Malamander - Thomas Taylor

If the impossible is possible anywhere, it'll be possible in Eerie-on-Sea.

Come and visit Cheerie-on-Sea, a place full of legends. In summer you can get an ice cream and play on the beach, but in winter is when Eerie-on-Sea gets really interesting. Herbie is in charge of Lost and Found at the Grand Nautilus Hotel where he has worked for as long as he can remember, but the lost things he deals with has never been a person before! 12 years ago, baby Violet was left at the hotel and her parents disappeared. Now she's back to investigate and find out what happened to them. Who better to help than the resident Lost-and-Founder?

This book is full of wonders. You can visit the Eerie Book Dispensary and get a book prescription from a mermonkey. Or find some beautiful sea glass at the Flotsamporium. Or see some history at the museum in the castle. There's Erwin, the talking cat, who only talks when no one is taking notice. And of course the local legendary monster, the Malamander, with claws and needle-like teeth. 

Herbie and Violet are perfectly matched. While Herbie is cautious and tries (usually unsuccessfully) to follow the rules, Violet runs wildly towards any danger and is always happy to take risks. Herbie keeps them safe while Violet ensures they never miss a clue. I'm really looking forward to their future adventures!

With delicious sounding names like Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma, I was craving sweets throughout the book! So of course they had to inspire my Malamander cocktail. In a shaker with ice, pour 1 shot violet gin and 1 shot lemon juice. Shake and strain into a cocktail glass and top with prosecco. Garnish with a Malamander egg, but if you haven't managed to find one yet you can use a cherry.