book cover of Fathomfolk
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Fathomfolk

(2024)
(The first book in the Drowned World series)
A novel by

 
 
AN INTERNATIONAL #1 BESTSELLER

This gloriously imaginative debut fantasy, inspired by East Asian mythology and ocean folk tales, is a novel of magic, rebellion and change.


"An unforgettable, must-read fantasy,"--Shelley Parker-Chan

Welcome to Tiankawi - shining pearl of human civilization and a safe haven for those fleeing civil unrest. Or at least, that's how it first appears. But in the semi-flooded city, humans are, quite literally, on top: peering down from shining towers and aerial walkways on the fathomfolk - sirens, seawitches, kelpies and kappas - who live in the polluted waters below.

For half-siren Mira, promotion to captain of the border guard means an opportunity to help her downtrodden people. But if earning the trust and respect of her human colleagues wasn't hard enough, everything Mira has worked towards is put in jeopardy when Nami, a know-it-all water dragon and fathomfolk princess - is exiled to the city, under Mira’s watch. When extremists sabotage a city festival, violence erupts, as does the clampdown on fathomfolk rights. Both Nami and Mira must decide if the cost of change is worth paying, or if Tiankawi should be left to drown.

Genre: Fantasy

Praise for this book

"Fathomfolk is a compelling tale about cultures colliding, set against a city backdrop that feels familiar yet fresh. Eliza Chan deftly and compassionately writes about the depths we'll plunge to, to change our world." - G V Anderson

"A vivid, textured tale of migration, prejudice and change. Wonderful and breathtaking." - Aliette de Bodard

"A richly envisioned world and finely crafted tale, Fathomfolk is a luxurious and thrilling story full of political intrigue, heart-wrenching characters and edge-of-your seat tension. A glittering and magical novel from a glorious new voice in fantasy." - Bea Fitzgerald

"From the glittering city heights to the criminal underbelly on the seafloor, the world of Fathomfolk feels deeply plausible and satisfyingly complex. If you want scheming sirens and snarky sea dragons then this is the book for you." - Thomas D Lee

"Fathomfolk bursts with complex relationships, original world building, and timeless questions. With the confidence and command of a seasoned master, Chan weaves a riveting tale which seized me from the first word and did not let go until the end. A triumph of imagination, birthed from the mind of one who loves stories and knows how to tell them well." - Tobi Ogundiran

"A thrilling, incisive fantasy of diaspora and dragons, Fathomfolk is an unmissable debut. If you're hungry for a beautiful Southeast Asian influenced fantasy with razor-sharp edges, this book is for you." - Tasha Suri


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