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Someone left Jamie a prezzie and she would like to return it with a no thank you.

It all starts with a dead Robert Martin, the man who killed RM Burtchell. Jamie doesn’t know how, but it’s obvious he was yanked out of high security prison, murdered, and dumped on her front doorsteps.

Now the situation is entirely out of control. Someone obviously wants her attention–her people are being targeted and hurt, they can’t catch a lead, and it’s bringing up Belladonna vibes.

Jamie would like to request a new plot device.

234 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 5, 2023

395 people are currently reading
460 people want to read

About the author

Honor Raconteur

62 books841 followers
Ever 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.

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5 stars
904 (60%)
4 stars
428 (28%)
3 stars
135 (9%)
2 stars
15 (1%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for farmwifetwo.
530 reviews17 followers
June 6, 2023
I have to give up. It's dull as ditch/dish water. My opinion only.

Report 04, 2nd paragraph "To start with, I showed them how to organize the information we had, which was notes and sketches at the moment. The pictures were developing, so we only had notes and sketches at the moment....."

I tend to get bored with unending descriptions. But.....
1 review
May 5, 2023
Wow

I have read and re read every book in the series. This one was was very different. The other books have been a fun romp; action, adventure, intrigue and humorous. All In A Name introduced something new to me ; sadness and a little fear. And have to say, it is my favorite of the series now. Enough so, that it actually prompted me to write a review. It doesn't disappoint. You won't regret reading it!
Profile Image for Eden.
2,218 reviews
May 6, 2023
2023 bk 160. I love this series and the newest book does not miss a beat in telling the story of a world in which magic and science are learning to work together. Raconteur is to be appreciated for the work she does in checking continuity, providing clues well provided but also hidden, and writing characters with whom the readers can empathize. Now - time to go read this through again.
Profile Image for Chetana.
975 reviews27 followers
January 2, 2024
3.5⭐️

I am so glad to be back in the world of Kingston with my dear friends Henri and Jamie and the rest of the gang. In this book, Jamie and Henri are both busy setting up their new department and getting the final touches done on it, basically training up the manpower when a case literally falls on their doorstep. It turns out to be a blast from the past in terms of the dead body and the person behind it.

While this book did have a mystery in terms of figuring out which person exactly was doing the crime, the team had an idea of who they were in general and why they were doing what they did. This book focused mainly on the drudgery of the case and the emotional and physical toll it took on the team, but especially Jamie. There was a bit of explanation of spell work that went over my head (just like it did Jamie's) which was a chore to read, but I liked that this series not only focuses on deductive reasoning to solve cases but also on good old fashioned footwork too.

While I like both Henri and Jamie and their POV's in this series I missed Henri's POV in this book quite. lot. While we did see his POV I just felt that this was more Jamie focused (for obvious reasons once you read the book) but a girl can hope for more Henri. This story was more plot focused and not relationship focused when it came to Henri and Jamie but I have high hopes for the next book.
120 reviews
May 8, 2023
Why?

We now have book nine in the Henri Davenforth Case Files series and still I fall for it every time. Somehow, HR has created a world that is similar but ‘off world’ to earth, magical/supernatural creatures live alongside humans, some of whom can perform magical actions others cannot and the world we have become a part of still draws us into itself with old favourite characters and a couple of new ones yet we still digest the story too fast. Why do we torture ourselves having to wait for the next case file.??
Profile Image for Debrac2014.
2,335 reviews21 followers
May 8, 2023
Very enjoyable! Chantel is a good addition!
Profile Image for Luci.
361 reviews26 followers
October 3, 2023
After reading all of the series published so far, I can definitely say the world is just a liiitle too conveniently similar to ours for my satisfaction and everything works out just a touch too conveniently, even with the understanding that things are going to end well for our MCs, but not so much that is ruins my enjoyment.

The characters, more than anything, are why I kept reading, but the mysteries are pretty solid and entertaining as well.

