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A review by lindseythelibrarian
Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune
dark
emotional
hopeful
relaxing
sad
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This story deals with a lot of difficult topics surrounding death so make sure to check the Trigger Warnings if you are at all concerned.
The story:
Regardless of the difficulty of this story, it is still sweet and enjoyable to read. This story is definitely one focused on character development and does have a plot but it's found more toward the last third of the book. However, all the characters are so enjoyable, different, and alive that I found it to be such an enjoyable read.
Audiobook:
I thought the narrator was just delightful. The deepness of Hugo's voice, the lightness of May's--the variety and character he brought to every single voice in this story was fantastic.
One small issue I had:
There was ONE problematic aspect that I identified in this book and it's (TW bt for the spoiler <spoiler>the fact that Cameron killed himself to be with Wallace, his suicide ultimately seems like it was rewarded. This might be something I would not want someone going through this kind of grief to read. I mean, he technically did not kill himself to be with the love of his life, but it still seemed like cause and effect.</spoiler>
Recommendation:
Overall, if you are not concerned regarding the TW, I would suggest you read this book if you enjoy Klune's other writings, like enjoyable characters and following their growth, and want to be transported to a cozy tea shop.
The story:
Regardless of the difficulty of this story, it is still sweet and enjoyable to read. This story is definitely one focused on character development and does have a plot but it's found more toward the last third of the book. However, all the characters are so enjoyable, different, and alive that I found it to be such an enjoyable read.
Audiobook:
I thought the narrator was just delightful. The deepness of Hugo's voice, the lightness of May's--the variety and character he brought to every single voice in this story was fantastic.
One small issue I had:
There was ONE problematic aspect that I identified in this book and it's (TW bt for the spoiler <spoiler>the fact that Cameron killed himself to be with Wallace, his suicide ultimately seems like it was rewarded. This might be something I would not want someone going through this kind of grief to read. I mean, he technically did not kill himself to be with the love of his life, but it still seemed like cause and effect.</spoiler>
Recommendation:
Overall, if you are not concerned regarding the TW, I would suggest you read this book if you enjoy Klune's other writings, like enjoyable characters and following their growth, and want to be transported to a cozy tea shop.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Cancer, Child death, Death, Grief, Murder, Panic attacks/disorders, and Suicide