Review of The Floating World by Axie Oh
I was absolutely buzzing with excitement when I cracked open The Floating World, the latest offering from Axie Oh, a beloved author whose previous works, like The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, hold a special place in my heart. As I delved into this fantasy world inspired by the classic Korean fairytale "The Woodcutter and the Celestial Maiden," I hoped to find the same magic that had captivated me before. However, the experience was bittersweet, leaving me with a blend of admiration and lingering disappointment.
At its core, The Floating World introduces us to a divided realm on the brink of war, with vibrant characters like a runaway princess searching for a cure for her uncle and an amnesiac soldier on a quest to find his lost brother. Their destinies intertwine in the heart of an impending conflict, catalyzed by an enigmatic demon encounter. The concept is rich and lively, yet, as I dove deeper into the narrative, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it lacked the depth I craved.
Axie Oh’s writing style, always imaginative and whimsical, was present in full force. Her ability to create striking imagery and culturally rich scenes is commendable. I was particularly intrigued by the idea of "The Floating World," a skyward kingdom poised over a brewing societal turmoil. However, I found that the pacing faltered, leaving much of the story feeling slow and uneventful until the final chapters. It was as if the most impactful revelations were locked away until the end, which dimmed the enchantment of my reading experience.
While I found both Ren and Sunho compelling as individual characters, their romance felt rushed and lacking the organic chemistry that typically flourishes in Oh’s stories. The feeling of "insta-love" overshadowed their development as a couple, creating a disconnect that I wasn’t expecting. Yet, as I reached those last few chapters, the world began to open up with thrilling potential, leaving me eager for what’s next.
Despite my mixed feelings, I can’t help but remain optimistic about the sequel, The Demon and The Light. The groundwork has been laid, and I feel in my bones that the upcoming installment will elevate the story to thrilling heights. It’s a promise of potential, and I’m on board for the ride—Axie Oh remains one of my all-time favorites, and I trust her journey for these characters will deepen in future books.
This book might resonate well with readers who enjoy fantasy layered with cultural nuances and are willing to navigate a little slowness for a promising payoff. For die-hard Axie Oh fans like myself, The Floating World may have its shortcomings, but the magic of her storytelling is enough to keep us coming back for more.
In the end, the experience left me both reflective and hopeful. Reading is an adventure filled with hiccups and surprises, and sometimes, that’s exactly what makes us yearn for the next chapter. I’m eager to see where Oh takes us next!
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