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Case Files of Henri Davenforth #11
All Fun and Games
It’s all fun and games until someone gets murdered.
Well, the Queen’s Own certainly isn’t having fun, because what’s worse than one case? Two, of course. And what’s worse than two? Whatever madness Jamie’s currently in.
The body count is rising, all the MO’s are different, and cleaning charms have wiped the murder scenes of clues. It’s hard to link the cases beyond the use of the charms, yet Jamie is sure there’s a connection. But what is it?
They need to figure out the answer fast, because the clues suggest one of their own might be next.
Well, the Queen’s Own certainly isn’t having fun, because what’s worse than one case? Two, of course. And what’s worse than two? Whatever madness Jamie’s currently in.
The body count is rising, all the MO’s are different, and cleaning charms have wiped the murder scenes of clues. It’s hard to link the cases beyond the use of the charms, yet Jamie is sure there’s a connection. But what is it?
They need to figure out the answer fast, because the clues suggest one of their own might be next.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2025
136 people are currently reading
1195 people want to read
About the author
Honor Raconteur
63 books841 followersEver since I was a toddler, I have been making up stories. I’d entertain anyone willing to listen to my wild fantasies about unicorns and gargoyles and amazing people. At 13, I started writing the stories down. At 23, I finished the first book that was, in my opinion, good enough to publish.
I spent three years trying to publish my book, Jaunten, the old fashioned way. The problem was my story was outside of the norm for young adult fantasy – it didn’t have vampires or the supernatural in it, it was clean enough to earn a PG rating, and there wasn’t any dark overlord to defeat. No literary agent would pick it up because it didn’t fit the “fantasy formula” that all of the popular books did.
I put the idea of having my book published off to the side for a while as I finished a Bachelors in English at Middle Tennessee State University. But as I worked on my third degree, the idea of being published came back to me. This time, while working as a paralegal, I had a better grasp of the laws involved of doing self-publishing. For six months, I did a great deal of research in how to do self-publishing the debt-free way.
It was hard. I was working full time, going to school full time, and living on my own. I never really had a break. I was always working on something. At times I felt like my brain would just go into meltdown from having to learn so many different things to make my idea work.
After six months, I thought I knew enough to publish myself. I put Jaunten out as an ebook, created a website and forum so that fans could communicate with me, and spread the word as best I could. Within three months, I was selling internationally. Within six months, I was making enough to quit my day job and sit at home, writing full time.
After six months of writing, publishing, and building up a reputation, I started to be approached by other people wanting to emulate what I did. I soon realized that there was a niche out there waiting for me to fill it—a place where original fiction could be published and released into the world. As of February 2012, I started my own publishing house, called Raconteur House. Since that point I have signed on four additional authors (not including yours truly) and am attracting more in a steady stream.
I have continued to write and publish the rest of the series through my House. When I’m not writing or editing, I like to go out into the community and give presentations of how to be an author. It’s actually really fun to talk to all of these people who want to be authors. Most people think that you can’t make any money being an author—actually, you can. And you can do quite well. It’s just a matter of working really hard, having a little talent, and knowing how to market your books. All I’m doing with these presentations is giving people the know-how to make their dreams come true.
While it’s true that you don’t need a college education to be an author, I encourage everyone to be as educated as possible. I have a lot of experience and education that most people don’t, and that’s what gives me an edge in writing. I’ve lived in places as obscure as Tehachapi, California and other places as large as Salt Lake City, Utah. I hold three different college degrees. I practice two different martial arts. I think I’ve tried every life experience that came my direction. All of that is incorporated into my books, and that’s what gives reality to my worlds and characters.
Even if I abruptly stop selling books tomorrow—which I don’t see happening—I would still continue to write. Creating characters and worlds is that much fun. Once you start, you become quickly addicted.
I spent three years trying to publish my book, Jaunten, the old fashioned way. The problem was my story was outside of the norm for young adult fantasy – it didn’t have vampires or the supernatural in it, it was clean enough to earn a PG rating, and there wasn’t any dark overlord to defeat. No literary agent would pick it up because it didn’t fit the “fantasy formula” that all of the popular books did.
I put the idea of having my book published off to the side for a while as I finished a Bachelors in English at Middle Tennessee State University. But as I worked on my third degree, the idea of being published came back to me. This time, while working as a paralegal, I had a better grasp of the laws involved of doing self-publishing. For six months, I did a great deal of research in how to do self-publishing the debt-free way.
It was hard. I was working full time, going to school full time, and living on my own. I never really had a break. I was always working on something. At times I felt like my brain would just go into meltdown from having to learn so many different things to make my idea work.
After six months, I thought I knew enough to publish myself. I put Jaunten out as an ebook, created a website and forum so that fans could communicate with me, and spread the word as best I could. Within three months, I was selling internationally. Within six months, I was making enough to quit my day job and sit at home, writing full time.