As a bonus, this series is well-edited, especially for something recommended to me by Amazon's algorithm.
41 reviews
May 9, 2023
DNF

DNF, so through with this series. Disappointed but can't really say I'm all that surprised. It was my curiosity surrounding the cases that kept me going but it was clear early on that it decided to dive headfirst down the drain along with everything else (tone, wrld building, inconsistencies, character dev, ALOT of suspended belief, etc)
Profile Image for Madelyn- The Squeaky Clean Reader.
385 reviews114 followers
May 16, 2023
The Plot: Jamie is left an unsavory prezzie on her front doorstep. As She and Henri work together to figure out who the present is from a series of unfortunate events seems to befall their loved ones.
As a rogue witch attacks those close to Jamie they must solve who the witch is and why she’s doing what she’s doing.
But they can’t figure out her name.
The scenes of the crime are bringing up unsavory memories for Jamie…
As Jamie confronts and continues to process her past and her experience when first on the planet, will she be able to emotionally deal with everything thrown at her?

The Writing
The emotional depth of this book was fantastic. This one was more emotional for Jamie as she had to revisit her experience with Belladonna, and had a few PTSD moments. It was good to see her finally dealing with some things that I felt like were glossed over in book one. I loved the depth that it brought to Jamie and the other characters.

Once again the side characters are pretty fantastic in this book. I love Seaton and seeing more of his life in this book as well. I wish there had been a bit more about Henri, but it didn’t fit with the plot which is understandable.

The Romance
Over the course of the series there has been a slow burn romance going on. The romance really wasn’t a big part of this book besides the main characters being in a committed relationship and supporting each other. There was a kiss or two, but they wasn’t much description, and nothing beyond kisses was alluded to. I did really enjoy the relationship building in this book and the depth given to it because of the emotional hardships.

Overall Theme and Message
Jamie went through some really hard things. I like that we see her struggling and yet having support from her village. I think this book is a great example of learning to deal with trauma from the past, having support from loved ones, and still moving forward with life even when you’re struggling. Great example for real life.

Age Recommendation
I would recommend this book and series for ages 14+ some of the fighting, and the crimes can be on the more series and scary side. This book specifically deals with more trauma and is a bit serious for younger audiences.

Things to be aware of
Jamie has a few PTSD episodes or two. We journey with her emotionally and those who have suffered physical abuse might find it triggering.

There are a few light swear words included.
Profile Image for Krista.
1,119 reviews30 followers
June 14, 2023
4 stars. I didn't get the sweet Henri/Jamie vibes that I was looking forward to. Yes, they are terrific but always in the midst of some traumatic emergency and they just don't catch a break!

9 books in and this one is probably the most personal since it goes back in time to Belladonna's capture and torture of Jamie. But how long will this go on without some closure? I am not as excited about future releases.

Since these books are more action based, I don't really get as many highlights as I would have thought for how well written these books are.
Jamie and Henri:
“Are you sleeping?”
Without opening my eyes, I responded to Henri, “No, I’m training to die.”
He snorted because the man knew my sense of humor well at this point.

This particular boo seemed filled with slang and sayings, more than normal? Not sure but I did like this one:
"Now, this lady is more than unhinged. Probably no longer connected to the doorframe."

I do like some of Jamie's wry humor:
I lay on Sherard’s office floor in the royal mage tower in a sprawled eagle formation. Why? Because the carpet and I were friends. His red-and-gold carpet was nice and plush, to start with. Secondly, it wasn’t demanding answers from me. Thirdly, it wasn’t trying to attack me. My bar was low this afternoon.

And Jamie has made a fried out of Sherrards Mum and Henri is worried:
“You say this but there’s a little frown of worry on your face.” I wrinkled my nose. He had me there.
“There’s been a worrisome amount of cackling whenever they’re planning.”

Maybe continue? Yes- who am I kidding. Its just really drawn out at this point...

2,839 reviews3 followers
August 31, 2025
Highly recommended. Highly addictive.

Rating: 5✨⭐️

In a series full of just outstanding books and incredible writing, this ranks among the top. There’s several reasons but high among them are the way that Raconteur has handled Jamie’s PTSD and reoccurring trauma from her past torture and kidnapping at the hands of the dark witch Belladonna.

That’s a huge element of this book as murder victims are delivered directly to Jamie’s door and the villain seems to have direct ties to the deceased Belladonna.

Great suspense, high magical energy and action! We get a new fantastic character in Chanty! New “old “ inventions. And waiting for Henri to still pop the question. More suspense.

No spice at all. Just mild kisses and on to more action. Fantastic characters and mysteries, some of which are built around actual obscure real cases.

