Author: TJ Klune
Series/Standalone: Standalone
Genre: Cozy Fantasy, Adult
Pages: 394
Publisher: Tor Books
Year Published: 2020
Format: Hardcover (Library Copy)
First Line: "'Oh dear,' Linus Baker said, wiping the sweat from his brow."
"A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.
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.
An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours."
My Rating: 4.5/5
This was such a cozy read. The concepts were easy to understand so the fantasy element wasn't overwhelming. The plot was so character-driven that it was easy to pick up and feel immediately immersed. The only reason this wasn't a five-star was the heavy-handed symbolism. I both loved it but also felt annoyed by it at the same time. I think that it's an entertaining and beautiful read and I would strongly recommend it for fans of Lemony Snicket or those who liked Legends & Lattes but want something leaning more urban fantasy.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
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