After six months of writing, publishing, and building up a reputation, I started to be approached by other people wanting to emulate what I did. I soon realized that there was a niche out there waiting for me to fill it—a place where original fiction could be published and released into the world. As of February 2012, I started my own publishing house, called Raconteur House. Since that point I have signed on four additional authors (not including yours truly) and am attracting more in a steady stream.
I have continued to write and publish the rest of the series through my House. When I’m not writing or editing, I like to go out into the community and give presentations of how to be an author. It’s actually really fun to talk to all of these people who want to be authors. Most people think that you can’t make any money being an author—actually, you can. And you can do quite well. It’s just a matter of working really hard, having a little talent, and knowing how to market your books. All I’m doing with these presentations is giving people the know-how to make their dreams come true.
While it’s true that you don’t need a college education to be an author, I encourage everyone to be as educated as possible. I have a lot of experience and education that most people don’t, and that’s what gives me an edge in writing. I’ve lived in places as obscure as Tehachapi, California and other places as large as Salt Lake City, Utah. I hold three different college degrees. I practice two different martial arts. I think I’ve tried every life experience that came my direction. All of that is incorporated into my books, and that’s what gives reality to my worlds and characters.
Even if I abruptly stop selling books tomorrow—which I don’t see happening—I would still continue to write. Creating characters and worlds is that much fun. Once you start, you become quickly addicted.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 3, 2025
3.5 stars. One of my favourite series that I indulge in whenever I need something light to read. Its slightly humorous, murder mysteries, and lots of chocolate. Also magic, talking cats.
September 3, 2025
Content:
Profanity: Mild. going from memory; at least two h***, and two B******, but could be one or two more.
Violence: Moderate. This is a murder mystery/procedural book. There are multiple murders that include strangulation, stabbing, shooting, and beheading. Each murder is described only in factual terms for the policeman to discuss how to catch perpetrators. All of these murders are described after the fact, so none happen 'on screen'. There are also some burns, broken bones, and bruises depicted.
Sexual: High Mild. There are a few kisses on head/lips, all chaste and in greeting/farewell/comfort. Some talk of wedding and engagements. There are a few mentions of 'sex workers' and side characters who are 'handsy' but nothing on-screen. specifically (mild spoiler)
Triggers: This mystery deals with serial killer murders, it's more intense in that respect that previous books since the culprit is obviously sociopathic/psychopathic.
Well, I wasn't expecting to feel like reading the mystery/murder aspect of this one could've been an episode from Criminal Minds, but here we are. That said, it's not as intense as Criminal Minds due to the focus being on Jamie and Henri rather than the psychology and profiling of the killer.
Still, though, it wasn't as enjoyable because of that serial killer aspect where people aren't people, they are objects. Not entertaining to me, just depressing.
Thank heavens then that the book is broken up by felix shenanigans, Wedding preparations, day-to-day job funnies, and a bunch of one-liners that got me snorting!
While this isn't my favorite of the case files, it's still fun to see the cast I've come to love and how dynamics are growing and changing. The most fun parts for me are how the characters react to the crazy stuff that gets put in their path. Regina always gets a mad-on for something in the plot and uses her power for awesome comeuppance moments, Jamie still bribes people with Breakfast Burritos and food in general, and Henri and Sherard still pull all-nighters trying to create new spells (their bromance is beautiful and hilarious), and Eddy's random moments are always entertaining.
The pace in this was a bit meandering and it was wicked hard to get into until I hit about 40% and the crew finally figured out what was going on (good job Eddy) with their murder scenes. The way that the author took cues from games like Clue and Mancala was interesting, making them over for Kingston was fun if morbid. The "Body" game for children really made my eyebrows raise. It made for a good launchpad for a grisly serial murder spree though.
According to the author, there's one more book in the series and "maaaybe a surprise" which made me wonder if she's got ideas for a spinoff. Who knows? I'm assuming the series will end with the wedding. We'll see how she wraps it all up and hopefully leaves me satisfied.
Good addition to the series. Not my favorite. My favorites are typically the least insidious ones (Grimoires and Where to Find Them makes me smile every time). I guess now I just get to wait for the next audiobook, as I think at least two more will be out before the last book gets published, though I hope for more!
Profanity: Mild. going from memory; at least two h***, and two B******, but could be one or two more.
Violence: Moderate. This is a murder mystery/procedural book. There are multiple murders that include strangulation, stabbing, shooting, and beheading. Each murder is described only in factual terms for the policeman to discuss how to catch perpetrators. All of these murders are described after the fact, so none happen 'on screen'. There are also some burns, broken bones, and bruises depicted.
Sexual: High Mild. There are a few kisses on head/lips, all chaste and in greeting/farewell/comfort. Some talk of wedding and engagements. There are a few mentions of 'sex workers' and side characters who are 'handsy' but nothing on-screen. specifically (mild spoiler)
Triggers: This mystery deals with serial killer murders, it's more intense in that respect that previous books since the culprit is obviously sociopathic/psychopathic.