Highly recommended. Highly addictive.

Love the covers.

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
Profile Image for Ann.
1,715 reviews
January 11, 2024
I continue to really enjoy this series. I like the people. I like that they care about each other. Yeah, they get into dangerous situations but not stupidly and they always get out of them -- often by some very out-of-the-box thinking or action. In short: quite fun!

In this one, Jamie, or maybe Henri, is apparently being targeted by a heretofore unknown and very powerful witch. Plus, her style is extremely unorthodox which is worrisome as that implies a connection to Belladonna -- the rogue which who'd brought Jamie to this world from present day Earth in the first place. That, as Jamie would note, was not a pleasant experience, although she has found a home for herself on her new world. Pretty quickly, the whole gang mobilize to figure out what's going on, how she's doing what she's doing, and, most importantly, how to stop her and protect Jamie and her friends -- hopefully before Jamie's PTSD and flashbacks really kick in.
476 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2023
Divine Davenforth Chronicle

Love this author no matter what pen name she uses. I’ve not read any story by her that hasn’t meet all of my top expectations. This book is right up there with the others; a great book in a great series. The storyline in well conceived and written. The characters are totally engaging and have a life and weight all of their own, even the villainess. The pace is cracking. Once started you can’t put it down. In this book we get to meet Seaton’s mother. She’s a delight. I almost said doozy; probably more accurate, but delight sounds better. Read the book and you’ll see exactly what I mean. I foresee lots of fun and mayhem in future novels. (I’m chuckling evilly at this thought.)
Seriously read the book. You won’t regret it. In fact read the whole series. It really is divine.
813 reviews8 followers
December 7, 2023
Well we got 9 books in before one that was a bit of a dud. Not bad. The characters are still good, but the plot was lacking on this one. I always enjoyed the mystery aspect of the previous books. What strange thing or new use of magic are we going to stumble upon next? This time there was very little in the way of "detecting" and the problem was solved (poorly) by brute force honestly. Also we can stop introducing increasingly powerful and eccentric characters now. The one-upmanship of it is getting old. And the increasing chaos of all the eccentric characters being together is trending in a direction of silliness that I'm wary of. I'm not a fan of chaotic characters for the sake of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,488 reviews4 followers
May 6, 2023
Again, I am without words because of the genius of Ms. Raconteur. I read the book in one sitting and I am sure I will be reading and rereading it until the next one. What a story! I can tell you that every chapter, every page, every word got me glued to the book and after following the wonderful , captivating plot, I loved how Ms. Raconteur solved everything. I don't want to spoil anything for you, but you need to clear your schedule or if not, at least hide to read it, because you would need the time to slowly enjoy this jewel without any interruptions. One of best, if not the best in the series so far. I just need book 10 now please...
Profile Image for Min.
411 reviews28 followers
May 6, 2023
Hmm. The beginning was more… grim, maybe? Definitely not as lighthearted as the previous books. The tone does change, thankfully, to the lighter, goofier tone that I love about this series. And getting to meet and has me looking forward to the next book! Especially as !
I think my rating is really more like 3.75 stars - mostly due the that very unhappy start to the book. But I did still enjoy it so four stars it is!
Profile Image for Maureen.
471 reviews6 followers
December 24, 2024
Magic outside the box!

Good book, but I felt it was about 100 pages shy of a great book. The Danica arc came to a sharp end, and I was expecting her to create more chaos, to wiggle out of the situation and return. I’m not betting against it even yet.

That aside, the real life issues with PTSD aren’t often seen in fantasy books, and I thought this was well done. For those who haven’t read the Davenforth series, Jamie’s presence in the Victorian-ish world is the result of an event that still haunts her. This story makes her face those fears.

I like the education of Eddy and highly approve of Seaton’s mother as an addition to the cast.
8 reviews
May 30, 2023
So happy to be back in good company

Oh wow!!!

Best installment in the series so far. The tension throughout was so severe, it almost had me biting my Kindle. For the first time I feared for the lives of our dear heroes.

