The Black Orb

Debut author Kim explores the existential horror of isolation in this chilling and enigmatic apocalyptic novel. Jeong-su, a rising young office manager, is the first to encounter the mysterious, floating black orbs that relentlessly absorb his fellow Seoul citizens. As residents flee in a panic, Jeong-su tries to connect with friends and family while evading army patrols, religious cultists, bands of looters, and the ever-rising tide of black orbs. Eventually, trapped in an abandoned store, he and a fellow refugee question all that society has taught them—including the value of conformity and toxic masculinity—as they struggle to avoid being pulled into the void by the voracious orbs. Kim’s universe is uncaring and unsparing, whether it’s the orbs or fellow humans who are administering the harsh lessons. The key to survival is to find someone with whom to share and divide the pain, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak world. This is sure to win Kim fans. Agent: Barbara Zitwer, Barbara J. Zitwer Agency. (Feb.)