Well, I wasn't expecting to feel like reading the mystery/murder aspect of this one could've been an episode from Criminal Minds, but here we are. That said, it's not as intense as Criminal Minds due to the focus being on Jamie and Henri rather than the psychology and profiling of the killer.
Still, though, it wasn't as enjoyable because of that serial killer aspect where people aren't people, they are objects. Not entertaining to me, just depressing.
Thank heavens then that the book is broken up by felix shenanigans, Wedding preparations, day-to-day job funnies, and a bunch of one-liners that got me snorting!
While this isn't my favorite of the case files, it's still fun to see the cast I've come to love and how dynamics are growing and changing. The most fun parts for me are how the characters react to the crazy stuff that gets put in their path. Regina always gets a mad-on for something in the plot and uses her power for awesome comeuppance moments, Jamie still bribes people with Breakfast Burritos and food in general, and Henri and Sherard still pull all-nighters trying to create new spells (their bromance is beautiful and hilarious), and Eddy's random moments are always entertaining.
The pace in this was a bit meandering and it was wicked hard to get into until I hit about 40% and the crew finally figured out what was going on (good job Eddy) with their murder scenes. The way that the author took cues from games like Clue and Mancala was interesting, making them over for Kingston was fun if morbid. The "Body" game for children really made my eyebrows raise. It made for a good launchpad for a grisly serial murder spree though.
According to the author, there's one more book in the series and "maaaybe a surprise" which made me wonder if she's got ideas for a spinoff. Who knows? I'm assuming the series will end with the wedding. We'll see how she wraps it all up and hopefully leaves me satisfied.
Good addition to the series. Not my favorite. My favorites are typically the least insidious ones (Grimoires and Where to Find Them makes me smile every time). I guess now I just get to wait for the next audiobook, as I think at least two more will be out before the last book gets published, though I hope for more!
September 13, 2025
Goodness, just one more book left! I'm so excited to see how everything will end. These characters are so easy to love, I cannot wait to see their happy ending.
January 23, 2026
I started reading this series on account of the mystery aspect. And, I admit, the 'fantasy' aspect also appealed, but I didn't have a good feel for whether it would ultimately run 'cozy' or 'thriller', featuring, as it does, a displaced FBI agent who, it turns out, pretty much has super powers in the world she finds herself. Well, it definitely isn't 'thriller', though not precisely cozy either. What it absolutely DOES have is generally well drawn and likable characters and you can be sure the good guys will win and the bad guys will get their comeuppance.
Now, some might say that it's all too rosy of a vision of a society that is essentially modern and complex. But if I want to read about bad stuff in the real world I'll look at the news. For my recreational reading, I prefer to spend time with people I feel like I actually like who are acting with a positive moral compass despite having a lot of power. My only quibble is that, throughout the series, chapters may be from one or the other of the main characters points of view. I would prefer that they more often be clearly titled as such since -- as the series has progressed -- their voices have become very similar. So it can take a few paragraphs each chapter to figure out whose head we're in.
This particular volume starts with a brutal and inexplicable murder: that of an elder businesswoman of the city who seems to be loved by everyone. They literally can't find one person to say anything bad about her and even the grandson who will inherit admits he's not all that interested in running the business. Other killings, also of prominent folks with generally excellent reputations, have similar characteristics and it seems there's a serial killer (or killers) on the loose. But a sharp observation by one of the young agents puts them on the right track.
So: definitely worth reading the series. Start at the beginning for sure. She's stated she just plans one more book in the series (the 12th) and it's due out this year. So now's a good time to start.
Now, some might say that it's all too rosy of a vision of a society that is essentially modern and complex. But if I want to read about bad stuff in the real world I'll look at the news. For my recreational reading, I prefer to spend time with people I feel like I actually like who are acting with a positive moral compass despite having a lot of power. My only quibble is that, throughout the series, chapters may be from one or the other of the main characters points of view. I would prefer that they more often be clearly titled as such since -- as the series has progressed -- their voices have become very similar. So it can take a few paragraphs each chapter to figure out whose head we're in.
This particular volume starts with a brutal and inexplicable murder: that of an elder businesswoman of the city who seems to be loved by everyone. They literally can't find one person to say anything bad about her and even the grandson who will inherit admits he's not all that interested in running the business. Other killings, also of prominent folks with generally excellent reputations, have similar characteristics and it seems there's a serial killer (or killers) on the loose. But a sharp observation by one of the young agents puts them on the right track.
So: definitely worth reading the series. Start at the beginning for sure. She's stated she just plans one more book in the series (the 12th) and it's due out this year. So now's a good time to start.
October 12, 2025
fabulous work, heading to the finish
Rating: 5✨⭐️
All Fun and Games is the penultimate book and it’s a fantastic read. As Honor Raconteur gets closer to the series finale next year, the characters are more settled in their respective roles and relationships. That’s never been more satisfying and clear than seeing Jamie and Henri finally engaged and preparing for their wedding and future plans.
Jamie’s Queen’s Own are functional and adding to their numbers and the core group we’ve gotten to know so well. And that brings us to this complicated series of murders that Jamie, Henri and the Queen’s Own must investigate.
