
Member Reviews

TJ Klune never disappoints. I loved The House In The Cerulean Sea, so I was beyond excited to see that there was going to be a sequel. The first book was stronger than this one, but I was not disappointed by this one at all. Will be recommending to all. Thank you NetGalley and Tor Books for this ARC.

I love TJ Klune and try to read each one of his new releases. I was so happy to jump back in where House in the Serulean Sea left off. I feel that TJ Klune always writes in the definition of cozy and I highly recommend Somewhere Beyond the Sea.

I loved being back in this world and getting a lot more of Arthur’s background through his perspective. I absolutely loved the children in the first book, and I was so happy their personalities continued to shine in this one. Any part dealing with all of them and their antics was my favorite. The way Arthur lets them learn and work through problems is heartwarming and I loved the life lessons along the way. The found family theme continued and was done in a great way. Even though a couple parts could be long winded I still liked the emotions from the characters and the battle between Arthur and the government.
Thank you @netgalley @torbooks for the gifted copy.

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that beautifully combines elements of fantasy, romance, and self-discovery. Klune's storytelling is both captivating and tender, making this novel a delightful read from beginning to end.
One particularly magical moment in the book is when the protagonist, Liam, encounters a mysterious sea creature that changes his perspective on life and love. This scene is not only pivotal to the plot but also showcases Klune’s talent for creating vivid and imaginative worlds. The detailed description of the encounter, coupled with the emotional depth of Liam’s realization, leaves a lasting impression on the reader and propels the story into a realm of wonder and possibility.
Throughout the novel, Klune excels in developing multi-faceted characters who are both relatable and endearing. Liam’s journey from a lonely, disillusioned man to someone who embraces the extraordinary is both inspiring and heartwarming. The relationships he forms along the way, particularly with the enigmatic sea creature, are portrayed with such warmth and authenticity that readers can't help but become emotionally invested in his story.
This book is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will leave you with a sense of hope and wonder. TJ Klune has crafted a story that is not just to be read but to be cherished.

MY HEART!!!!! This sequel did not disappoint. It was like a warm hug from a familiar friend. It isn't often a sequel lives up to it's prequel but TJ Klune is no novice! I was enchanted and found the entire book to be a comfort.

Nobody does found family quite like TJ Klune. This sequel was a perfect continuation of the first book, and the characters are all fantastic. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for review.

Thank you Tor Publishing group for the eARc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own!
This story did not quite hit the same mark that I had at the end of the first one. However, I will say listening to some of this on audiobook really changed the book for me. The different character's voices and everything really came alive. I thought that was a really nice touch given that the characters are all so different. This story follows all the kids after they are being cared for by Arthur. This was pretty emotional with all that they had to fight for. It really takes you on the journey of Arthur having to defend himself and the children. I thought it was beautiful the way the love Arthur has for his partner and kids really shown through. The government is trying to catch Arthur in doing something wrong or in a lie so that the kids will be forced to go live somewhere different. This story takes us through most of that battle.
Read if you enjoy:
LGBTQ+ Rep.
Romance
Found Family
Fantasy

I adored the House in the Cerulean Sea and was worried that this wouldn't be as good or would hurt the original story. I was wrong - it was wonderful.

I was so excited to receive a sample of the sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea! I love Linus and Arthur so much. Their relationship is so beautifully written, and I adored seeing more of their dynamic in this sneak peek. I hope to read the full book soon!

I loved this follow up to Cerulean Sea! The introduction of David was so fun! I can’t wait to see what other magical beings are introduced into this world in the next book.

The sequel to [Insert Book Title Here] is a heartwarming and enchanting follow-up that truly captures the magic of the original. From the moment I turned the first page, it felt like reuniting with an old friend—warm, familiar, and oh-so-comforting.
What made this book even more special was reconnecting with the kids. Watching their growth, adventures, and mischief unfold was like catching up with family members you’ve missed dearly. Their quirks and personalities shone even brighter this time around, and I found myself smiling, laughing, and even tearing up at their heartfelt moments.
This sequel didn’t just meet the expectations set by the first book—it exceeded them. It’s a tale brimming with charm, heart, and just the right amount of nostalgia. If you loved the first book, this is a must-read.

Going back to Marsyas Island with Arthur and Linus and the children, Arthur has been asked to testify about his experience with the Department of Care of Magical Peoples. This opens Arthur up to memories he didn't expect but also opens up their home to be inspected. While in the past, Arthur had been able to work through the inspection, this time, its found out that the Department is meddling in ways they shouldn't be and in ways that Arthur and Linus don't know how to fix. The children may be in a world of trouble.
Yet again being brought into this world was such a joy. I really liked getting to know more of Arthur's back story. I also loved the addition of David. He was such a sweet little soul. And the ending with Linus and Arthur getting married felt like an absolute cherry on top.
Thank you so much for the ARC.

