The third installment of the Whimbrel House series was a delightful read/listen and this series has quickly become one of my favorites for its cozy, low stakes vibe. In this story, Owein's journey of growing up and becoming a 'real boy' again is explored, as well as the developing relationship between Hulda and Merritt with their wedding day quickly approaching. While Boy of Chaotic Making lacks in the 'creepy' elements of magic and antagonists, I felt like it was a good balance between life threatening and just plain character development - had the story featured more 'high stakes' problems like the previous installments, I think it would have been both unbelievable and too similar to Keeper of Enchanted Rooms and Heir of Uncertain Magic. Instead, we were able to breath in more of the character work and watch them grow as individuals and as a family. 

Spoilery and character development thoughts: 

• I loved seeing how Owein tackled his nightmares and fears that have prevented him from growing up over the last 200+ years. I do wish there were a little more depth, but like most pre-teen boys, hearing advice from someone other than close family/friends (Merritt and Hulda) can quickly change a viewpoint - his nightmare and fears in this case. I was genuinely scared that we were going to lose Owein at the end, and while it wasn't the first time the series has made me cry, I could feel Merritt's emotions through the page during the wind scene and while he and Hulda were waiting to hear news. I'm very excited to see how his character changes in the final installment. 
• Hulda and Merritt's relationship is absolutely precious and the elopement was perfect for them. Watching Hulda relax her armor and open up to Merritt about her feelings and fears, and Merritt being ready to accept and love her with her insecurities was beautiful. I love this little family and want more and more of them!

The next, and last, installment of the Whimbrel House series, Wizard of Most Wicked Ways, does not have a release date as of this review, but I am both looking forward to it and sad that this will be the last we see of the Whimbrel crew. As we ended #3 with a letter regarding the Ohio facility, I think the final book will focus on

Myra

, but I could be way off base. Whatever comes next, this series is fantastic and definitely worth the read.