depictions are presented as part of the protagonist's lifestyle and response to his difficult circumstances.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The story deals with heavy themes of grief, the death of loved ones, and constant threats from supernatural predators. The psychological toll on the characters creates a consistently dark and suspenseful atmosphere that may be unsettling for younger audiences.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This story is about a hero trying to help his community heal while dealing with his own sadness and difficult choices.

Content Warnings

Depictions of intense loss
Supernatural violence

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The story involves intense supernatural threats, predatory creatures, and themes of forced romantic alliances. Expect high-stakes conflict and a somber, brooding atmosphere focused on psychological toll.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers can explore how personal trauma affects duty and the strength required to maintain one's values when facing impossible circumstances.

Key Topics Discussed

Trauma and grief
Supernatural politics
Moral responsibility

Why Parents Might Like It

The narrative offers a sophisticated examination of a seasoned hero struggling with the consequences of his past actions.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

4/5

Emphasizes the importance of persistence in the face of overwhelming tragedy and the necessity of community support during recovery.

Role models

3/5

The protagonist demonstrates resilience and a willingness to protect others, though his internal struggle and cynical outlook provide a complex, flawed model of leadership.

Representation

3/5

Features a wide array of supernatural factions, though specific human demographic representation is not detailed in current information.

Learning

1/5

Provides insight into social-emotional processing of grief and the burden of responsibility.

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