Cruel, seemingly unrelated, and yet Jamie can feel there’s something tying these horrifying acts together.
Alongside the investigations, the couple are moving forward with their new life together. Looking for new housing, and oncoming nuptials.
There’s wonderful twists and heartbreaking turns. And a lovely little end.
The last book in the series will be published next year and I look forward to seeing how Jamie and Henri‘s remarkable journey comes to a close.
Highly recommended.
No sexual content. A sweet kiss, nothing more. Magical energy, crime investigation and science fiction. Terrific work.
This is Honor Raconteur also known as AJ. Sherwood. A must read no matter what name she’s writing under.
Cover by Katie Griffin
The Case Files of Henri Davenforth (11 book series to date):
Magic and the Shinigami Detective #1
Charms and Death and Explosions (oh my!) #2
Magic Outside the Box #3
Breaking and Entering 101 #4
Three Charms for Murder #5
Grimoires and Where to Find Them #6
Death Over the Garden Wall #7
This Potion is da Bomb #8
All In A Name #9
A Matter of Secrets and Spies #10
All Fun and Games #11
Rating: 5✨⭐️
All Fun and Games is the penultimate book and it’s a fantastic read. As Honor Raconteur gets closer to the series finale next year, the characters are more settled in their respective roles and relationships. That’s never been more satisfying and clear than seeing Jamie and Henri finally engaged and preparing for their wedding and future plans.
Jamie’s Queen’s Own are functional and adding to their numbers and the core group we’ve gotten to know so well. And that brings us to this complicated series of murders that Jamie, Henri and the Queen’s Own must investigate.
Cruel, seemingly unrelated, and yet Jamie can feel there’s something tying these horrifying acts together.
Alongside the investigations, the couple are moving forward with their new life together. Looking for new housing, and oncoming nuptials.
There’s wonderful twists and heartbreaking turns. And a lovely little end.
The last book in the series will be published next year and I look forward to seeing how Jamie and Henri‘s remarkable journey comes to a close.
Highly recommended.
No sexual content. A sweet kiss, nothing more. Magical energy, crime investigation and science fiction. Terrific work.
This is Honor Raconteur also known as AJ. Sherwood. A must read no matter what name she’s writing under.
Cover by Katie Griffin
The Case Files of Henri Davenforth (11 book series to date):
Magic and the Shinigami Detective #1
Charms and Death and Explosions (oh my!) #2
Magic Outside the Box #3
Breaking and Entering 101 #4
Three Charms for Murder #5
Grimoires and Where to Find Them #6
Death Over the Garden Wall #7
This Potion is da Bomb #8
All In A Name #9
A Matter of Secrets and Spies #10
All Fun and Games #11
January 8, 2026
All Fun and Games is everything I’ve come to love about the Case Files of Henri Davenforth series — comforting, clever, and quietly delightful. By now, Jamie and Henri feel less like fictional characters and more like old friends I’m always happy to spend time with, and slipping back into their world feels like coming home.
This series easily sits at the very top of my cozy mystery list, and one of its greatest strengths is its alternate-universe premise. Seeing our own world — and especially Earthian technology — through fresh, childlike eyes never gets old. The way characters discover things like television or pizza and immediately declare them essential to life is endlessly funny… and honestly, deeply relatable. (They are correct. TV and pizza are essential.)
Beyond the mystery itself, what makes this book shine is the warmth of its characters and the gentle joy threaded through the storytelling. It’s light without being shallow, familiar without being boring, and clever without ever feeling showy.
I adore this series, and while I’m genuinely sad there’s only one book left to look forward to later this year, I’m also grateful for how consistently wonderful these stories have been. Here’s hoping I can one day find another series that captures the same magic — and characters — as well as this one does.
This series easily sits at the very top of my cozy mystery list, and one of its greatest strengths is its alternate-universe premise. Seeing our own world — and especially Earthian technology — through fresh, childlike eyes never gets old. The way characters discover things like television or pizza and immediately declare them essential to life is endlessly funny… and honestly, deeply relatable. (They are correct. TV and pizza are essential.)
Beyond the mystery itself, what makes this book shine is the warmth of its characters and the gentle joy threaded through the storytelling. It’s light without being shallow, familiar without being boring, and clever without ever feeling showy.
I adore this series, and while I’m genuinely sad there’s only one book left to look forward to later this year, I’m also grateful for how consistently wonderful these stories have been. Here’s hoping I can one day find another series that captures the same magic — and characters — as well as this one does.
August 16, 2025
All Fun and Games is another exciting installment in Honor Raconteur’s Henri Davenforth series, blending fantasy, mystery, and humor in a way that feels both refreshing and familiar. As always, Henri’s sharp intellect and witty dialogue kept me entertained, while the imaginative worldbuilding added a layer of charm that makes this series stand out in its genre.
