The King in Yellow

By: Robert W. Chambers

Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki, Gabrielle de Cuir

Originally published in 1895, Robert W. Chambers' The King in Yellow is a marvel of supernatural fiction that has influenced a number of writers in the genre, most notably H. P. Lovecraft. Its powerful combination of horror and lyrical prose has made it a classic, a masterpiece of weird fiction that endures to this day.

There is a book that is shrouded in mystery. Some even say it's a myth. Within its pages is a play - one that brings madness and despair to all who read it. It is the play of the King in Yellow, and it will haunt you for the rest of your days.

The King in Yellow is a collection of stories interwoven loosely by the elements of the play, including the central figure himself.

Public Domain (P)2014 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Evocative stories of strange lands, namely Paris.

Interesting ideas, solid writing, great performances. The thematic link between the short stories can at times feel repetitive, but the dark tone and flowery love are mixed well.

Yeah, pretty much is what it is

Not a stand alone “fun” read but contextually interesting. Kicks off with both the best story and the most off-putting “woof - that seems bad even for back then” unnecessary details, only to kind of wind out in what seems pretty haphazard impressionistic stuff. Lot of paint thinner went into this. That’s not a criticism just more interested in the context than the prose. Probably not fair to listen to the audio and lack much French but also not sure I’d feel great putting in that much work for some (admittedly brilliant to read at times) head scratching. A must-have hard copy for the insufferably eccentric.

Sci-fi begging romantic end?

The first stories of the book are of semi Sci fi, alternate reality, macabre nature that is very exciting and leaves you wanting more literally.

after the first few stories which I would listen to again and again. The novel turns to 1900 American in Paris loves story which are nice but not the same.

Good but strange

This book was mentioned in another book I was reading. The creep factor of going mad from reading the book is what brought me to it and it really delivers on pure creep.

Memorable

A classic . Beautifully wrote . The performance was spot on … listen to the first 2 short stories … if you like them read on if not refund . Easy peasy.

One of the Most Memorable books ive read

excellent Book . I am fond of the short story style that this book follows. The tone of the Narrator fits this book perfectly. I find myself thinking of this book in depth and for a lack of better words obssesing over this book, and i find that funny considering that "The King In Yellow" is a play/story that sort of corrupts the mind of the reader.Overall Book 20/10. If i find myself unoccupied with another book maybe i shall come back for a second reading.

Great narration by the audiobook performer.

The narration of this book was excellent the performer was spot on with his characterizations language change ups and has a compelling interesting voice to listen to.

However the story itself, clearly is a very mild, slightly disturbing story that really never goes anywhere.

In 1895 it might have offended some sensibilities and shocked people with its descriptions, but to a modern set of sensibilities it is pretty banal.

Great read.

Robert W. Chambers was a huge influence to one of my favorite Authors. Very glad I read this. Twisted and beautiful.

Amazing.

This book was so well written it puts many curriculum books to shame. The use of foreshadowing and allusion were outstanding. I fell asleep listening to this and had extremely vivid dreams. I highly recommend listening to this work of art.

Underrated

I feel strongly that this work is underrated by most. The latter stories are less strange in comparison to the earlier parts, however, the tone is so romantic and estranged that one can't help but link the ideas backward through the collection. It's as if the stories grow less strange as it progresses, which might make one think they work in reverse chronology.

On the whole I'd say this is a profoundly thoughtful and intentional collection worth exploration and re-exploration.