Review of The Floating World by Axie Oh
When I first heard about The Floating World, I felt an excited flutter in my chest, fueled by my long-standing admiration for Axie Oh. After being utterly enchanted by The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, I marked this book as one of my top anticipated reads of the year. How could I not? The promise of a new fantasy world, inspired by classic Korean folklore, felt like entrusting a dear friend with my heart once again.
As I delved into the narrative, I found myself navigating a world steeped in war, magic, and romance. The story centers on a runaway princess seeking a cure for her uncle’s illness and an amnesiac soldier on a quest for his lost brother. Their paths intertwine following a fateful encounter with a demon, setting the stage for an adventure that is rich with potential. The world-building is infused with vibrant snippets of Korean culture, and I was captivated by the concept of "The Floating World," a mystical realm suspended above the tumult of war that offers a tantalizing view of both hope and danger.
However, I found myself struggling with the pacing and depth of this story. The beginning felt a bit slow, as if the larger, more explosive elements were being held close to the chest. It wasn’t until the final chapters that I truly connected with the characters and the stakes they faced. While I enjoyed the individual arcs of Ren and Sunho, the romance felt rushed. Their relationship had the hallmarks of an insta-love trope that I found surprising, given Oh’s knack for crafting deep, complex relationships in her previous works.
Oh’s writing style remains enchanting; her ability to create vivid imagery and whimsical prose emerged as a significant highlight. Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this installment lacked some of the magic that made The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea so special. Perhaps it was the absence of heart in the slower middle sections that left me feeling somewhat unfulfilled. I wanted more chemistry between the leads and a deeper exploration of their emotions.
Even with these critiques weighing on my mind, I felt drawn back into the world towards the end. The closing chapters offered a riveting glimpse into what lies ahead, stirring excitement for the sequel, The Demon and The Light. It seems poised to address some of the pacing issues and character development that left me wanting in this first installment.
In conclusion, The Floating World may not have been the all-encompassing experience I had hoped for, but it’s clear that there is a solid foundation for an engaging series. I would recommend this book to fans of Axie Oh and newcomers alike, particularly those who love whimsical fantasy infused with cultural richness. While it may not have completely captured my heart this time, I can feel the potential lurking within, and I’m eager to see where this journey leads us next.
Thank you, Axie, for your creativity and bravery in storytelling—I’m still a devoted fan and look forward to more adventures in the Floating World!
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