What I particularly enjoyed in this installment was the balance between character growth and plot twists. The banter between Henri and his companions felt genuine and often laugh-out-loud funny, but beneath the humor there were clever mysteries and surprising turns that held my attention throughout. Raconteur has a gift for pacing—never letting the story drag while still giving enough detail to keep the world immersive.
If I had one critique, it would be that the resolution wrapped up a little quickly compared to the buildup. A few more pages to explore the aftermath would have given even more weight to the climax. That said, the charm of the characters and the wit of the writing more than made up for it.
Overall, All Fun and Games is a clever, lighthearted, and thoroughly enjoyable read. It shows why this series continues to delight fans, combining mystery, fantasy, and humor into a truly engaging package.
What I particularly enjoyed in this installment was the balance between character growth and plot twists. The banter between Henri and his companions felt genuine and often laugh-out-loud funny, but beneath the humor there were clever mysteries and surprising turns that held my attention throughout. Raconteur has a gift for pacing—never letting the story drag while still giving enough detail to keep the world immersive.
If I had one critique, it would be that the resolution wrapped up a little quickly compared to the buildup. A few more pages to explore the aftermath would have given even more weight to the climax. That said, the charm of the characters and the wit of the writing more than made up for it.
Overall, All Fun and Games is a clever, lighthearted, and thoroughly enjoyable read. It shows why this series continues to delight fans, combining mystery, fantasy, and humor into a truly engaging package.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
Another great read
This was my first time reading this book. I finished it in a day. I’ve read the other books in the series multiple times and have bought all the audio versions currently available. I enjoy the banter between the female mc and Henri. All of her friends and coworkers are interesting in themselves. I wish I could be invited to one of Jamie’s ladies nights! Although I still like the series, it’s lost some of the charm for me as she brings in more technology from earth. There’s not as much “stranger reacting to an alien world” feel. In this particular book I often had issues figuring out which MC was speaking when a new chapter started. I would figure it out eventually, but had to go back and reread several times. Also, there are a lot of side characters and hard to keep track of who’s who sometimes. If a person picked up the series starting with this book, the mystery would be interesting but they would lose a lot of enjoyment due to not having much information about the other co workers and friends in the story. I’m planning to re read the series soon. I will be sad when it’s done.
This was my first time reading this book. I finished it in a day. I’ve read the other books in the series multiple times and have bought all the audio versions currently available. I enjoy the banter between the female mc and Henri. All of her friends and coworkers are interesting in themselves. I wish I could be invited to one of Jamie’s ladies nights! Although I still like the series, it’s lost some of the charm for me as she brings in more technology from earth. There’s not as much “stranger reacting to an alien world” feel. In this particular book I often had issues figuring out which MC was speaking when a new chapter started. I would figure it out eventually, but had to go back and reread several times. Also, there are a lot of side characters and hard to keep track of who’s who sometimes. If a person picked up the series starting with this book, the mystery would be interesting but they would lose a lot of enjoyment due to not having much information about the other co workers and friends in the story. I’m planning to re read the series soon. I will be sad when it’s done.
August 10, 2025
Honor Raconteur has done it again!
Welcome to the 11th installment of the Henri Davenforth Case Files, wherein Henri Davenforth and his (now fiance) Jamie Edwards solve Kingston’s most unsolvable crimes.
First off, a trigger warning. This was by far the most disturbing case they’ve worked on. Think serial killer. So TW for evil. No SA against women and no violence against children. Still, just a heads up.
There were so many twists and turns I didn’t expect! In a short span of time, multiple people have shown up dead. The only thing they have in common is that they had absolutely no enemies…and someone is REALLY good with a cleaning charm, so there’s no trace evidence either.
It’s a race to stay ahead of the killer when nobody knows who’s next!
I liked this. I did have to take a break or two to kinda calm down sometimes, but Jamie and Henri are delightful, as always. I like that, serial killers aside, the book is clean- no language, no spice, no graphic violence on screen.
#CaseFilesOfHenriDavenforth
Welcome to the 11th installment of the Henri Davenforth Case Files, wherein Henri Davenforth and his (now fiance) Jamie Edwards solve Kingston’s most unsolvable crimes.
First off, a trigger warning. This was by far the most disturbing case they’ve worked on. Think serial killer. So TW for evil. No SA against women and no violence against children. Still, just a heads up.
There were so many twists and turns I didn’t expect! In a short span of time, multiple people have shown up dead. The only thing they have in common is that they had absolutely no enemies…and someone is REALLY good with a cleaning charm, so there’s no trace evidence either.
It’s a race to stay ahead of the killer when nobody knows who’s next!
I liked this. I did have to take a break or two to kinda calm down sometimes, but Jamie and Henri are delightful, as always. I like that, serial killers aside, the book is clean- no language, no spice, no graphic violence on screen.
