The Dollmakers: A Novel from the Fallen Peaks

(Paperback)

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Description

In this dark and enchanting stand-alone fantasy from debut author Lynn Buchanan--complete with black and white illustrations and a full-wrap illustrated cover--discover a world centered around destructive, all-consuming monsters; the magical dolls designed to fight this force; and the artisans tasked with creating demon-slaying dolls. A touch cozy fantasy and a touch horror, The Dollmakers is perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli films, the works of TJ Klune and Travis Baldree, and readers of Juniper & Thorn and The Goblin Emperor.

In the country called One, dollmakers are vital members of the community. An artisans doll is the height of societys accomplishments, while a guards doll is the only thing standing between the people of One and the Shod: vicious, cobbled monstrosities that will tear apart any structureliving or dead, inanimate or otherwiseto add to their horde.

Apprentice Shean of Pearl is a brilliant dollmaker. With her clever dolls, she intends to outsmart and destroy the Shod, once and for alla destiny shes worked her whole life toward accomplishing. But when the time comes for her dolls to be licensed, shes told her work is too beautiful and delicate to fight. A statement that wounds and infuriates her; the Shod killed everyone she loved. How could her fate be anything but fighting them

In an attempt to help her see a new path for herself, Sheans mentor sends her on a journey to the remote village called Web, urging her to glean some wisdom from Ikiisa, a reclusive and well-respected guard dollmaker. But Shean has another plan: if she can convince the village of Web of her talents, the Licensor Guild will have to reconsider and grant her a guards license. And what better way to convince them than challenging Ikiisa and instating herself as the official dollmaker of Web Once shes done that, proving her dolls worth in the fight against the Shod will be simple.

As simple, that is, as calling the Shod to Web...

Reviews

"An engaging new voice with excellent worldbuilding. I enjoyed The Dollmakers, and can't wait to see what is next!" New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson "The Dollmakers is an evocative and engaging fantasy filled with a lush worldbuilding and a killer,creepy premise. The doll magic system is one of the most creative and unique magic systems I've ever read. Shean is a complex character that grows with the reader as they continue along adarkjourney toward that light in the far distance. Buchanan has written an absolutely captivating debut, and I can't wait to read their next book." Wesley Chu, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Art of Prophecy "Buchanans novel echoes with alluring nostalgia thats sure to ensnare others to the very end." Library Journal "The Dollmakersis guaranteed to be a contender for one of the strongest fantasy debuts of the year 2024." Petrik Leo, Novel Notions "A unique tale of self-discovery and transformation, filled with fabulous magic and monsters, featuring a stunning character arc with an immensely satisfying ending. I couldn't put it down!" Sarah Beth Durst, award-winning author of The Spellshop "Never before have I had so much fun rooting for a character I hate." Dan Wells

Author Bio

Lynn Buchananis a fantasy writer based in the foothills of some impressive, chilly mountains in Utah. Shes a 2019 graduate of the Odyssey Writing Workshop and holds an MFA in fiction from Brigham Young University, where she taught creative writing. When she isnt writing about monster-fighting dolls, moody painters, and mummified arms used as dancing props, she enjoys playing the oboe, buying houseplants, and watching Ghibli films.