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Imagineer #1
Imagineer
Imagination has no limit…
Our Heroine: Me. And boy, are we all in trouble. A seventeen-year-old with a love of fantasy and unmanageable hair? Hardly anyone’s idea of the knight in shining armor. I went about life with no idea the world around me was not as it seemed, until one dark night I saw glimpses of things I knew shouldn’t exist.
I’ve got enough problems of my own to deal with, but the glimpses of what I’m certain is a magical world that tantalize me like no other. When I find a pair of turquoise glasses that allow me to properly see everything, I put those bad boys on without a second of hesitation.
I probably should have hesitated. I’m now neck deep in kobolds, pookas, magic castles, youkai, unruly werewolves, talking houses, and an ancient magical mystery in need of solving.
Oh, and magic lessons. Turns out I’m an Imagineer, which was totally unexpected. An Imagineer creates by using imagination, willpower, and magic to form whatever they wish. Their only limitation is imagination, and imagination? Has no limits.
At least, if you’re doing it right.
Our Heroine: Me. And boy, are we all in trouble. A seventeen-year-old with a love of fantasy and unmanageable hair? Hardly anyone’s idea of the knight in shining armor. I went about life with no idea the world around me was not as it seemed, until one dark night I saw glimpses of things I knew shouldn’t exist.
I’ve got enough problems of my own to deal with, but the glimpses of what I’m certain is a magical world that tantalize me like no other. When I find a pair of turquoise glasses that allow me to properly see everything, I put those bad boys on without a second of hesitation.
I probably should have hesitated. I’m now neck deep in kobolds, pookas, magic castles, youkai, unruly werewolves, talking houses, and an ancient magical mystery in need of solving.
Oh, and magic lessons. Turns out I’m an Imagineer, which was totally unexpected. An Imagineer creates by using imagination, willpower, and magic to form whatever they wish. Their only limitation is imagination, and imagination? Has no limits.
At least, if you’re doing it right.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2019
306 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Honor Raconteur
63 books842 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 86 reviews
August 13, 2019
This book is my new favorite of the year. This stuff is pure crack! I am seriously having withdrawal symptoms now that it is over! I need my fix and make it snappy! ;D
The story is delightful in its originality, I am so impressed with Honor Raconteur's writing!
Reagan is a girl that discovers that the world is filled with magical creatures, and instead of making a fool out of herself, she actually uses her brain! She studies the phenomena that she can see, and tries to follow the rules of the supernatural that she learned from all those anime shows and fantasy novels we read. <3
Reagan soon learns that she is one of the few humans that have "Imagineer" powers. Kind of like a conjure mage, but instead of needing to brew a potion to conjure some object, all she needs is her imagination! The story kind of reminds me of Harry Potter with all the magical creatures, but instead of a school of magic, Reagan becomes an apprentice to a bad-ass Russian woman Imagineer.
I love that the story focuses on Family. For most of her life Reagan has had almost no relationship with her parents, and virtually no friends. Other than her awesome Grandmother who has done her best to fill the gaps, her new friends in the magical community show her the true meaning of family, loyalty, and love.
The rest of the novel veers into some pretty awesome imaginative territory. We get thrown into stargate style archaeology with the re-discovery of ancient imagineer tech for portals that allow magical creatures to move across the globe. The main plot is finding why the portals were dismantled, and how to get them working again. Magical communities are disappearing, and the portals may be the only way to find out where they went and why.
The story does end in a cliff-hangar, and if I don't get another book in this series soon, I may spontaneously combust...
The story is delightful in its originality, I am so impressed with Honor Raconteur's writing!
Reagan is a girl that discovers that the world is filled with magical creatures, and instead of making a fool out of herself, she actually uses her brain! She studies the phenomena that she can see, and tries to follow the rules of the supernatural that she learned from all those anime shows and fantasy novels we read. <3
Reagan soon learns that she is one of the few humans that have "Imagineer" powers. Kind of like a conjure mage, but instead of needing to brew a potion to conjure some object, all she needs is her imagination! The story kind of reminds me of Harry Potter with all the magical creatures, but instead of a school of magic, Reagan becomes an apprentice to a bad-ass Russian woman Imagineer.
I love that the story focuses on Family. For most of her life Reagan has had almost no relationship with her parents, and virtually no friends. Other than her awesome Grandmother who has done her best to fill the gaps, her new friends in the magical community show her the true meaning of family, loyalty, and love.
