Rating: 5 Stars
Release Date: September 10, 2024
Format: Hardcover (Personal Library) + Audiobook (Borrowed from Library)
Publisher: Tor Books
The long awaited sequel to TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea, Somewhere Beyond the Sea, was well worth the wait. Following the events of the first book, Linus Baker is settling into life on Marsyas Island with the kids, Zoe, and Arthur. However, after an attempt to change the minds of the public via testimony to the government goes awry, their way of life is threatened and they must work together to make sure the children are not taken away.
All of the children have their own personalities, and it wove together beautifully to create the tapestry that is those on Marsyas Island. David, the newest member of the family and a young yeti, was adorable in his mannerisms and love for the dramatic arts. Readers are introduced to some of the difficult moments in Arthur and all of the childrens’ pasts, and it was both heartbreaking and encouraging to see what they’ve overcome. The author makes very strong commentaries on the idea of what a family should like (spoiler: there’s no one right answer), foster care, and government. In the acknowledgement section, the author mentioned that he wanted to be the antithesis to J.K. Rowling, and I think he achieved all of that and more.
Daniel Henning did an excellent job of bringing the story to life with his performance in the audiobook. I loved how he captured Lucy’s mischievousness, Chauncey’s radiant love for life (and being a bellhop), and Sal’s growing maturity and determination to protect his brothers and sisters. I’m also quite impressed with how he brought Arthur’s phoenix to life.
Overall, an excellent book and a great close to the story of Marsyas Island. I loved the twists and turns, and how the book closed. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy found family, diverse casts of characters, LGBTQ+ romances, and a little bit of magic in the everyday life.
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