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

emotional funny 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

4.25

Characters: 9/10

The characters in The House in the Cerulean Sea were undeniably memorable. Linus Baker, as the protagonist, felt multidimensional, carrying an arc that showed substantial growth. The secondary characters, especially the magical children, were vibrant and distinct, with each possessing quirks and depth that felt essential to the narrative. Arthur Parnassus was a grounding yet mysterious figure, adding layers to the story. I cared deeply about the characters and their relationships. They were so well-drawn that I could describe their personalities to anyone easily. However, I occasionally wished for a bit more complexity in some of the secondary adult figures.

Atmosphere/Setting: 8.5/10

The setting was vividly described, and the whimsical yet isolating atmosphere of the orphanage was beautifully rendered. The balance between realism and fantasy made the world immersive. The details of the house and the island created a strong sense of place. However, some moments outside the magical orphanage—like Linus’s workplace—felt slightly repetitive, which could have been expanded to enrich the tone.

Writing Style: 8/10

Klune’s prose was charming, fluid, and easy to follow. The writing struck an effective balance between humor, heart, and reflection. It engaged me without becoming overly sentimental, which suited the whimsical tone of the book. However, at times, the dialogue felt a bit too polished or idealized, which pulled me out of the immersion.

Plot: 8.5/10

The story unfolded at a measured pace, with moments that surprised me. The emotional beats and themes of acceptance and found family were woven seamlessly. While the conclusion was satisfying, some twists felt predictable, and the plot’s simplicity might not appeal to those seeking a more complex narrative.

Intrigue: 9/10

I was consistently invested in the story. The mystery of the children’s identities and the tension surrounding Linus’s task kept me turning the pages. There were moments when I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. I felt a sense of attachment to the world, which made me eager to see the resolution.

Logic/Relationships: 8/10

The relationships in the book were heartfelt and believable, particularly the bonds between Linus and the children. The world-building was mostly consistent, but some of the logistics of the magical government system felt slightly underdeveloped. Still, the emotional authenticity of the relationships made the story compelling.

Enjoyment: 9/10

I thoroughly enjoyed The House in the Cerulean Sea. It offered a warm, tender escape and delivered an uplifting message of love and acceptance. While not perfect, its heart and charm made it a book I would happily recommend.