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The Artifactor #4
The Canard Case
“So what is the problem?” “You are aware that Nanashi has an active volcano on it?” Cheng-Huang inquired. At her nod, he continued, “It will explode soon. The pressure is rising quickly and there’s little that we can do to stop it.” A volcano? Sevana’s eyes threatened to pop out of her head. “You want me to stop a volcano?!”
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2016
132 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Honor Raconteur
62 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 41 reviews
January 8, 2017
So I love the Artifactor Series, Sevana is one of my favorite heroines, I just love her snarky attitude and the fact that she never backs down from a challenge. I thought the last book was my favorite in this series, it has been moved to second place with this one taking top. Poor Sevana getting kidnapped right out of bed and then being told to stop an active volcano. I've to say she handled it a lot better than I would have. Anyway I do enjoy her relationship with Aran and I'm looking forward to seeing that develop in the next book. Speaking of when is the next book coming out? I need it! That last page, it can't end there I just really, really want to see Aran's reaction.
Recommended? Not unless you've read the series up to this point. And if you haven't read then go read. If you have, then yes definitely read this one.
Recommended? Not unless you've read the series up to this point. And if you haven't read then go read. If you have, then yes definitely read this one.
July 11, 2022
2022 bk 199. The Artifactor has been kidnapped - what is a woman to do. If its been abducted to solve a problem - then she works on it. Another excellent story.
December 22, 2016
Good novel, if short. My main problem was that the cover and title have nothing to do with the actual story.
June 17, 2020
A quick review of the whole serie here :)
June 21, 2020
I'm reviewing all 5 books in this series together as they whilst all wonderful, complete stories in their own right, each one is as good as the last, and it is the impression of the characters, the world and their interactions that stand out.
I think Sevana might possibly be my most favourite character of Honor Raconteur's so far (maybe heading it up with Jamie and Mei). She is a child prodigy, fully aware that it is her brain and not her innate magic that make her so special. In fact, unusually for so many starring characters her magic ability is fairly weak and this frustrates Sevana greatly a times. She is not as egotistical as you might think (although never humble!) and goes on a very long journey of growing up and personal growth throughout these 5 books. She unwittingly makes allies where ever she goes and I love that she is always solving a problem, even if she should really be looking out for herself. The world here is also delightful, with magic, fae, Gods of differing pantheons, and a rich cultural diversity. Each story is complete, although Sevana is very much on her own journey and some story lines over lap.
Honestly I could rave about these books at length and although I read these as a borrow, I will be buying them as I can see that they will become a comfort reread. What more can I say to recommend?
I think Sevana might possibly be my most favourite character of Honor Raconteur's so far (maybe heading it up with Jamie and Mei). She is a child prodigy, fully aware that it is her brain and not her innate magic that make her so special. In fact, unusually for so many starring characters her magic ability is fairly weak and this frustrates Sevana greatly a times. She is not as egotistical as you might think (although never humble!) and goes on a very long journey of growing up and personal growth throughout these 5 books. She unwittingly makes allies where ever she goes and I love that she is always solving a problem, even if she should really be looking out for herself. The world here is also delightful, with magic, fae, Gods of differing pantheons, and a rich cultural diversity. Each story is complete, although Sevana is very much on her own journey and some story lines over lap.
Honestly I could rave about these books at length and although I read these as a borrow, I will be buying them as I can see that they will become a comfort reread. What more can I say to recommend?
November 8, 2020
I deeply loved the first three stories in this series. I have a suspicion I'd love this one two, if only I could remember who any of these people were.
This is book four of an interconnected series of fantasy novels. Each book tells its own self contained story, featuring the same (ever expanding) cast. However, as I discovered reading this book, stand alone doesn't mean 'pick up anywhere' or 'wait over four years to read the sequel.'
There is no recap, no explanation for who these people are. Just a drop in the deep end and see if you swim or sink. Me, I floundered for a while and then just quit trying to figure out anything that had happened previously (up to and including the connection amongst all these people) and just sort of floated.
Also, we have an Arandur and an Aranhil - one of which is called Aran and all of which left me baffled for a good, solid, three chapters.
Final note: I do love the fact that Sevana has finally gotten a case that she feels is over her head. While I love my confident, cocky girl, it was such fun her having to admit that she needs help.
This is book four of an interconnected series of fantasy novels. Each book tells its own self contained story, featuring the same (ever expanding) cast. However, as I discovered reading this book, stand alone doesn't mean 'pick up anywhere' or 'wait over four years to read the sequel.'
There is no recap, no explanation for who these people are. Just a drop in the deep end and see if you swim or sink. Me, I floundered for a while and then just quit trying to figure out anything that had happened previously (up to and including the connection amongst all these people) and just sort of floated.
Also, we have an Arandur and an Aranhil - one of which is called Aran and all of which left me baffled for a good, solid, three chapters.
Final note: I do love the fact that Sevana has finally gotten a case that she feels is over her head. While I love my confident, cocky girl, it was such fun her having to admit that she needs help.
January 5, 2024
Content:
Language: None.
Violence: Mild. There are some off-screen deaths. Peril due to volcano. Threats, etc.
