BookPath
Changes
Jim Butcher

Changes

Quick Answer

"Changes" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the The Dresden Files.

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

âť“ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

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2018174 ppNovellaOptional Side StoryWikidataSource
The new novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Dresden Files series. Long ago, Susan Rodriguez was Harry Dresden's lover-until she was attacked by his enemies, leaving her torn between her own humanity and the bloodlust of the vampiric Red Court. Susan then disappeared to South America, where she could fight both her savage gift and those who cursed her with it.Now Arianna Ortega, Duchess of the Red Court, has discovered a secret Susan has long kept, and she plans to use it-against Harry. To prevail this time, he may have no choice but to embrace the raging fury of his own untapped dark power. Because Harry's not fighting to save the world...He's fighting to save his child.
Next Recommended Book

Ghost Story

Book #13 of 17 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for The Dresden Files conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Changes?

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Can I read Changes before Turn Coat?

Yes. Changes is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Changes required reading for the The Dresden Files?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Changes in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Changes is Ghost Story (Book #13).