Boy of Chaotic Making by Charlie N. Holmberg

This early review copy was gifted to me by 47North through NetGalley. This is no way impacts the rating of the book. All of my reviews contain my honest opinions.

Title: Boy of Chaotic Making

Series: Whimbrel House

Author: Charlie N. Holmberg

Release Date: February 13, 2024

Publisher: 47North

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Source: digital, NetGalley

TW: accidents, adoption, arranged/forced marriage, blood, burning/burns, death/dying, drowning, family conflict, injury, nightmares

Synopsis

A boy like no other embarks on a transformative journey of magic and self-discovery in the next enchanting Whimbrel House novel by Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Charlie N. Holmberg.

Merritt Fernsby’s life has changed considerably since he inherited Whimbrel House. He’s engaged to Hulda Larkin, who opened his eyes to the uncanny. And he’s grown quite protective of his uncle Owein—several generations, and iterations, removed. Owen is presently inhabiting the body of a mixed-breed terrier when Merritt receives a missive from none other than Alexandrina Victoria, the Queen of England: I am interested in your dog.

It’s the queen’s duty to the peerage to keep British wizardry empowered. Her offer: England will find a human vessel for Owein, marry him into the royal family, and add this remarkable soul-shifter to its lineage. For Owein, a boy trapped in the body of a pup, it’s a dream come true. How can Merritt refuse? However, once they are in London and in consortium with a necromancer, the situation doesn’t feel right, both with their hosts and the house they inhabit. Owein is having nightmares. And Hulda’s premonitions warn of danger in Merritt’s future. Clearly, someone doesn’t want them in town.

But after two hundred years of being cursed to drift, Owein is determined to chart his own destiny. He’s ready to defy whatever chaos is coming. After all, Owein is the master of chaos, and with Merritt and Hulda’s love and magical support, he can overcome anything.

Thoughts

This book, and this series, is utterly beautiful. Charlie Holmberg writes such wholesome, heartwarming relationships between her characters, whether they be friends, family, or lovers. My heart ached over their misfortunes and swelled for their happiness.

I was so happy this book focused on Owein’s story because he’s such an endearing character, and I’m excited for his story to continue. My heart broke for him in the first book when I found out he’s a twelve-year-old boy turned house, then I cheered for him in the second book as he got to experience life again in corporeal form. I hoped so strongly for him that he would get to be a boy again with a voice of his own in Boy of Chaotic Making.

Whimbrel House is one of my absolute favorite found family stories. The dynamics between the characters are so genuine and tender, it’s impossible not to get emotionally invested. The way they support each other through thick and thin, and the love that binds them, is truly special. It’s a tender, moving story that has made me cry both happy and sad tears on many occasions.

In this third installment of the series, I found myself even more engrossed in the magical world Holmberg has crafted. The plot twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and I was continually impressed by the depth and complexity of the characters. Owein’s journey is particularly compelling. His struggle to reclaim his humanity and voice is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Holmberg’s writing style is another highlight for me. Her prose is elegant and evocative, perfectly capturing the emotional highs and lows of the story. The world-building is rich and immersive, making it easy to lose oneself in the enchanting setting of Whimbrel House and beyond. The balance between romance, fantasy, and adventure is expertly maintained, ensuring that there is never a dull moment.

Moreover, the themes explored in Boy of Chaotic Making resonate deeply with me. The ideas of identity, transformation, and the power of love and friendship are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding layers of meaning to the story. It’s rare to find a series that consistently delivers on all fronts, but Holmberg has achieved just that.

In conclusion, Boy of Chaotic Making is a beautiful book that continues the heartwarming and magical journey of Owein and the members of Whimbrel House. It’s a story that evokes a wide range of emotions, from heartache to joy, and it has left a lasting impression on me. This series has become one of my favorites, and I eagerly await the continuation of Owein’s story and the adventures that lie ahead.