A review by rieriereads
Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing sad 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

3.5

We live, and we breathe. We die, and we still feel like breathing. It’s not always the big deaths, either. There are little deaths, because that’s what grief is.

 
Under the Whispering Door is the second book I've read by TJ Klune. I think The House in the Cerulean Sea is better, but UTWD was still a good read. 
 
The book talks about life, death, grief, falling behind, and regret. I loved the diversity of characters shown and how life after death is portrayed. I also liked how you could see how Wallace grew throughout the story. As you go along, you get to reflect on his past actions along with him. You go on a rollercoaster of emotions, but no matter what, you root for him to always be better.
 
For me, the pacing and overall plot of the book were good, but I waited for them to be better. There were definitely funny, sad, and reflective moments in the book, but I think they weren't memorable enough to leave me with a book hangover. The ending for me was a bit predictable. I wish something had been changed

(like Wallace actually going to the door instead of being a reaper)

, but overall, it was alright.
 
I would definitely recommend Under the Whispering Door. Although it's not necessarily my cup of tea, I know many would enjoy it.
 
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My rating system
 
5 🌟:- Life-changing, a new favorite read
4 ⭐ - I loved it. There were parts, though, that I didn't like.
3 ⭐ - I liked it the most common star rating I give.
2 ⭐: It was okay, but it's not memorable. I wouldn't reread it.
1 ⭐: I hated it but decided not to DNF.
Note: I don't rate memoirs or
autobiographies.