The House in the Cerulean Sea - TJ Klune
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Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.
When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.
But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.
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In The House in the Cerulean Sea, TJ Klune introduces us to Linus Baker, a solitary 40-year-old caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Living a quiet life in a cozy house with a mischievous cat and old records, Linus is unexpectedly assigned a top-secret mission by the stern Extremely Upper Management.
Traveling to the Marsyas Island Orphanage, Linus must confront his fears to determine the fate of this magical place. Here, he meets an enchanting cast of characters, including six extraordinary children—a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and even the Antichrist—along with the charming caretaker, Arthur Parnassus, and the mysterious Zoe Chapelwhite.
While the first few chapters focus on world-building, they set the stage for an emotional journey that truly hooks readers starting in chapter four. As Linus immerses himself in the vibrant lives of the orphanage's inhabitants, he faces a pivotal decision that will transform not just his life but those of the children he grows to love.
Klune’s portrayal of Linus is vivid; he embodies a dull, colorless existence that is beautifully contrasted by the lively, eccentric characters on the island. This stark difference brings Linus's character to life as he learns to embrace a more nuanced view of the world. Arthur, the caretaker, is a delightful presence—prim, kind, and enveloped in mystery, he becomes a father figure to the children and a source of warmth for Linus, whose feelings for him evolve throughout the story.
The children are heartwarming, each with unique traits that contribute to their family dynamic. Sal, the oldest, is a quiet boy with a hopeful heart, while Lucy, the youngest, is outspoken and fearless despite the world’s prejudices against him. Their relationships are tenderly crafted, reinforcing the central theme of found family that resonates throughout the novel.
The House in the Cerulean Sea left me laughing, cheering, and sobbing—a true emotional rollercoaster. The story beautifully explores themes of love, kindness, and the importance of connection, making it a comforting read that I know I will return to time and again.
While I would have appreciated more on-screen romance, my experience with this book was overwhelmingly positive. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of YA fantasy, especially those who cherish narratives centered on found family and kindness. Before diving in, I encourage readers to explore Klune’s inspirations and the ongoing conversations within the book community for context.
In conclusion, this enchanting tale is a must-read for anyone looking for a magical escape filled with heart and hope.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - 5 STARS FROM NATURAL NOVELS.
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