The Hatmakers

The beginning was slow or maybe I wasn't focusing very good. However the end was fabulous! This one ended happily and wrapped up the story it was telling. It also left room for the next book and maybe even one more after that. I definitely want to revisit this world.
Cordelia has big feelings and big dreams. Goose USA little rebellious. And you never know what Sam is going to do! They make for a great team to save their country! There were moments that seemed too big for a kid to accomplish, but that's what these books are for. So I told my inner grumpy old lady to sit down and enjoy the book. I really appreciate the way their friendships are tested and the ways they grow. I also appreciate the reasons the kids have to save the day and the way the adults treat them afterwards. There is good relationship growth there as well.
I can't wait to see what happens next!

A fun story with adventure and magic!

Cordelia's family are the Hatmakers – they make hats imbued with magic to help the wearer sleep, be brave, hold peace talks – whatever is needed.

The Hatmakers has the hallmarks of any middle-grade book: quirky characters, a deceased parent, strong friendships, and standing up for what's right. It's still a unique and fun story, and the magic system is so interesting. I'd love to see even more exploration of that in more books!

I'll definitely be adding The Hatmakers to the library's collection!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Cordelia Hatmaker comes from a long line of Hatmakers. Every hat is special and made for a purpose. With war looming, all of the Makers must create items for the Princess that inspire peace. To create a peaceful item, you must have peace in your heart while making it. That is easier said than done. While the family is making the peace hat, Cordelia's father is lost at sea, making it hard for them to have happy and peaceful thoughts. Other outside matters also make it seem like someone is conspiring against them.

I loved this book so much! It's about friendship, adventure, believing in your own magic, and hope. The characters are fantastic. The story is fantastic. The ending made me want the next book right now! This is definitely an author I will read more of.

I received a copy from Net Galley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

‘'It was a wild and lightning-struck night. The kind of night that changes everything. Jagged forks of light ripped across the sky and thunder rolled in tidal waves over the rooftops and spires of London.''

Georgian London. Cordelia is the youngest member of the honourable family of the Hatmakers, one of the Makers ‘'Houses'' that are entrusted with the duty of creating the clothes of the royal family. This is a turbulent time. Cordelia's father, Prospero, is lost at sea and the threat of a war between England and France is always looming. King George is...well, king George, and the duty of the protection of the country has fallen on the shoulders of the kind Princess Georgina. Treachery and revenge have set a dangerous game in motion and our Cordelia is at the heart of this magnificent adventure.

‘'Isn't keeping secrets sort of what got everyone into this big mess in the first place?', Cordelia asked. Goose shifted in his boots. ‘My aunt told that the seventh star in the Makers' crests means we're stronger when we all work together; we're best when we're united.''

This is the first instalment in a series of adventures centred around Cordelia Hatmaker, one of the most brilliant child-protagonists you'll ever meet. Tamzin Merchant has created an absolutely beautiful, magical story of a world where hats can help people or harm them in terrible ways, where the mood and intentions of each are reflected on each creation. Where family, loyalty and peace have to stand firm against greed, despair, treachery and war, the greatest Malice of all. Where one can understand that you are never too young to set things right.

This was an amazing reading journey, perfect for Christmas and beautiful wintry nights. Written in beautiful language, full of elegant, smart, refreshing humour. The scene of Sir Hugo's visit to the Hatmakers' shop was pure perfection and I was delighted to see a sentence in perfect Modern Greek. The atmosphere of London was brilliantly depicted and the marvellous twists and surprises won't disappoint you. Sprinkled with Shakespearean references, beautiful illustrations by Paola Escobar and including a Glossary of the magic Ingredients and a very serious note of caution of their menacing cousins, this book is an unforgettable adventure.

I can't wait for Spring 2022.

‘'Forgotten magic is like a flower in winter. It disappears down into the depths of the person, and anyone looking could be forgiven for thinking it has gone away completely. But it hasn't gone - it just has to be woken up again.''

Many thanks to Penguin Random House Children's UK and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

My reviews can also be found on https://theopinionatedreaderblog.wordpress.com/