The Floating World

Book 1 of The Floating World Series by Axie Oh

AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! From the New York Times–bestselling author of The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, The Floating World is a dazzling romantic fantasy that reimagines a classic Korean legend with the epic scope of Final Fantasy and the dark mystique of Shadow and Bone.

Book Synopsis

In the shadowy Under World—a realm of perpetual darkness—Sunho, an enigmatic ex-soldier, wakes with nothing more than his name and a trusty sword. Forced into a life of odd jobs, his fortunes change when he’s offered a bounty: a chest of coins for any mercenary who can hunt down a mysterious girl who wields silver light. Meanwhile, far to the east, Ren, a charismatic and spirited acrobat from a traveling troupe, performs at village festivals with her adoptive family. During one fateful performance, a horrific, humanlike demon attacks her village. In a burst of raw fear and power, Ren unleashes a dazzling blast of silver light—an ability she’s concealed since childhood—which tragically fails to save her loved ones. Determined to rescue her grievously wounded uncle and uncover the secrets of her own past, Ren embarks on a perilous journey over treacherous mountains, unknowingly setting her on a collision course with Sunho. As their lives intertwine on a path of danger, destiny, and self-discovery, they soon learn that the light they each possess may be the key to transcending a fate written in shadow.

Key Features & Themes

• Myth & Magic: A masterful blend of Korean folklore reimagined with modern fantasy elements.
• Epic Worldbuilding: Explore dual realms—from the oppressive, gritty Under World to the radiant, mystical Floating World—richly rendered through immersive detail.
• Complex Characters: Follow Sunho’s struggle to reclaim lost memories and come to terms with his inner darkness, while Ren’s journey challenges her to harness a dangerous power in order to save those she loves.
• Themes of Destiny & Identity: Delve into a narrative steeped in mythological symbolism, where the battle between light and darkness mirrors the characters’ fight for self-determination.
• Heart & Humor: A story that artfully balances adrenaline-fueled adventure, tender romance, and moments of lighthearted levity.

Praise

"The Floating World has everything I love in a fantasy story: a grand adventure that perfectly balances romance and humor, set in a uniquely magical world. I laughed and cried alongside Ren and Sunho on their journey to self-discovery. An enthralling read to the very last page." – Judy I. Lin, #1 New York Times bestselling author of A Magic Steeped in Poison

"Axie Oh has crafted an exquisite tale filled with mythology, heart, romance, and magic. The secrets, intrigue, and beautiful prose swept me away, and I’m already excited for the sequel!" – Sue Lynn Tan, New York Times bestselling author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess

Product Details

• Series: The Floating World Series, Book 1
• Page Count: 368 pages
• Genre: Young Adult, Romantic Fantasy
• Age Range: 13–18 years
• Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
• Publication Date: April 29, 2025
• Format: Hardcover, eBook
• ISBN: 9781250853080
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 1.34 x 9.29 inches

About the Author

Axie Oh is a New York Times bestselling author known for reimagining Korean legends with vivid worldbuilding and unforgettable characters. With prior successes like The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, her work has captivated readers with its blend of myth, magic, emotion, and humor. Passionate about K-pop, folklore, and epic tales of destiny, Axie Oh continues to enchant audiences with her richly imagined universes.

Also by Axie Oh: The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea | The Demon and the Light