Like many readers, I first became aware of TJ Klune through his novel The House in the Cerulean Sea. That book, and its equally fantastic follow-up, showcased Klune’s ability to explore imaginative fantasy worlds through grounded characters, all while thoughtfully examining themes of found family and the persecution of the LGBTQ+ community. He has a gift for balancing heavy subject matter with warmth, humor, and heart. I became an instant fan. So when I had the opportunity to read his newest release, the adult novel We Burned So Bright, I knew I was in for something special.
What would you do if you knew it was the end of the world?
Don and Rodney have spent the last forty years building a life together—devoted partners who have grown old side by side, even marrying once it finally became legal. They always imagined a future together, but not one that ends like this.
A black hole is tearing through the solar system, swallowing planets in its path and heading straight for Earth. There’s no stopping it. No escaping it. The end is certain.
With that reality looming, Don and Rodney leave the comfort of their home in Maine and set out on a final journey west. There’s one last promise they need to keep before everything is gone.
As they cross the country, they encounter others grappling with the end in their own ways—some with compassion and grace, others with fear and cruelty. But no matter what they face along the way, Don and Rodney remain determined to reach their destination before time runs out.
We Burned So Bright sees TJ Klune step away from his more fantastical storytelling in favor of something quieter and more introspective. Here, he explores the depths of humanity—how we connect, the impact we have on one another, and the choices we make when faced with the inevitable.
At first, I was a bit taken aback by just how inward-looking the novel is. Plot-wise, not much happens, but the emotional journey is where the story truly unfolds. This is a novel rooted in reflection, one that asks readers to consider our place in the world and the legacy we leave behind. More than anything, it highlights the enduring power of commitment, community, and the shared experience of navigating life’s highs and lows. There are moments where Klune’s message leans a bit too overt, but for the most part, its sincerity carries through. It’s a contemplative, quietly powerful story that will leave you in deep reflection even after you finish reading.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2026, 34)
"This is a novel rooted in reflection, one that asks readers to consider our place in the world and the legacy we leave behind."
ReplyDeleteI don't think I can read books where the characters are doomed from the start, but the message here might be worth the (literal) journey...
While the event itself it quite dark and tragic, the story is really more about finding some kind of hope within that. I think he was a bit heavy handed with the message, but I appreciated the point he was trying to get across.
DeleteHmm...this does sound different from his other books. But sometimes quieter, more thoughtful books are just what you want.
ReplyDeleteVery different from his YA stuff. I'm still undecided if that's a good different!
DeleteGreat review! It sounds really good. I've been seeing a lot about this book lately and am excited for it.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get the opportunity to read it at some point!
DeleteI think if everyone knew the end was coming, people would be freaking out because they'd have nothing to lose and it would be too dangerous to be out taking a journey anywhere.
ReplyDeleteThere's definitely an aspect of that in this book.
DeleteInteresting. I do have The House in the Cerulean Sea in my audio TBR pile as I have been meaning to try this author. Great review Ethan!
ReplyDeleteThat one was my intro to his writing, and I highly recommend both it and its sequel!
DeleteI do want to try Klune again, I tried audio, but I need to go the other way
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading this one.
DeleteI am ok for plotless stories as long as we take some kind of journey (personal) together and I feel something.
ReplyDeleteThat's very much the point of this one. It's all about the emotional journey.
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