Review by csifbi23 - Somewhere Beyond the Sea

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csifbi23 's review for:

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

4.0

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

What to say about Somewhere Beyond the Sea... It's the sequel to one of my favorite books, and it has a distinct additional...bite to it. It is not the warm hug of the original book, but rather captures some of the current day societal issues that cause frustration, trauma, and outrage in so many. In some ways, it was really great to see the stories of these characters continue and go beyond the idyllic island in the cerulean sea. I appreciated expanding the scope of the book because it helped look at these relevant and important issues. And showing the story from Arthur's point of view, and his anger and frustration...it was easy to empathize with. I truly loved coming back to the island, and seeing these characters grow and interact.

My one major frustration was the deus ex machina.

The resolution to the story felt truly impossible, and therefore it felt as though resolving these issues in the real world will be unable to happen without magic, which is kind of unfortunate. I mean, yes, we can and will slowly change things for the better if we all keep trying, but we cannot magically banish people and create safe spaces from the ocean floor. Though I truly wish it were so...

Anyway, all in all, a good return to the cerulean sea... it's as if we all have matured a little as the book focuses more on harder emotions and societal issues. It doesn't come close to replace House in the Cerulean Sea in my comfort reads, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

Content Warnings