The rest of the novel veers into some pretty awesome imaginative territory. We get thrown into stargate style archaeology with the re-discovery of ancient imagineer tech for portals that allow magical creatures to move across the globe. The main plot is finding why the portals were dismantled, and how to get them working again. Magical communities are disappearing, and the portals may be the only way to find out where they went and why.
The story does end in a cliff-hangar, and if I don't get another book in this series soon, I may spontaneously combust...
November 6, 2022
Iffy
I was iffy on reading this book because I’m sick and tired of cliff hangers and waiting because the author has ADHD and can’t focus on one. Fricking. Series. Like ever. But I loved it and now I have to wait two years because, again, ADHD. Or multiple personalities. It could go either way.
I was iffy on reading this book because I’m sick and tired of cliff hangers and waiting because the author has ADHD and can’t focus on one. Fricking. Series. Like ever. But I loved it and now I have to wait two years because, again, ADHD. Or multiple personalities. It could go either way.
November 22, 2020
YA fantasy set in modern world (Oregon, Brazil, India). Several times I laughed out loud while reading it. The ending isn’t a total cliffhanger but it definitely leaves me wanting to read the rest of the story right now!!! Worth rereading, particularly right before the sequel is released.
May 12, 2020
Interesting concept but not for me! The story line did improve from that crazy beginning!
July 14, 2019
This book had a slow and boring start. Stick with it, it picks up around 15% and gets hard to put down. Another good book by Honor Raconteur and a great beginning to a series. No swear words, fun replacements where a typical teenager would use said swear words, so many fantastic creatures from mythology and an interesting magical ability. Best of all was her friends the pooka and kobold. This book is one I would recommend for anyone that loves YA urban fantasy. Can't wait for the next installment.
August 5, 2019
The voice of the protagonist is wonderful, and I felt myself falling in love with her. I eagerly await the sequel.
September 13, 2021
This was such a great book, loved Reagan and this world, and I can't wait to see where book 2 goes!
June 3, 2021
Love this author! Such creative, fun books!
February 26, 2020
I wish to be Reagan
Love this new series so much. I think Reagan could of been me as a child, I remember (after watching "bewitched " and "I dream of Jeanie" ...yes I'm old.. I was very young then lol) I used to concentrate so hard on moving an object to come to me , a toy. If I could just will it to be a little harder it would MOVE. This is the feeling this book gave me, like it was right there at the tip of my fingers, the edge of my mind. I was immediately transported back to this time in my childhood where IT COULD REALLY HAPPEN. I was happy for Reagan that it did. I see so much more story to tell, like another reviewer mentioned, PLEASE bring back the werewolf teens, more of her new body guards/family histories ,and the little Kappa (?) guys that jump started Reagan's new life and showed us her utter kindness. This is what sucked me in. The surprise of where her glasses came from, I loved that. I also am off my game and did not see it coming. Great set up for the DUCKS. Hurry up and get the next book out! Thanks for an entirely joyful read for me.
Love this new series so much. I think Reagan could of been me as a child, I remember (after watching "bewitched " and "I dream of Jeanie" ...yes I'm old.. I was very young then lol) I used to concentrate so hard on moving an object to come to me , a toy. If I could just will it to be a little harder it would MOVE. This is the feeling this book gave me, like it was right there at the tip of my fingers, the edge of my mind. I was immediately transported back to this time in my childhood where IT COULD REALLY HAPPEN. I was happy for Reagan that it did. I see so much more story to tell, like another reviewer mentioned, PLEASE bring back the werewolf teens, more of her new body guards/family histories ,and the little Kappa (?) guys that jump started Reagan's new life and showed us her utter kindness. This is what sucked me in. The surprise of where her glasses came from, I loved that. I also am off my game and did not see it coming. Great set up for the DUCKS. Hurry up and get the next book out! Thanks for an entirely joyful read for me.
September 18, 2019
Wow! Excellent beginning!
Love this opening to a future/alternate earth! The mc is fun to follow from an unmagical into a magical awareness and reality.
Love the characters from all over the reality map! This is going to be an exciting series! Thanks in advance!
Love this opening to a future/alternate earth! The mc is fun to follow from an unmagical into a magical awareness and reality.
Love the characters from all over the reality map! This is going to be an exciting series! Thanks in advance!
June 16, 2024
Engaging, entertaining, feel-good. (Benign, harmless reading in the midst of crisis.)
