Somewhere Beyond The Sea
TJ Klune
Apr 15, 2025
4.25 / 5
Plot & Structure
4.5 / 5
Character Development
4.0 / 5
Emotional Engagement
4.5 / 5
Writing Quality
4.0 / 5
Trigger Warnings: Child Abuse, Discrimination, Bullying, Government Persecution
“I am color. I am fire. I am the sun, and I will burn away the shadows until only light remains.”
With this blazing declaration of self acceptance, TJ Klune delivers a sequel that, while perhaps not quite as effortlessly captivating as its predecessor, still overflows with the same boundless love and hope that made the first book so extraordinary.
"Somewhere Beyond the Sea" finds our beloved family facing new challenges as they navigate the complexities of legal battles and public scrutiny. Watching Linus and Arthur fight for their children's future with such fierce determination is deeply moving, and their unwavering commitment to protecting their found family will make your heart swell with pride.
Our precious island family returns in full force, each child more endearing than ever. Lucy continues his delightful reign of terror.Talia's beard stroking proclamations could cure anyone's bad day, while Theodore's button collection and gentle nature reminds us that the quietest souls often hold the greatest power.And sweet Sal, our shapeshifting wonder, brings fierce loyalty and protective instincts that make your heart ache with gratitude.
New addition David adds delicious complexity to the family dynamic, his journey from isolation to belonging handled with Klune's signature tenderness. Watching him learn to trust again while our established family learns to expand their circle creates some of the book's most touching moments.
Linus and Arthur face their greatest test yet, navigating legal battles with the kind of fierce protectiveness that would make any parent proud. Their love story continues to unfold with the comfortable intimacy of a relationship that's found its rhythm complete with Arthur's delightfully terrible attempts at humor that somehow make him even more loveable.
What saves this sequel from feeling like a mere continuation is Klune's masterful handling of deeper social issues. The exploration of prejudice, acceptance, and the courage required to stand up for what's right never feels preachy, instead emerging naturally from these characters we've grown to love so deeply.
The emotional payoffs are worth the journey's slower moments. When the family faces its greatest challenges, the love they share becomes a beacon of hope that illuminates every page. Klune reminds us that families built on love and choice can weather any storm.
A worthy continuation that proves sometimes the greatest magic lies in choosing to shine brightly, even when the world prefers shadows.