The Dollmakers Authored By Lynn Buchanan

In The Dollmakers, debut author Lynn Buchanan weaves a dark and enchanting tale set in the mystical country of One, where dollmaking is both an art form and a crucial defense against a terrifying threat. In this world, the Shod—vicious, cobbled-together monstrosities—ravage anything in their path, and only the magical dolls crafted by skilled dollmakers can protect humanity from their onslaught.

Shean of Pearl, a brilliant and fiercely ambitious apprentice, is determined to prove her worth as more than just an artisan. Her dolls, intricately designed and imbued with power, are meant to be formidable weapons, not mere playthings. When the Licensor Guild dismisses her work as that of an artisan rather than a guard, Shean’s frustration boils over, leading her to punch a licensor in the face—a bold act that sets her on a new path.

Banished to the remote village of Web, Shean is tasked with learning from Ikiisa, a reclusive guard dollmaker. But Shean’s pride and impatience make her skeptical of the wisdom this "country bumpkin" might offer. Convinced that her dolls are superior, she hatches a plan to showcase her talents and force the Licensor Guild to reconsider her status.

However, in her quest for recognition, Shean inadvertently unleashes a danger that threatens not just the village of Web but the entire country of One. As the Shod draw closer, Shean must confront the consequences of her actions and discover whether she can truly become the guardian she longs to be—or if her ambition will doom them all.

The Dollmakers is a captivating blend of cozy fantasy and horror, perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli, TJ Klune, and Juniper & Thorn. It explores the power of creation, the journey of self-discovery, and the fine line between ambition and hubris in a world where art is the key to survival. 📚❤️