February 17, 2021
Okay so, for starters, I really love Honor Raconteur’s works. Her characters are supremely easy to get fond of, the world building (in her other series) is incredible and the stories really make you feel warm inside.
And even with all of those amazing series, this is so far my absolute favourite.
This series is an urban fantasy and let me just say, the mc’s reaction to finding the magical overlay over her world is so refreshing, honestly. She reacts, not with disbelief, friends, no no, but with excitement and that feeling of “YES THIS IS WHAT I ALWAYS WANTED”. Which is so much more relatable (for me) than those characters going “A magical world? Really? You’re pulling my leg.” I WANT a magical world, dang it, and so help me if I finally found a character who shared my opinion on this.
Reagan (the mc) is not only delighted to find the magical world, but smart about it too. She is cautious in her endeavours to discover more and when she’s accepted into the magical community she is eager to learn and thinks outside the box while also being polite to the magical beings and highly relatable (to me, at least).
Can you tell I love this character? I love her so so much.
It is possible that some people might call her a Mary Sue for certain things going her way, but I would disagree with them because she put in the work and she was nice and it worked for her, so THERE.
Beyond Reagan being an amazing character, the side characters and the feels of found family and her connection to them is just so heartwarming I can’t even fully express it. There were multiple scenes where I came close to crying [and one which I did, but HEY you will NOT judge me for being heart warmed over Klaus’s immediate reaction to “What does she mean to you?” being “Mine.” (In a fatherly way) that was just too sweet and I’m a sensitive little thing] and the FEELS, just UGH. Very heartwarming.
Oh yeah, and did I mention another thing? There’s no romance here. I don’t mean that as “Oh look, finally, in this world filled with sappy romantics there is a heartwarming book WITHOUT a kiss scene!” I am a sappy romantic myself and a good romance does not need a kiss scene to feel heartwarming. More like, I’m just pointing it out because most books that I do get fond of this much have romance of some sort (I did say I was a romantic) and to me it’s a noteworthy thing that it didn’t have any. So, yeah.
In short; if you’re one of those people who love the idea of magic and would like an urban fantasy character who shares your sentiments, I highly highly recommend Imagineer (I mean, seriously though, if you’re reading this then it’s more than likely that you are entranced by fantasy on some level and doesn’t it get tiring at some point having protagonists who go “DENIAL”?). It’s a feel-good story with a sensible heroine, magic in which imagination is the only limit and did I mention the feels? I did, right? Good. Please add this book to your TBR. Hopefully you will come to love it as much as I did.
And now I am on to reading the next book in the series. See y’all at my next review maybe! xD
And even with all of those amazing series, this is so far my absolute favourite.
This series is an urban fantasy and let me just say, the mc’s reaction to finding the magical overlay over her world is so refreshing, honestly. She reacts, not with disbelief, friends, no no, but with excitement and that feeling of “YES THIS IS WHAT I ALWAYS WANTED”. Which is so much more relatable (for me) than those characters going “A magical world? Really? You’re pulling my leg.” I WANT a magical world, dang it, and so help me if I finally found a character who shared my opinion on this.
Reagan (the mc) is not only delighted to find the magical world, but smart about it too. She is cautious in her endeavours to discover more and when she’s accepted into the magical community she is eager to learn and thinks outside the box while also being polite to the magical beings and highly relatable (to me, at least).
Can you tell I love this character? I love her so so much.
It is possible that some people might call her a Mary Sue for certain things going her way, but I would disagree with them because she put in the work and she was nice and it worked for her, so THERE.
Beyond Reagan being an amazing character, the side characters and the feels of found family and her connection to them is just so heartwarming I can’t even fully express it. There were multiple scenes where I came close to crying [and one which I did, but HEY you will NOT judge me for being heart warmed over Klaus’s immediate reaction to “What does she mean to you?” being “Mine.” (In a fatherly way) that was just too sweet and I’m a sensitive little thing] and the FEELS, just UGH. Very heartwarming.
Oh yeah, and did I mention another thing? There’s no romance here. I don’t mean that as “Oh look, finally, in this world filled with sappy romantics there is a heartwarming book WITHOUT a kiss scene!” I am a sappy romantic myself and a good romance does not need a kiss scene to feel heartwarming. More like, I’m just pointing it out because most books that I do get fond of this much have romance of some sort (I did say I was a romantic) and to me it’s a noteworthy thing that it didn’t have any. So, yeah.