Sexual: So mild it's almost not there. There is some hints that a romance is in the works, but nothing yet.
Quick review: I got kinda bored. The whole book is them prepping and trying to save everyone from a volcano that's about to blow. It's them going from one person/place to the next in preparation. It's not overly long, but there wasn't a lot happening on a 'this is interesting' level for me. It wasn't horrible, I mean, I finished the book, but it wasn't pulling me in begging me to keep going either. Even with the side plot of Sevanna's messed up magic.
The most intriguing part of the book? When she gets kidnapped .
I'll get to the last book in the series eventually, but I need a break from the series. This one has been hard for me to get through, despite really enjoying most of Honor Raconteur's books (minus Human Familiar).
Language: None.
Violence: Mild. There are some off-screen deaths. Peril due to volcano. Threats, etc.
Sexual: So mild it's almost not there. There is some hints that a romance is in the works, but nothing yet.
Quick review: I got kinda bored. The whole book is them prepping and trying to save everyone from a volcano that's about to blow. It's them going from one person/place to the next in preparation. It's not overly long, but there wasn't a lot happening on a 'this is interesting' level for me. It wasn't horrible, I mean, I finished the book, but it wasn't pulling me in begging me to keep going either. Even with the side plot of Sevanna's messed up magic.
The most intriguing part of the book? When she gets kidnapped .
I'll get to the last book in the series eventually, but I need a break from the series. This one has been hard for me to get through, despite really enjoying most of Honor Raconteur's books (minus Human Familiar).
December 29, 2024
Fancy Meeting You Here
Artifactor4; 4.5 ⭐️
Sevana Warran survived a catastrophic attack - just barely. Now, half Fae, her body has almost adapted, but her magic is all akimbo. That means she cannot consistently use it, which puts much of her fabrication on hold.
When she gets commandeered by three immortals to solve a volcanic eruption problem, all the horses are out of the barn, and there is just a teeny, tiny blaze in the corner. She melts Caller devices now. So, she has to be found by extraordinary means.
The island has a goddess locked in the volcano, which is a problem, because it is inhabited. So lives and livelihoods are at stake. And, no ecosystem exists in a vacuum, there are other communities affected by this threat.
But, Sevana gets by with a lotta help from her friends. The pantheon was almost too fantastic, but the story was well executed.
Artifactor4; 4.5 ⭐️
Sevana Warran survived a catastrophic attack - just barely. Now, half Fae, her body has almost adapted, but her magic is all akimbo. That means she cannot consistently use it, which puts much of her fabrication on hold.
When she gets commandeered by three immortals to solve a volcanic eruption problem, all the horses are out of the barn, and there is just a teeny, tiny blaze in the corner. She melts Caller devices now. So, she has to be found by extraordinary means.
The island has a goddess locked in the volcano, which is a problem, because it is inhabited. So lives and livelihoods are at stake. And, no ecosystem exists in a vacuum, there are other communities affected by this threat.
But, Sevana gets by with a lotta help from her friends. The pantheon was almost too fantastic, but the story was well executed.
June 2, 2017
I can't wait for each new book in this series. I could write a book about what makes this series my favorite. I will say that this is the series I would want to read to my kids and recommend to young girls. Everyone, really but I wish this had been around when I was 14, smart but awkward. It would have been a safe place to dream of living inside Big, making magical lamps and talking to my pet panther. Oh..and being smart and good at math and. A. Girl.
October 11, 2019
Being Kidnapped Is A Pain
Sevnana has been kidnapped again, right out of her bed. She is very annoyed, but decides that she can't refuse to try to prevent a disaster. I like the problem solving, humor, and possible romance. Aran the fae has been watching after her with more attentiveness than she is used to. Sevana is an intriguing character. I look forward to the next book.
Sevnana has been kidnapped again, right out of her bed. She is very annoyed, but decides that she can't refuse to try to prevent a disaster. I like the problem solving, humor, and possible romance. Aran the fae has been watching after her with more attentiveness than she is used to. Sevana is an intriguing character. I look forward to the next book.
March 29, 2023
I can see the content of the next story by this ending
A volcano is about to blow, and people need the artifactor’s help. Her magic is on the fritz, and she needs help as well. The ending of the story foreshadows the next story to come. In this book, we meet new creatures and races of individuals. The problem is complex, and is I. need of a group solution. Naturally, all Savana’s friends help.
A volcano is about to blow, and people need the artifactor’s help. Her magic is on the fritz, and she needs help as well. The ending of the story foreshadows the next story to come. In this book, we meet new creatures and races of individuals. The problem is complex, and is I. need of a group solution. Naturally, all Savana’s friends help.
May 8, 2020
Loved it, but the ending was a cliffhanger!
Great plot, it took awhile to figure out who the bad ‘guy’ was. Excellent character development, although I think Sevana should have figured out Aran is more than a friend by now. Good ending to the volcano problem. But really HR? Way to leave us hanging on that last chapter. Can’t wait for the next one.
Great plot, it took awhile to figure out who the bad ‘guy’ was. Excellent character development, although I think Sevana should have figured out Aran is more than a friend by now. Good ending to the volcano problem. But really HR? Way to leave us hanging on that last chapter. Can’t wait for the next one.
