A review by sirkeili
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious tense 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? It's complicated

5.0

I am absolutely floored by how much I love this book. From Linus' introduction, to his growth throughout the novel, to his final arc where he shines the brightest had me hooked.

Linus is both incredibly oblivious, and incredibly endearing. He reminds me a lot of Aziraphale; trying to do his job perfectly, but ultimately failing due to his endless compassion, empathy and boundless love.  The amount of times I was screaming both "Linus, for the love of god, LOOK" followed by me nearly crying at how soft he was is numerable.

The kids?  Arthur?  Zoe?  All of them were so endearing, and I loved them all so much. Theo and Lucy both are top contenders for my favourite kid, mostly due to their antics, but all of them are hilarious gremlins and their meddling is priceless.

I was not surprised Arthur was magical, as the hints were there, but the fact he was a FUCKING PHEONIX did actually.  The scene where Linus protects Helen from the rock, and you see how absolutely lethal Arthur can be in his form was absolutely cinematic.  The fact they have to have Zoe babysit the kids so they can bone each other in peace was absolutely hilarious as well, the poor things can't catch a break.  They're adorable dads, and the fact they are trying to save more children to give them a safe home, made me so damn emotional.


Overall, this feel-good story about found family and overcoming our own self-made limitations is a phenomenal novel.  I hope to see more of Linus and his family soon, I do miss them so! ❤️
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