In short; if you’re one of those people who love the idea of magic and would like an urban fantasy character who shares your sentiments, I highly highly recommend Imagineer (I mean, seriously though, if you’re reading this then it’s more than likely that you are entranced by fantasy on some level and doesn’t it get tiring at some point having protagonists who go “DENIAL”?). It’s a feel-good story with a sensible heroine, magic in which imagination is the only limit and did I mention the feels? I did, right? Good. Please add this book to your TBR. Hopefully you will come to love it as much as I did.
And now I am on to reading the next book in the series. See y’all at my next review maybe! xD
October 3, 2023
Read books 1 - 2. This is a review for the series.
This was pretty bad, overall.
The character is 17 years old. The story is told from her POV and in her teenage voice. Boy, was it annoying. Here is an example:
It's an extremely light and fluffy series like cheap cake, without substance and too much sugar.
There isn't much to the story--you can summarize it like this: Girl finds out she's an imagineer. She then spends the rest of the 2 books going around working on this 1 project. That's it.
To be fair, this author's plots have never been particularly complex--a lot of her books are more about the character development and their fun interactions with each other. This seemed to be somewhat lacking here, though, and the story felt even flimsier than usual.
The magic system is basically this: It's repeated over and over through the story that there is no limit to your imagination and that if you can imagine it--even if it doesn't exist--you can make it as an Imagineer. So why can they imagine up glasses that can see through rock but not a teleporter pad that just ports them? The limitations seemed to be pretty arbitrary, just to make a problem out of it.
The character is apparently an unheralded genius. She's 17 years old but is over there telling adults truths--pointing out shit here and there that they were all too dumb to see.
The story feels like a children's book in that everyone they meet is eager to help and immediately their best friend. The characters who become her new family of the heart just automagically love her without much in the way of interactions between them shown to us. it's just poof! they love her fiercely rawr! Additionally, danger ever only arises for approximately two seconds in the entire book, after which the heroine of course ingeniously counters it.
It was a pretty boring read overall, and I definitely don't recommend this series. Read her Artifactor and Deepwoods series instead--they're quite entertaining and good comfort reading.
This was pretty bad, overall.
The character is 17 years old. The story is told from her POV and in her teenage voice. Boy, was it annoying. Here is an example:
I could feel my hair poofing, the humidity was so dense. I knew it headed into 'holy crap, it's HAGRID' territory.
It's an extremely light and fluffy series like cheap cake, without substance and too much sugar.
There isn't much to the story--you can summarize it like this: Girl finds out she's an imagineer. She then spends the rest of the 2 books going around working on this 1 project. That's it.
To be fair, this author's plots have never been particularly complex--a lot of her books are more about the character development and their fun interactions with each other. This seemed to be somewhat lacking here, though, and the story felt even flimsier than usual.
The magic system is basically this: It's repeated over and over through the story that there is no limit to your imagination and that if you can imagine it--even if it doesn't exist--you can make it as an Imagineer. So why can they imagine up glasses that can see through rock but not a teleporter pad that just ports them? The limitations seemed to be pretty arbitrary, just to make a problem out of it.
The character is apparently an unheralded genius. She's 17 years old but is over there telling adults truths--pointing out shit here and there that they were all too dumb to see.
The story feels like a children's book in that everyone they meet is eager to help and immediately their best friend. The characters who become her new family of the heart just automagically love her without much in the way of interactions between them shown to us. it's just poof! they love her fiercely rawr! Additionally, danger ever only arises for approximately two seconds in the entire book, after which the heroine of course ingeniously counters it.
It was a pretty boring read overall, and I definitely don't recommend this series. Read her Artifactor and Deepwoods series instead--they're quite entertaining and good comfort reading.
August 23, 2022
Last things first: the book leaves you hanging, if you ever want to find out how it all ends. There is no conclusion, there is no resolution even of any of the narrative threads. Great way for an author to put me off buying another of their books again ... if it weren't for some of her other series.
Having said that, I have read quite a number of books by Raconteur. And I think this one is one of the weakest of hers I've come across so far. I am not going to go into detail of this 'beggar to prince(ss)' narrative, just not believable. The chit of a girl with no friends, no confidence, and little support goes around telling a bunch of magicians of all stripes How It Is Done only a few dozen pages down the track.