I was so happy to read this book! I loved the first and I equally enjoyed the second as well! TJ Klune is brilliant and his writing is fantastic! Highly recommend this book!

I’m obsessed already! I wanted to wait until I had the full book to read the excerpt, but I waited to long cause I can already tell I will love this!

How do you put into words what this book is for people? These books are a balm. They warn the soul. These stories are so full of heart and resilience. All of the characters have a special place in my heart and will forever be literary favorites.
I received an advanced copy of this beautiful book. All opinions are my own.

I can already feel how unpopular of an opinion this is going to be (not my coworker literally staring at me with glowing embers for eyes)…..but I will speak my truth gosh darnit. This book was ALL fan service. Don’t get me wrong, I ate it up like 300 pages of Lucy the Antichrist?! Say less brother. But what made House in the Cerulean Sea so unique and special just doesn’t hit the same here. It does make sense because Cerulean Sea was very unique to its time, being the first really inclusive “cozy fantasy” to hit the mainstream, but I don’t think that’s an excuse for this one to not be as good. There was little to no real plot or character development, and while the overall message of “sometimes you can’t change people’s minds and you just have to stand up for yourself and what you know is right” is REALLY good and present - the conflict or resolution to make it hit home just feels inevitable and 2D. I’m not trying to take away from the absolute WHIMSY of it all, and maybe if I just wanted to feel good this would be 5 ⭐️s, but I was promised Arthur’s deep dark past and I got Arthur being an incredible dad to his kids for 300 pages. I’m not complaining I stg I’m just saying 😭 i did love David the yeti, he was fantastic and his dynamic with Lucy was everythinggg. Overall though, I was a little disappointed by the epilogue-esque feeling of it all. Sorry ☹️

Was not able to read the whole book but the beginning few chapters were incredible! It was amazing to hear the characters again and see where their story is going to lead!

A wonderful follow up to the House By the Cerulean Sea. It's a sequel I didn't know I needed. I wouldn't mind if there were more books set in this world.

*Somewhere Beyond the Sea* by TJ Klune is a beautifully written, heartfelt journey of healing, love, and acceptance. Klune's signature blend of humor and tenderness shines through, crafting a rich, immersive world filled with characters who are impossible not to root for. The emotional depth, whimsical charm, and life-affirming messages make this novel an unforgettable, five-star read.

Somewhere Beyond the Sea, the highly anticipated sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea, takes everything readers loved about the first book and amplifies it with new layers of heart, humor, and magic. TJ Klune’s signature warmth shines through as he explores deeper themes of healing, acceptance, and the power of found family, while introducing some unforgettable new characters—like the lovable David the Yeti.
Arthur’s personal journey really stands out in this book. While helping the magical children at the orphanage, Arthur is forced to confront some painful parts of his past. Through his connection with the kids, he starts to heal his own emotional wounds. It’s a beautiful process of giving and receiving love, where Arthur realizes that by supporting the children, he’s also giving himself the chance to heal. Watching his growth and the way he helps the children navigate their own struggles is incredibly moving. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to work through our own issues is by being there for others.
Then there’s David the Yeti— David is a gentle "monster" with a heart of gold. He struggles with being misunderstood and tries to find his place in a world that’s often fearful of him. His interactions with the children are full of humor, warmth, and tenderness. Through his bond with Arthur, both characters work through their emotional scars, showing that even the most misunderstood creatures deserve love, acceptance, and a chance to heal.
Klune’s writing remains as captivating as ever, with his knack for creating richly layered characters and emotional moments that feel both magical and relatable. The world of Somewhere Beyond the Sea is vibrant and filled with fantasy, but what really sets this story apart is the emotional depth. It’s a perfect balance of the whimsical and the profoundly personal. The pacing keeps the story moving, and you’ll find yourself equally invested in the magical world and the personal growth each character undergoes.
At its core, Somewhere Beyond the Sea is about healing and forgiveness. It’s a beautiful reminder that the connections we form with others can be life-changing. Arthur’s emotional journey, paired with the introduction of David the Yeti, makes for a deeply moving and magical reading experience. If you loved The House in the Cerulean Sea, you’ll find this sequel to be an incredibly satisfying continuation of a world that celebrates love in all its forms and proves that even the deepest wounds can heal with time and care.
I want to thank Netgalley for ARC