emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I picked up The House in the Cerulean Sea for my book club after hearing overwhelmingly positive buzz, and while it lived up to much of that praise, it also confirmed some of my expectations about what kind of book it would be. 
The book's exploration of acceptance as a theme felt especially relevant. Klune's critique of institutional systems through Linus's work at DICOMY becomes increasingly sharp as Linus begins to see outside the bureaucratic bubble he's lived in. This commentary feels particularly important in our current times, when we need to remain mindful of how systems can dehumanize rather than serve. 
I'll admit the book is fairly predictable and simplistic, but I was surprised to find that this actually served the story's cozy, comforting tone rather than detracting from it. Sometimes a story that unfolds exactly as you expect can still be deeply satisfying—and this one delivered a genuinely enjoyable ending that left me feeling warm and hopeful. 
The House in the Cerulean Sea won't surprise you, but it will likely charm you. It's perfect for readers seeking comfort, hope, and a gentle reminder about the importance of seeing people for who they truly are.

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adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The audiobook narrator is phenomenal! 

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emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I loved the queer representation in this book! It's so important that queer people get stories that present them in a positive light, and this story definitely has that! 

The characters are extremely lovable and the distinct writing style really contributes to the story. I love the focus on found family, how love can overcome prejudice, and the other important life lessons this book has to offer. I especially liked Linus's character growth-he changes quite radically from the beginning to the end of the story and it's heartwarming to see! Ultimately, this book is a great story about what it means to truly find your purpose in life. It's a great reminder that it's never too late to change your life. You may feel hopeless and stuck, but as long as you follow your values and make decisions that feel right to you, you will make it far! 

The only thing I wasn't sure about is the whole
Arthur being a phoenix thing. I understand that it's fantasy and anything can happen, but I wasn't sure how exactly he could be both a bird and a human. But I didn't think about it too much because again, it's fantasy.
 

This book is perfect if you're looking for a lighthearted, feel good read with great characters and a lot of whimsy and charm! 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous funny inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This book made me laugh and cry in almost equal measure. It’s easily my favorite book I’ve read recently, highly recommend 

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adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
emotional hopeful lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Ive rated the book a face value. But Ive read some things online that mention this book was inspired by the forced removal of indigenous children from their homes. I dont know if that is true or not but in reflecting on it, I dont see this book as justifying or glorifying that. While it deals with an orphanage as a central part of the story, it seems more about humanising children who are in orphanages despite broken government systems. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

chauncey i love you

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