The House in the Cerulean Sea - TJ Klune

Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: T.J. Klune
Genre: Paranormal, LGBTQ+
Rating: 4/5
# pages: Audiobook ~13hrs
Date read: September 2020, October 2024

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.


So very, very different from TJ Klune's other books. It never fails to surprise me how easily he navigates between different styles and genres. This is unlike any of the other books I've read by him (although he still loves the word 'dashing' ;) ), but just as charming as any of them.

I grew very fond of all the children at Marsyas Orphanage and found it surprisingly difficult to leave them all behind when the story ended. It's not really a book that lends itself to sequels, but I do hope that TJ Klune will explore this universe further, and perhaps let us see how the children fare in the future, as visitors in other books.

Midnight Sun - Stephenie Meyer

Title: Midnight Sun (Twilight #1.5)
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Genre: Paranormal
Rating: 4/5
# pages: 675
Date read: September, 2020

When Edward Cullen and Bella Swan met in Twilight, an iconic love story was born. But until now, fans have heard only Bella's side of the story. At last, readers can experience Edward's version in the long-awaited companion novel, Midnight Sun.

This unforgettable tale as told through Edward's eyes takes on a new and decidedly dark twist. Meeting Bella is both the most unnerving and intriguing event he has experienced in all his years as a vampire. As we learn more fascinating details about Edward's past and the complexity of his inner thoughts, we understand why this is the defining struggle of his life. How can he justify following his heart if it means leading Bella into danger?


Stephenie Meyer writes ridiculously readable books. Even in a case such as this, where I know pretty much exactly what's going to happen next, her writing still draws me in. Not that I'd call her writing good as such - but it's certainly engaging.

As for the book itself, it is exactly how you'd expect it to be. All the events of "Twilight", just seen from Edward's point of view. I wouldn't recommend reading it without having read "Twilight" first, as it does take some prior knowledge for granted, but it's quite obvious that Stephenie Meyer's writing has improved since she first wrote "Twilight", which means I actually think I prefer this one... either that, or Edward's emo-ness is just slightly less annoying to read about than Bella's constant insecurities.

Either way, I found it hard to put down, and am now trying to figure out if I want to reread the rest of the series as well.