Under the Whispering Door
From TJ Klune, USA Today bestselling author of The House in the Cerulean Sea, comes Under the Whispering Door, a new contemporary fantasy about a ghost who refuses to cross over and the ferryman he falls in love with.
When a reaper comes to collect Wallace Price from his own funeral, Wallace suspects he really might be dead.
Instead of leading him directly to the afterlife, the reaper takes him to a small village. On the outskirts, off the path through the woods, tucked between mountains, is a particular tea shop, run by a man named Hugo. Hugo is the tea shop's owner to locals and the ferryman to souls who need to cross over.
But Wallace isn’t ready to abandon the life he barely lived. With Hugo’s help he finally starts to learn about all the things he missed in life.
When the Manager, a curious and powerful being, arrives at the tea shop and gives Wallace one week to cross over, Wallace sets about living a lifetime in seven days.
By turns heartwarming and heartbreaking, this absorbing tale of grief and hope is told with TJ Klune's signature warmth, humor, and extraordinary empathy.
TJ Klune
TJ Klune doesn’t just write stories—he creates worlds where love is limitless, found in the most unexpected places, and fiercely protected. Known for his whimsical yet heartfelt storytelling, Klune’s books span genres with a refreshing blend of fantasy, humor, and raw emotion. Whether he's crafting fantastical creatures, exploring personal identity, or diving into the depths of human connection, his work resonates with readers who crave both joy and depth.
Born in the Pacific Northwest, Klune grew up surrounded by nature, often drawing inspiration from the rugged landscapes and the quieter moments that accompanied them. His early love for reading and storytelling grew from his experiences in a small town, where the richness of imagination was often the gateway to an escape. From there, his path as a writer was forged, shaped by a passion for creating stories where characters could break free from the constraints of reality and embrace who they truly are.