avc109 's review for:

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

3.0

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2.75 ⭐️ Reeeally wanted to love this more. The first book remains one of my top favorites, but this one just felt so unnecessary and overall preachy?? Like I LOVE reading about inclusion and LGBT characters and seeing justice for the under-represented. Of course that stuff is great and I actively seek it out!! But this book felt like it was crafted around a political viewpoint instead of the fantasy world and characters that shined in the first book. It was as the though the narrative was written to tick off buzzwords and force in diversity while ignoring a more engaging plot. I felt like I was being beaten over the head with the same repetitive lectures on representation, parenting, inner truth etc. I just kept thinking “Yes, I agree!! Now let’s get this story going!” I’m all for fighting against bigotry and oppression but the execution lacked the heart and genuine spirit of the first book. I’m so sorry, TJ!! I do still love you and your quest to be a strong voice for the queer community.