December 24, 2021
Wonderful
Pleased that I found this author a bit late so that lots of her books are available. Downside is that this will be expensive. Also a problem that there not many of her books available in audio form. Please sort this out quickly. I like reading and listening at the same time. Thanks.
Pleased that I found this author a bit late so that lots of her books are available. Downside is that this will be expensive. Also a problem that there not many of her books available in audio form. Please sort this out quickly. I like reading and listening at the same time. Thanks.
December 1, 2016
Loved it
I finished it too soon!! How long before another comes out?! I just love this author. She sucks me into her world and I never want to leave. I enjoyed book four and hope more are in the works.
I finished it too soon!! How long before another comes out?! I just love this author. She sucks me into her world and I never want to leave. I enjoyed book four and hope more are in the works.
April 5, 2020
Awesome!
Is there anything Savan can't do!?! What's next for the fearless half fea artifactor? May e if she can stop getting kidnapped, get her core setteled, the sky and Egypt seems to be the limit!
Is there anything Savan can't do!?! What's next for the fearless half fea artifactor? May e if she can stop getting kidnapped, get her core setteled, the sky and Egypt seems to be the limit!
May 13, 2020
Great series great author on to the next one
If you enjoy interesting characters and interesting stories please check these out. Start with the first and keep going. And then check out the other ones.
If you enjoy interesting characters and interesting stories please check these out. Start with the first and keep going. And then check out the other ones.
November 4, 2021
Comfortable and enjoyable
I like the easy and honest characters and they are usually well fleshed out and interesting. Lots of variation and a lively imagination
Contribute to some enjoyable storytelling.
I like the easy and honest characters and they are usually well fleshed out and interesting. Lots of variation and a lively imagination
Contribute to some enjoyable storytelling.
July 8, 2023
Yes!
This series just keeps getting better and better. Unfortunately there is only one more left in it for me to read. If you appreciate really good fiction the buy the book and read it. Of course it will be even better if you’ve read the earlier three novels first. Happy reading.
This series just keeps getting better and better. Unfortunately there is only one more left in it for me to read. If you appreciate really good fiction the buy the book and read it. Of course it will be even better if you’ve read the earlier three novels first. Happy reading.
January 15, 2024
A wonderful addition to the series.
The characters are wonderful, quirky, and evolving. The plot is twisty and complex. The world building is superb. I can't wait to read the next book!
The characters are wonderful, quirky, and evolving. The plot is twisty and complex. The world building is superb. I can't wait to read the next book!
May 8, 2024
Another Devoured
Again, the snarkiness continues to tickle my funny bone and the pages turning. Sevana just can’t catch a break but does reap the reap the rewards due to her. Loved the puzzle and race to beat the clock scenario. Definitely, loved he anti-kidnapping charm too.
Again, the snarkiness continues to tickle my funny bone and the pages turning. Sevana just can’t catch a break but does reap the reap the rewards due to her. Loved the puzzle and race to beat the clock scenario. Definitely, loved he anti-kidnapping charm too.
August 14, 2024
Yep a good one
I’m thoroughly enjoying this series of stories. Sev is an excellent MC and the rest of the characters are great too. Each adventure has been entertaining, on to the next.
I’m thoroughly enjoying this series of stories. Sev is an excellent MC and the rest of the characters are great too. Each adventure has been entertaining, on to the next.
February 28, 2021
It’s really good
I really like these books, they’re excellently written, there is no bad language, and the characters are very interesting. Very good
I really like these books, they’re excellently written, there is no bad language, and the characters are very interesting. Very good
June 28, 2021
Love the book
Valeriecook1063@msn.com though the use of earth /American euphemism are unlikely in this mythical land it is lots of fun nonetheless.
Valeriecook1063@msn.com though the use of earth /American euphemism are unlikely in this mythical land it is lots of fun nonetheless.
July 31, 2021
Havoc
Oh, the havoc Gods and Goddesses can create. Jealousy, revenge ~ oops bad idea, kidnapping, natural disasters and beings working together, Gods, Goddesses, Fae and Human.
Oh, the havoc Gods and Goddesses can create. Jealousy, revenge ~ oops bad idea, kidnapping, natural disasters and beings working together, Gods, Goddesses, Fae and Human.
December 30, 2021
First book I have heard to of Honor! I will definitely follow this series and listen to rest of the books. The narrator does justice to the book. Love the Artifactors personality...
November 21, 2022
Good fun read
Imaginative plots and engaging character's in a magical world. A good read for all ages. Similar to the Myth world series by R Asprin.
Imaginative plots and engaging character's in a magical world. A good read for all ages. Similar to the Myth world series by R Asprin.
December 31, 2022
Oh, loved reading this book, it was so entertaining, and I've almost finished the series!
April 10, 2023
Quite fun.
October 4, 2023
Deities! Kidnapping! Mermaids! Cliffhanger...
April 23, 2024
Have book 5 ready as the ending is very abrupt. Again I have visited a place with kind people who want the best for their fellow residents.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews