Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

Review written by our guest reviewer Bonnie Cordell

Returning to Marsyas Island and reuniting with the orphanage of magical children under Arthur Parnassus’s care feels like coming home. In Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune, we find ourselves once again amidst a world where magic and family blend seamlessly. This time, the arrival of a new child, a young yeti named David, brings fresh excitement as he joins the other magical children in their joyful routines of school, chores, and imaginative adventures. However, their idyllic life is soon threatened by a new leader at DICOMY (the Department in Charge of Magical Youth), who has sinister plans to seize the children’s magic for her own power. With the help of the powerful island sprite, Zoe Chapelwaite, Arthur, Linus, and the children must unite to defend their home and family from these looming dangers.

Days on Marsyas Island are filled with warmth and wonder as Arthur’s children create a world where magic and love are woven into daily life. But as DICOMY’s influence grows under its new leadership, the stakes are raised, forcing the islanders to fight for what they hold dear. The children’s joy, infectious personalities, and strong family bonds bring this story to life. As they face challenges together, Arthur and Linus’s devotion to the children and the lengths they go to protect each other are both inspiring and heartwarming. Klune’s narrative highlights how family is defined not by blood but by love and loyalty, showing that even in the face of darkness, unity can be the strongest form of magic.

Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a feel-good story that lightens the heart, delivering both adventure and warmth as Arthur, Linus, and the children fight to keep their family intact. Their support and love for one another are inspiring, making you root for them every step of the way as they face the mounting threats from DICOMY. TJ Klune’s endearing characters and uplifting message celebrate the magic of love and unity, inviting readers into a world that is as enchanting as it is heartfelt. This story’s joy and resilience leave you with a powerful reminder of the bonds that hold us together, and it’s a journey worth taking.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Publishing for the eARC and the opportunity to continue this series!