This is truly a great book. If you like Jamie and Henri already, you probably do not need to be encouraged to read another book. If, on the other hand, you are new to The Case Files of Henri Davenforth, and love a good magical mystery, go back to the first book and start reading. Each of them are well worth the time, but this one is truly the peak so far.
373 reviews2 followers
May 6, 2023
Jamie & Henri are working hard to get the Queen's Own division running & fully staffed. But when a dead body is found on their doorstep & then it turns out to be someone they knew, everything turns upside down. I loved the new characters, including the 4 new ducklings & Chantal, seeing many of the old favorites & also insight into Jamie's dealings with the PTSD from the time in the cave. Eddy is also a huge favorite & DOGTAGS!

Cannot recommend highly enough. This series is just that good!
2,388 reviews
May 9, 2023
I cannot seem to get enough of Henri Davenforth and Jamie and the whole magical gang. This time around they detect and fight an amazingly odd and powerful witch. Plenty of detective work as Jamie starts training new members for the Queen's Own magical detective squad while dealing with post-Belladona stressors. Looking forward to a little less stress for the gang, some more detecting and more on the romance front with Jamie and Henri. Not too much to ask. Smile.
Profile Image for Alicia Scarborough.
Author 12 books93 followers
May 11, 2023
Always Worth It

Every single book in this series is worth the read (and re-read). Though I’m slightly bummed out the modifications to the book cover that Jamie and crew does hasn’t happened on the last two books. They were kind of the fun Easter eggs for me. Well, here’s to hoping the crew will get up to more mischief in the next book.

Oh and yes, this story was spot on and a fantastic read.
49 reviews1 follower
May 14, 2023
My absolute favorite series!

I could not put this book down! The adventures of all of the characters just next level entertainment! The plot was AH-Mazing! I laughed, I wondered, I was so thoroughly entertained I cannot wait for what happens next!! And the introduction of new characters and seeing old characters just an absolutely delightful read! Honor really knows how to connect with her audience and is a World-Class storyteller!!
22 reviews
May 28, 2023
I wish this was a TV series.

Like Jamie I love TV and this world and these people are my favorites. I love that each story stands alone for the most part but the threads that bind the series together are the care that the characters have for each other. Every time I finish one, I can't wait until the next one. I can usually see the next step when I read a story but Jamie and the Queens Own manage to surprise me and I LIKE IT! Do yourself a favor and read this series.
Profile Image for Emilye.
1,550 reviews7 followers
December 25, 2024
I Wanna Be Famous, I Wanna Be A Star

HenriDavenforth9

Under pressure.

Jamie and Henri are trying to get the new department up and running, and people keep distracting them with weird bombs and dead bodies. They haven’t officially opened the offices yet.

But, wackos find their moment in the spotlight, and someone has to push them off the stage.

Jamie, honey … uh, that’s your cue.
14 reviews
May 6, 2023
Excellent Series!

Wonderful world building. A standard strong heroine in a unique situation. Somewhat like E.R. Burroughs' Martian series with a dose of Steam punk and "Law and Order" crime solving. The characters are well written and the plots are strong and written well. Should you be a cat-lover, the Felix will bring joy and giggles.
182 reviews7 followers
Read
May 6, 2023
Worthy addition to the series, good characters and action

This series is unique and wonderful. A detective, Jamie, is kidnapped by an evil witch and transported to a magical world. Her abilities were enhanced by the witch before Jamie killed her and escaped.
The story of her adaptation to the magical world is interesting, funny and action-packed.
9 reviews
May 7, 2023
So good… I’m already looking forward to the next one!

I love spending time with Jamie, Henri, Seaton and all the others. This book introduces a new character who I think will be a new favorite. The author has created a world that I love to visit and the mysteries are icing on the cake!
1,910 reviews18 followers
May 8, 2023
Can we say "OW"? Despite the author's signature humour and lighthearted writing, this has to be the most emotionally fraught and painful novel in this series (even more than the first)! It was almost like Eleanor Porter channelling Andy Peloquin. This was a gut-wretching read, making me appreciate what Jamie has survived and even more, what it means to serve as a police officer or soldier.
Profile Image for Carolyn.
339 reviews20 followers
May 8, 2023
Worth the wait

Jamie's growing her ensemble again as they gear up to open a special unit, but also to catch the crazy so-and-so who's attempting to kill her and her people. This one was somewhat less cozy than previous entries in the series, but was still an excellent read. As always, highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

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