You can see all my reviews here: Books Are The New Black

This was my most anticipated release of this year. I’m so glad to say it lived up to my expectations! I loved House in the Cerulean Sea and was hoping to get more of the comfy, sweet, funny, and heart-wrenching moments. It delivered in all those aspects. There are so many times that I just laughed out loud! I love when books can just make you laugh so hard you can’t keep it in. Don’t get me wrong, we get the other emotions that we don’t love so much. I think what TJ Klune does so well is, using his humor in the most perfect times and places, which doesn’t make the sadder moments feel so devastating. There’s a lot of tough themes like loss and grief.

The absolute best part about this book is the cast of characters! I cannot express to you how much I fell in love with all of them rather quickly. I buddy read this and I remember messaging her early and telling her I love so and so! Oh, I love this person too! I think that Nelson had to be my favorite. Who doesn’t love a grandpa who is constantly pulling pranks but so full of wisdom?! I loved Mei, Hugo, and Wallace too but Nelson knew how to get the laughs. I loved the whole family aspect of this group. It made the story so much more touching and impactful, they loved each other.

The pacing of the book is a bit slow. It did take a little while to get into the story and figure out what was going on. Even though the plot was slow-moving, we did have some great moments with the characters. We do learn a lot of lessons along the way, and Klune always gives amazing quotes and moments, to make you think about life and love. The romance between Wallance and Hugo was a slow burn. If you love that type of romance then you will love this one. It was so sweet and tender. Hugo was just so amazing with everyone and his relationship with Wallace was just above and beyond.

One of my biggest issues with this book was the ending. I don’t want to ruin anything but it was a disappointment. Even though it was all predictable and I was hoping it didn’t go the way I feared, it totally did. I don’t know if I’m just changing as a reader but it took away some of the emotional punch for me. It just felt easy and I wanted so much more from it.

Overall, this book was amazing and what I needed and wanted! I love Klune’s way with words and the way he makes you fall head over heels in love with characters. I cannot wait to read what he’s coming out with next. I’m sure it will be one of my most anticipated!