I think an author in their world building has to be allowed some creative freedom but not at all sure how far I can go along with redefining all sorts of mythologic critters. From the Kobold who acts more like a house-elf of Harry Potter's to the caring lovable Italian vampire paramedic to the Wendigo that does not seem to have anything in common with the Native American myth of the same name but more with Schwarzenegger's Terminator ... it stretches MY suspension of disbelief. Did these guys do any research at all? Or did they just decide to throw it all out of the window?
Personal bug bear: there is a supposedly professional author with a supposedly professional editor (and thanks given to 'the beta readers'): Nobody of these people knows the difference between compliment and complement? The difference between a principle and a school principal? Between intra-country travel and inter-continental? They got them all mixed up. The only thing they missed out on getting wrong was someone peddling their bike down the street. (pedals, pedaling). Sloppy.
Having said that, I have read quite a number of books by Raconteur. And I think this one is one of the weakest of hers I've come across so far. I am not going to go into detail of this 'beggar to prince(ss)' narrative, just not believable. The chit of a girl with no friends, no confidence, and little support goes around telling a bunch of magicians of all stripes How It Is Done only a few dozen pages down the track.
I think an author in their world building has to be allowed some creative freedom but not at all sure how far I can go along with redefining all sorts of mythologic critters. From the Kobold who acts more like a house-elf of Harry Potter's to the caring lovable Italian vampire paramedic to the Wendigo that does not seem to have anything in common with the Native American myth of the same name but more with Schwarzenegger's Terminator ... it stretches MY suspension of disbelief. Did these guys do any research at all? Or did they just decide to throw it all out of the window?
Personal bug bear: there is a supposedly professional author with a supposedly professional editor (and thanks given to 'the beta readers'): Nobody of these people knows the difference between compliment and complement? The difference between a principle and a school principal? Between intra-country travel and inter-continental? They got them all mixed up. The only thing they missed out on getting wrong was someone peddling their bike down the street. (pedals, pedaling). Sloppy.
February 14, 2024
Fascinating, to say the least! Kudos for this incredibly creative world building.
So, I literally imagined a different kind of story, more along the lines of the Artifactor world. I suppose, especially given the time period that Reagan's life is set in, that electricity, toilets, showers, the internet, laptops and cell phones would be difficult to incorporate into a world that doesn't yet have those items, not to mention automobiles, airplanes and space travel.
For all that this book's storyline, featured main character, and her slow advance and exposure to the world of magic were a surprise to me, I really liked Reagan, her new master teacher, and her protectors. She's truly funny and a great deal more loveable, kind, intelligent, and resourceful than her own absentee parents believe she is. This first book ended in a cliffhanger, and I've got fingers crossed that her dad makes things up to her in the next book. I don't like cliff hangers, but I'd still recommend the series - Reagan is a curiosity and so forward thinking she's sure to challenge her elders! Five stars. Brilliant plot twists and writing!
So, I literally imagined a different kind of story, more along the lines of the Artifactor world. I suppose, especially given the time period that Reagan's life is set in, that electricity, toilets, showers, the internet, laptops and cell phones would be difficult to incorporate into a world that doesn't yet have those items, not to mention automobiles, airplanes and space travel.
For all that this book's storyline, featured main character, and her slow advance and exposure to the world of magic were a surprise to me, I really liked Reagan, her new master teacher, and her protectors. She's truly funny and a great deal more loveable, kind, intelligent, and resourceful than her own absentee parents believe she is. This first book ended in a cliffhanger, and I've got fingers crossed that her dad makes things up to her in the next book. I don't like cliff hangers, but I'd still recommend the series - Reagan is a curiosity and so forward thinking she's sure to challenge her elders! Five stars. Brilliant plot twists and writing!
June 26, 2024
Having never read any Honor Raconteur books before I didn’t know what to expect.
I wasn’t too sure on the first person dialogue at first, but after a few chapters got fairly into it.
It’s a great concept to be sure and I was intrigued by the idea of lots of magical creatures and different planes of existence.
I felt this could have been developed FAR MORE however. I kept reading to see if something interesting would happen. But most of it was info dumping (which wasn’t too bad tbf), and loads of characters who loved the main character. I kept expecting a love interest, or some sort of hiccup. Some ulterior motives. Some dark villain overarching everything. But sadly no.
Also, the main character - at 16/17, is smarter and more knowledgeable than other Imagineers? It felt like everyone was dumb except her and I was just like…. What???