#CaseFilesOfHenriDavenforth
August 2, 2025
A wonderful installment in this alternate world series
Jaime, an FBI agent, is pulled away from Earth to another world where magic works. There are guns and other things and what is very similar to 1860s England. Jamie overcomes her torturer and escapes. She meets some magicians at work for the queen, and becomes a cop. A very special cop. This book is full of very interesting twists, wonderful humor, three talking cats, orcs, cobalts, werewolves, and much more. These stories are so much fun to read. I'm very sad that there will only be one more book because they're truly wonderful. The problem with ending a book by Honor Raconteur is that I don't have to wait on a new book. I think I have read all of your series. I may have missed one somewhere. I don't even like steampunk, but the people on this alternate world have done a lot of the same things with magic. This is just really enjoyable to read. I will definitely read the next book in this series.
Jaime, an FBI agent, is pulled away from Earth to another world where magic works. There are guns and other things and what is very similar to 1860s England. Jamie overcomes her torturer and escapes. She meets some magicians at work for the queen, and becomes a cop. A very special cop. This book is full of very interesting twists, wonderful humor, three talking cats, orcs, cobalts, werewolves, and much more. These stories are so much fun to read. I'm very sad that there will only be one more book because they're truly wonderful. The problem with ending a book by Honor Raconteur is that I don't have to wait on a new book. I think I have read all of your series. I may have missed one somewhere. I don't even like steampunk, but the people on this alternate world have done a lot of the same things with magic. This is just really enjoyable to read. I will definitely read the next book in this series.
August 6, 2025
This is book 11 of what will be a 12-book series. There are two main characters: Jamie Edwards is a police detective from our world who was (involuntarily) transported to a world that has a lot in common with c.1900 Earth, aside from the prevalence of magic and of multiple sapient species (e.g. Elves, Dwarves, etc.). Henri Davenforth is a mage with a forensic specialty. The books are essentially police procedurals.
I'm enjoying the series. (Given that I'm eleven books into the series and still reading, that should be likely.) The author appears to be having fun.
I find it distracting that with each book, the milieu resembles Earth (modern Earth in some respects, early-twentieth-century Earth in others) increasingly and uncritically. (E.g., a groom is being fitted for a tuxedo for a wedding. E.g., local characters enjoy English-language puns and wordplay.)
I'm enjoying the series. (Given that I'm eleven books into the series and still reading, that should be likely.) The author appears to be having fun.
I find it distracting that with each book, the milieu resembles Earth (modern Earth in some respects, early-twentieth-century Earth in others) increasingly and uncritically. (E.g., a groom is being fitted for a tuxedo for a wedding. E.g., local characters enjoy English-language puns and wordplay.)
August 10, 2025
Crime, Clues, and a Dash of Magic
Another engaging instalment in the series, All Fun and Games keeps the momentum going with an intriguing crime at its core. The investigation itself is well-paced, with the “group think” approach to solving the mystery adding both energy and a satisfying sense of teamwork. The blend of magic and forensic science remains one of the series’ most enjoyable hallmarks, and it’s put to good use here.
There’s some progress on Jamie and Henri’s wedding plans, and the felixes get strong, memorable roles, adding charm and character depth. However, romance fans may notice there’s not a great deal of intimate time between Jamie and Henri in this one. Overall, it’s another entertaining, clever, and magically tinged mystery that will please long-time readers.
Another engaging instalment in the series, All Fun and Games keeps the momentum going with an intriguing crime at its core. The investigation itself is well-paced, with the “group think” approach to solving the mystery adding both energy and a satisfying sense of teamwork. The blend of magic and forensic science remains one of the series’ most enjoyable hallmarks, and it’s put to good use here.
There’s some progress on Jamie and Henri’s wedding plans, and the felixes get strong, memorable roles, adding charm and character depth. However, romance fans may notice there’s not a great deal of intimate time between Jamie and Henri in this one. Overall, it’s another entertaining, clever, and magically tinged mystery that will please long-time readers.
August 12, 2025
I loved it! With way higher stakes, this was a bit more complex than usual, but I'm here for it. Jamie is really coming into her "Own" with her own unit that parallels her previous job on earth, and I love how it feels like "magical NCIS". I was a die-hard fan, and it's fun to see the author obviously was too, with all the name dropping in earlier books.
Henri and Jamie both have some awesome badass moments, and of course kiiiiiiittieeees!!!! Don't be confused; Clint, Phil, and Tasha are the real stars of the show....
I can't wait for the next book to come out, it's killing me that I have to wait a whole year :(((((((
And there's only one more in the series! (˶╥︿╥)
I bought my ebook copy from Honor's website. They also have cool merch!
Henri and Jamie both have some awesome badass moments, and of course kiiiiiiittieeees!!!! Don't be confused; Clint, Phil, and Tasha are the real stars of the show....
I can't wait for the next book to come out, it's killing me that I have to wait a whole year :(((((((
And there's only one more in the series! (˶╥︿╥)
I bought my ebook copy from Honor's website. They also have cool merch!
