Oh TJ Klune. The writer that you are. I felt so honored to read this as an ARC! This book is heavier than his previous work but god is it so beautiful and thought provoking. I cried many a tear reading this, and the characters and quotes and conversations this book has led me to have with others will stick with me for quite some time. A real masterpiece in writing on death and life and mortality.

I really loved Cerulean Sea by this author but this wasn’t what I was expecting. It was fine and had TJ’s great writing but I couldn’t do it with the grief. I was not in the right headspace for it.

Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune is a touching and emotional story about a man who gets a second chance at life after death. Set in a cozy tea shop for souls, it explores grief, love, and redemption with warmth and gentle humor. I really enjoyed the heart and hope in this story.

TJ Klune's writing is always so lyrical and beautifully worded. I always enjoy the vivid imagery in it. This book is no exception. I normally lean to a plot driven story rather than a character driven one but this one really intrigued me. But I found myself not likely the main character and I think the romance subplot was borderline non-existent as I felt like it wasn't as well executed as the rest of the story. Overall, it was a good read but not one of my favorite Klune reads.

After learning more about this author and his inspiration for The House on the Cerulean Sea, I cannot in good conscience support this author with reviews. My sincere apologies for this.

Accepting that T.J. Klune is not an author for me, I do see why people love his whimsically cozy style of writing but it hasn’t been one that I find particularly engaging. As a character-centered reader, I thought that I would love his works but it’s never what I am looking for when I do start them.

After learning about the authors basis for The House on the Cerulean Sea, I can no longer read or support this author.

This one had me crying. It's a very cathartic read, and one that is in a way welcome after Cerulean Sea's more lighthearted vibe. Under the Whispering Door asks you to lean into the melancholy and the lost opportunities, the grief and loneliness. Highly recommended, but with the caveat that one should be prepared for themes of loss.

TJ KLUNE MY HEART. Each and every book I read that he has written makes me feel so many different emotions and I just can’t cope. This is one of my favourite books of all time and I have literally recommended it to everyone. Even when it did rip my heart out on so many occasions.

This was a good, enjoyable read with plenty to like. The story kept my attention throughout, and the characters, while not the most complex, were engaging and likable. The pacing was steady, and there were a few standout moments that really shone. While it didn’t completely blow me away or do much to break the mold, it was a solid book that I’m glad I picked up.

a classic t j klune warm hug wrapped in a dose of reality and reflection. the perfect fall read. all the staples we love, loveable characters, an engaging environment and warmth

A really good read that draws you in and keeps you plugged in. What a trip it is to read this book. I’ve read a few chapters to students and they love it.

As with T.J Klune’s other work this book was just lovely but also deep. I loved how the story explored death. The characters were all excellent and even though the mc was unlikeable in the beginning he was quite relatable, especially as the story went on. I found this to be such a cosy read and I really enjoyed the setting of being mainly within a tea house. I will definitely read more of T.J Klune’s books as I really enjoyed my time reading this one. Will definitely be recommending it to friends and family. Thanks to NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC which I was able to read and review.

An imaginative tale with exceptional character building, set in a richly crafted and magical world. I'd recommend it for all ages!

Under the Whispering Door was an interesting concept for a story. I enjoyed it, but felt it was still missing something.

I felt the characters weren't as memorable as the plot. I think in the future I'll have to think a lot about what their names are. Wallace I felt was inconsistent. At the start of the book he felt a lot older, but by the end it felt like he was supposed to be younger and I just couldn't mesh the two in my head. I felt he started acting quite juvenile.

I found the setting to be quite cute. I love the idea of a halfway house being a teashop.. The writing was beautiful, and it really made me relate to the story. The plot was so unique and I loved the concept. I did find it quite emotional at times which did cause me to struggle to pick this up at times.

I enjoyed this character journey, going from being a corporate nasty to a more well-rounded human. This is the first book I've read from this author and I will definitely read more!

I tell folks that TJ Klune's stories are like being wrapped in a warm sweater, given a steamy cup of cocoa (full of marshmallows), and cuddling in a comfy chair with a purring kitty in front of a fire. Few authors can make me feel happier or more soothed by the final page, and this one was another absolute charmer. Such a gentle, sweet read overall.

This book was kind of a wild ride but in the best possible way! Under the Whispering Door is a heartwarming and deeply thoughtful story about life, death, and second chances. The novel follows Wallace, a cold-hearted man who dies unexpectedly and finds himself in a tea shop that serves as a waypoint for souls crossing over. With the help of Hugo, the kind and gentle ferryman, Wallace begins to reflect on his life and what it means to truly live. TJ Klune's writing is full of warmth, humor, and compassion. The story tackles heavy themes with a light, gentle touch, making it both comforting and inspiring. It’s a beautiful meditation on love, kindness, and embracing life, even in the face of death. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven stories will find this book moving and memorable. TJ Klune is an auto purchase for me!

This was exactly when I thought it was going to be. So whimsical and came highly recommended. It was heavy at times but very cozy overall. Now I want to read their backlist as well.

When I tell you this book tugged at all the right places on my heartstrings, that would be an understatement. I was hooked from the beginning, following our main character to his early demise on the pages and then learning who exactly he was in his death. I loved all the side characters as well and this book had me in tears by the end. TJ Klune knows how to write a story that makes you feel and think and be happy and sad all at once. Amazing!