But if you want an interesting concept… have at it.
I wasn’t too sure on the first person dialogue at first, but after a few chapters got fairly into it.
It’s a great concept to be sure and I was intrigued by the idea of lots of magical creatures and different planes of existence.
I felt this could have been developed FAR MORE however. I kept reading to see if something interesting would happen. But most of it was info dumping (which wasn’t too bad tbf), and loads of characters who loved the main character. I kept expecting a love interest, or some sort of hiccup. Some ulterior motives. Some dark villain overarching everything. But sadly no.
Also, the main character - at 16/17, is smarter and more knowledgeable than other Imagineers? It felt like everyone was dumb except her and I was just like…. What???
But if you want an interesting concept… have at it.
January 30, 2024
So I sat down to read one series by this author a few weeks ago... and this is now the *third* series of hers that I'm reading since then. There have been a lot of late nights and mumbled conversations since then, but I'm still going. The stories have a pleasing beginning, middle, end structure; the dialogue is always believable and smooth (OK the bit where someone was juggling fire to amuse a dragon was a bit out there, but still...)
All the characters (apart from the Bad Guys) are supremely likeable, and it seems clear that this author both enjoys her work and is rather good at it.
All the characters (apart from the Bad Guys) are supremely likeable, and it seems clear that this author both enjoys her work and is rather good at it.
May 20, 2020
On the way home from visiting her grandmother in a nursing home, Reagan's life is saved by an invisible person who uses magic to fix her flat tire and get her away from a manticore. For the next couple of weeks, Reagan, begins to see things out the corner of her eye. Magical things.
Why I started this book: Wanted to read this new series by Raconteur. Because I have enjoyed some of her others.
Why I finished it: Not my favorite... but I will read the next one to see if it gets better. Very abrupt non-ending.
Why I started this book: Wanted to read this new series by Raconteur. Because I have enjoyed some of her others.
Why I finished it: Not my favorite... but I will read the next one to see if it gets better. Very abrupt non-ending.
February 7, 2021
Delightfully imaginative
I liked the presentation of all the magical characters. I saw an underlying theme of Regans sorrow ,anger and loneliness at her emotional and physical abandonment by her workaholic parents .Unfortunately this is a reoccurring problem in our society. Hopefully this book will help young readers to recognize these are very real issues .Then find someone to validate them and love them . This is a great book for all those that love magical fantasy. It is a wonderful way to let a teen know there is love available if only they look for it and believe .
I liked the presentation of all the magical characters. I saw an underlying theme of Regans sorrow ,anger and loneliness at her emotional and physical abandonment by her workaholic parents .Unfortunately this is a reoccurring problem in our society. Hopefully this book will help young readers to recognize these are very real issues .Then find someone to validate them and love them . This is a great book for all those that love magical fantasy. It is a wonderful way to let a teen know there is love available if only they look for it and believe .
April 2, 2020
I enjoyed this fluff story on magic
Reagan is a young teenager who has a high interest in magic and the supernatural. When she discovers that the realm of real magic is in fact something she can interact with she jumps in with both feet. As an Imagineer who surprises her trainers, Reagan shows courage and fortitude not letting her lack of experience stop her. From what I have seen so far Reason will go far.
Reagan is a young teenager who has a high interest in magic and the supernatural. When she discovers that the realm of real magic is in fact something she can interact with she jumps in with both feet. As an Imagineer who surprises her trainers, Reagan shows courage and fortitude not letting her lack of experience stop her. From what I have seen so far Reason will go far.
April 7, 2020
Where's the next book?
Imagineer drew me in and kept me attentive to its conclusion. Reagan is a likeable narrator, surrounded by a variety of support characters, loving, neglectful, human, and magical. The world building of a magical realm within the reality we can see was interesting. There is such a blend of different mythologies going on here, but it was never overwhelming. A fun first in series. Looking forward to the next.
Imagineer drew me in and kept me attentive to its conclusion. Reagan is a likeable narrator, surrounded by a variety of support characters, loving, neglectful, human, and magical. The world building of a magical realm within the reality we can see was interesting. There is such a blend of different mythologies going on here, but it was never overwhelming. A fun first in series. Looking forward to the next.
October 23, 2022
Took me a while to get into the story. The writing style didn't help, the lack of real plot either. The book feels long as nothing really happens. The ending is quite disappointing and felt like it could have been the start of the next book instead.