August 12, 2025
I do not routinely give 5-stars, but this series and this book hits all the right buttons for me. I fully enjoy the characters, the plots, and the world building. Yes, there have been adjustments as Jamie has been on this world for a few years now and Ellie has invented many "Earth items". I still see the differences laid out well by Raconteur. There are different species, approaches to solving crimes, and magic. Not as much as in early books, but thank goodness there has been character growth too. This plot line is sadly dark in some areas but also has some laugh out loud (for me) humor. Totally an enjoyable escape and I plan to go back and re-read the series again after the last book (so sad) comes out next year. Highly recommended.
August 31, 2025
Honor Raconteur's All Fun and Games, Jamie is thrown into chaos when the body count rises and murder scenes are mysteriously wiped clean by magical charms. This fantasy-meets-mystery pits the Queen's Own investigator against a seemingly impossible puzzle, where every clue points to a connection that no one else can see. Raconteur expertly crafts a tale that promises high stakes and a race against the clock, as the murderer's next target may be dangerously close to home. The urban fantasy setting, combined with steampunk elements and a paranormal slant, creates an imaginative backdrop for a gripping crime novel. This is an exciting read for anyone who enjoys a fantastical whodunit with a clever and determined investigator.
September 20, 2025
Fantastic series
I love this series of books and have in fact just re-read them. The characters have grown and changed over the series, just as people do in real life, Henri in particular has changed so much over the course of the series. Whilst Jamie and Henri are coming up to their wedding shortly these are definitely not romance novels, they continue to be mystery/fantasy books with just enough romance to move the characters lives onwards. So happy to have more of Penny and Gerring as well. The writing is incredible and I would highly recommend reading this series., in fact all books by this author.
I love this series of books and have in fact just re-read them. The characters have grown and changed over the series, just as people do in real life, Henri in particular has changed so much over the course of the series. Whilst Jamie and Henri are coming up to their wedding shortly these are definitely not romance novels, they continue to be mystery/fantasy books with just enough romance to move the characters lives onwards. So happy to have more of Penny and Gerring as well. The writing is incredible and I would highly recommend reading this series., in fact all books by this author.
August 23, 2025
well written serial murder mystery
As usual, Honor Ranconteur has produced a well-written tale that sweeps the reader along. The only criticism one can offer is her lamentable lack of knowledge when she discusses the evidence regarding the automatic pistol found as part of the baker killing. This was at best a poor regurgitation of a flawed set of “facts” best left to half-baked Hollywood movies. Otherwise, the story is very good, and reasonably logical without pedantry. The inception of comic relief in the form of character notes and the Felixes makes the story a joy.
As usual, Honor Ranconteur has produced a well-written tale that sweeps the reader along. The only criticism one can offer is her lamentable lack of knowledge when she discusses the evidence regarding the automatic pistol found as part of the baker killing. This was at best a poor regurgitation of a flawed set of “facts” best left to half-baked Hollywood movies. Otherwise, the story is very good, and reasonably logical without pedantry. The inception of comic relief in the form of character notes and the Felixes makes the story a joy.
July 29, 2025
The author has given us, as always, an excellently intriguingly fun read that reads more strongly like a police procedural than the previous books in this series. It is as if the author had Jamie Edwards channeling Eve Dallas in one of Eve's more messy and challenging murder mysteries. Does this mean that Henri is Jamie's Rourke? I can make a case for that, despite the lack of movie star looks.
August 1, 2025
Games, yes, not so much fun -- except maybe for the kitties, so much sniffies! And for readers of course.
Jamie, Henri, and their crew in the Queens Own have too many murders to deal with, with one frustrating factor in common making the crime scenes nearly bare traces.
What connects them and why? It's not the victims. And how will Jamie ever get to her bridal dress appointment at this rate?
This series is a lot of fun. I recommend reading others before this one.
Jamie, Henri, and their crew in the Queens Own have too many murders to deal with, with one frustrating factor in common making the crime scenes nearly bare traces.
What connects them and why? It's not the victims. And how will Jamie ever get to her bridal dress appointment at this rate?
This series is a lot of fun. I recommend reading others before this one.
dnf
August 10, 2025I’ve really enjoyed this series up till now, but jumping into this book, I don’t get any of the sense of otherness and wonder you expect with a portal fantasy. It feels like Jamie has pretty thoroughly colonized her adopted world. For the most part, it might as well be our world with a few romantasy elements thrown in. It will be a fun read for a lot of people, but I don’t think it’s for me anymore…
August 11, 2025
As ever superb
These are essential.reading so when I saw it was.out I quickly finished the book.I was reading and dived in. Great to.back.In Jamie and Henry's world ( not forgetting the wonderful Felixes). This was a complex case slthough I got the perps from quite early on. It was a great read which I thoroughly enjoyed. Great supporting cast of characters and great inventions. Think.I will.do a full 're read before the final.book. It was indeed all fun and games .
These are essential.reading so when I saw it was.out I quickly finished the book.I was reading and dived in. Great to.back.In Jamie and Henry's world ( not forgetting the wonderful Felixes). This was a complex case slthough I got the perps from quite early on. It was a great read which I thoroughly enjoyed. Great supporting cast of characters and great inventions. Think.I will.do a full 're read before the final.book. It was indeed all fun and games .
