From the very first page I loved this book. I don't know what I expected from it - but it delivered a truly heartwarming story of finding yourself.

Did you realise found family could be an octopus? Me neither, but I'm here for it. Marcellus is by far the best character here and I happily would have read a book entirely about him. His 'voice' was utterly believable and it was brilliant seeing both sides of their conversation and how the humans would misunderstand him. Marcellus is our true hero and he gets the ending he deserves.

At its core, this just felt hopeful. There's a joy and peace to be found from looking to the past, it can unlock a future that once felt out of reach.

I didn't expect the mystery element of this book - but watching the puzzle pieces slowly fall into place was brilliant. I truly didn't think it would all tie together the way it did and it was pure mastery from Van Pelt pulling that off.

I adored this book from beginning to end. It's a must read for anyone looking for an unexpectedly joyful and hopeful story. Looking forward to more from this owner.