The relationship between Reagan and Tabitha is ridiculous, the one with her parents as well.
The best part of the book might be all the mystical characters.
The relationship between Reagan and Tabitha is ridiculous, the one with her parents as well.
The best part of the book might be all the mystical characters.
July 20, 2023
Pretty dang good
Honestly, a little tired of YA fantasy. But I have to say this one had characters a little better developed than some others. And the magic portion of the fantasy had enough of a twist that I wasn't tired of the topic halfway through. And I had no compunction, no second quesses, about clicking 'read now' for the next one. You know sometimes you're like "did I enjoy this enough to read the next one" because it's not just time but headspace you use.
Honestly, a little tired of YA fantasy. But I have to say this one had characters a little better developed than some others. And the magic portion of the fantasy had enough of a twist that I wasn't tired of the topic halfway through. And I had no compunction, no second quesses, about clicking 'read now' for the next one. You know sometimes you're like "did I enjoy this enough to read the next one" because it's not just time but headspace you use.
April 6, 2024
Love this take on magic
Seeing the main characters from wth in this book is great. The over all magical world is both fun and very consistent. Love the take on the main characters magic. I also appreciate that the magical community is supportive instead of the troupe of acting like the new to magic person should already know everything the treating them like they are stupid when they don't
Seeing the main characters from wth in this book is great. The over all magical world is both fun and very consistent. Love the take on the main characters magic. I also appreciate that the magical community is supportive instead of the troupe of acting like the new to magic person should already know everything the treating them like they are stupid when they don't
January 15, 2021
Love, love, everything
I have read and enjoyed everything Honor Raconteur has out there and this was no exception.
I also wanted and still want magic to be real. The characters are real. My grandmother shared her Irish stories with me and helped my imagination grow.
If you're looking for good story and interesting characters, I think you will enjoy this author.
I have read and enjoyed everything Honor Raconteur has out there and this was no exception.
I also wanted and still want magic to be real. The characters are real. My grandmother shared her Irish stories with me and helped my imagination grow.
If you're looking for good story and interesting characters, I think you will enjoy this author.
February 26, 2021
No constant warring
A refreshing read. This focused on the joy of discovery. The main character still dealt with the rigors of reality but did so in a healthy way . Hopefully this could help readers learn to apply it to their own lives and still focus on joy. I love fantasies that teach.
A refreshing read. This focused on the joy of discovery. The main character still dealt with the rigors of reality but did so in a healthy way . Hopefully this could help readers learn to apply it to their own lives and still focus on joy. I love fantasies that teach.
December 12, 2021
YA urban fantasy
This is a YA urban fantasy book for anyone who loves all the fantastical creatures of every land. There is cute and clever dialogue. I personally didn’t connect with Reagan, the main character (I don’t like plots where the main character is awesome all the time) and I thought the relationship with Tabitha was unrealistic and weird.
This is a YA urban fantasy book for anyone who loves all the fantastical creatures of every land. There is cute and clever dialogue. I personally didn’t connect with Reagan, the main character (I don’t like plots where the main character is awesome all the time) and I thought the relationship with Tabitha was unrealistic and weird.
March 9, 2022
WOW! This story felt like it was in my head
WOW! This story felt like it was happening in my head. I remember wishing to see magic, looking for imps in the woods and building faerie doors on tree trunks. Reading the description had me thinking 50/50 I would like the story. Wrong! I got so sucked in I read it in a day!
WOW! This story felt like it was happening in my head. I remember wishing to see magic, looking for imps in the woods and building faerie doors on tree trunks. Reading the description had me thinking 50/50 I would like the story. Wrong! I got so sucked in I read it in a day!
July 1, 2024
Beautiful story and an amazing read!
I honestly wasn’t expecting much from this book but it went well and truly beyond. This book is for everyone out there who longs for a chance to slip into fantasy and feels trapped in this mundane world. This book is for everyone who Just. Wants. To. Be. Heard.
I honestly wasn’t expecting much from this book but it went well and truly beyond. This book is for everyone out there who longs for a chance to slip into fantasy and feels trapped in this mundane world. This book is for everyone who Just. Wants. To. Be. Heard.
May 12, 2020
I LOVED this book. I love the intermingling of magic with a mature teenage heroine. I love the world building, the mix of mythologies, and the emotional development concerning the parents. I really really want to read the next book and can't believe it took me so long to read this one!
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