August 12, 2025
Not so fun games
What a great series! However it is tough waiting for new books! This story had a lot of great suspense and interesting moments. Finding out about the games was an interesting twist. I love the different characters and subplots going on. I also really appreciate that the author ties up the loose ends at the end of the story. I look forward to the next book in the series.
What a great series! However it is tough waiting for new books! This story had a lot of great suspense and interesting moments. Finding out about the games was an interesting twist. I love the different characters and subplots going on. I also really appreciate that the author ties up the loose ends at the end of the story. I look forward to the next book in the series.
August 27, 2025
Another winner!!!!!
This was an awesome case! I'm glad to see Jamie and Henry moving along in their relationship. I'm a little confused about what Jamie can and can't pass through the portal. A laptop and kindles, and solar power generator but not board games or a crock pot? Is there a weight limit? Size limit? And I thought it was every 4 months not 6 months. Just my brain trying to place things. Either way I can't wait for the next one!!!!
This was an awesome case! I'm glad to see Jamie and Henry moving along in their relationship. I'm a little confused about what Jamie can and can't pass through the portal. A laptop and kindles, and solar power generator but not board games or a crock pot? Is there a weight limit? Size limit? And I thought it was every 4 months not 6 months. Just my brain trying to place things. Either way I can't wait for the next one!!!!
August 29, 2025
great storytelling
I don’t know anything about this writer and came across the first story in this series by accident. It was really a different type of story and at first I was not sure if I even liked it. But by the middle of the book I was hooked. I have read all of them now. I hope for more. Take a chance of this author and you wont be disappointed . Very interesting storyline .
I don’t know anything about this writer and came across the first story in this series by accident. It was really a different type of story and at first I was not sure if I even liked it. But by the middle of the book I was hooked. I have read all of them now. I hope for more. Take a chance of this author and you wont be disappointed . Very interesting storyline .
October 24, 2025
Good book. entertaining. Book 11 of a series. Need to read in order. There are some bloody crime scenes but the gore isn't the goal.
Some books in this series are better than others. Raconteur's artifactor series is better than this one but I was happy to see this book available to read. I also liked the human familiar series.
Overall the writing is fun, mentally aware, and high quality.
She's written a lot. Thanks to her for writing! Ive read most of the books!
Some books in this series are better than others. Raconteur's artifactor series is better than this one but I was happy to see this book available to read. I also liked the human familiar series.
Overall the writing is fun, mentally aware, and high quality.
She's written a lot. Thanks to her for writing! Ive read most of the books!
August 3, 2025
Excellent as always. Seriously, someone turn this series into a tv procedural.
Another great addition to the series. As always each book has a separate case that is resolved at the end. I did figure out the who done it pretty much right away. However, that’s generally unusual for me and it didn’t distract from me enjoying it. Please Hollywood, make this into a TV show.
Another great addition to the series. As always each book has a separate case that is resolved at the end. I did figure out the who done it pretty much right away. However, that’s generally unusual for me and it didn’t distract from me enjoying it. Please Hollywood, make this into a TV show.
August 4, 2025
Back to Form
I was disappointed in the last book or two in the series: too many characters, not enough Henri, and definitely not enough of the Felixes. All Fun and Games fixes all that in a creative mystery that wasn’t difficult to figure out but was still an entertaining read. I’m sad that the next book in the series will be the last, but I’m sure it will be a doozy.
I was disappointed in the last book or two in the series: too many characters, not enough Henri, and definitely not enough of the Felixes. All Fun and Games fixes all that in a creative mystery that wasn’t difficult to figure out but was still an entertaining read. I’m sad that the next book in the series will be the last, but I’m sure it will be a doozy.
August 11, 2025
A pleasant sequel
Nice to see familiar characters doing their thing. Another murder mystery in an alternate universe where magic is plentiful.
In previous books I had not paid much attention to the diversity of species, it was encouraged to see all the different creatures, were-, Elf, Kobold, etc. living and working together.
Nice to see familiar characters doing their thing. Another murder mystery in an alternate universe where magic is plentiful.
In previous books I had not paid much attention to the diversity of species, it was encouraged to see all the different creatures, were-, Elf, Kobold, etc. living and working together.
August 30, 2025
Eddy helps again!
There is a random group of murders that seem to be connected, but the victims are different ages, genders, and statuses. They're killed using different methods. It will take Jamie and her team of crack detectives to solve these cases, and could there be even more?
There is a random group of murders that seem to be connected, but the victims are different ages, genders, and statuses. They're killed using different methods. It will take Jamie and her team of crack detectives to solve these cases, and could there be even more?
November 28, 2025
It took me too long to finish this book as life kept interfering with my reading. Go figure. And what a read this was. So much going on so many murders that I was tempted to make a list. Never fear, Jamie, Henri, felixes and the rest of the crew were on to all of it and, of course, the good guys won. Also, so fun to read about Jamie and Henri and their lives together. Feels good.
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