Book Review: The Bones Beneath My Skin by TJ Klune

A heartfelt, funny, and deeply emotional story of found family. The Bones Beneath My Skin by TJ Klune will break you, heal you, and stay with you long after it’s over.

What if the family you needed wasn’t the one you were born into? The Bones Beneath My Skin by TJ Klune is a heartfelt story about love, loss, and the kind of connections that change everything. Set in 1995, Nate’s world is turned upside down when he meets a mysterious child and her protective guardian. With Klune’s signature blend of humor, heartache, and hope, you’ll laugh, cry, and believe in the power of chosen family. Learn more about the plot and find out why I gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

TJ Klune Talks New Novel ‘The Bones Beneath My Skin’ (Exclusive)

What is the book about?

In the spring of 1995, Nate Cartwright has lost everything: his parents are dead, his older brother wants nothing to do with him, and he’s been fired from his job as a journalist in Washington DC. With nothing left to lose, he returns to his family’s summer cabin outside the small mountain town of Roseland, Oregon to try and find some sense of direction. The cabin should be empty. It’s not. Inside is a man named Alex. And with him is an extraordinary little girl who calls herself Artemis Darth Vader. Artemis, who isn’t exactly as she appears.

Soon it becomes clear that Nate must make a choice: let himself drown in the memories of his past, or fight for a future he never thought possible. Because the girl is special. And forces are descending upon them who want nothing more than to control her. [Goodreads.com]

My thoughts

Once again, TJ Klune delivers a beautiful story that I couldn’t put down. He could write a grocery list and I’d still find it poetic. The Bones Beneath My Skin is one of those books that sneaks up on you, wraps itself around you, and refuses to let go.

Set in 1995, the story follows Nate, a man at rock bottom who’s just trying to make it through the day. Enter Alex and Artemis Darth Vader (yes, that’s really her name). Suddenly, Nate’s life is turned upside down in the most extraordinary way. What follows is a story of finding hope, healing, and love in the most unexpected places.

This is a story about chosen family—about finding your people, the ones who see you, who love you for who you are, and who make your world bigger and brighter just by being in it.

You’ll laugh… you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat during the more intense moments. And if you have even a sliver of a heart, you’ll cry. There are scenes that will shatter you to pieces. But there are others that will fill you with so much joy you’ll feel like you might burst.

I can’t recommend The Bones Beneath My Skin enough. It’s heartfelt, raw, and unforgettable. TJ Klune has once again reminded me why I’ll read anything and everything he writes.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for the advanced reader’s copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.