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The King in Yellow

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The King in Yellow

Written by: Robert W. Chambers
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki, Gabrielle de Cuir
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About this listen

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.
Anthologies & Short Stories Classics Fantasy Fiction Science Fiction Scary Emotionally Gripping
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What listeners say about The King in Yellow

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Weird but worth it

This early attempt at supernatural fiction is said to have inspired H.P. Lovecraft and many others. The book is about a book that is so shrouded in mystery that to read the play within it will cause you to spiral into madness. The tale follows those who read the play, and the many lives they lead. If it wasn’t for Stefan Rudnicki (accompanied by Gabrielle deCuir), I’d never have sat down to read this: it’s a meandering mess, but thanks to Audible, I was able to persevere and see this odd tale through. Creative but confusing, although shockingly not outdated for an 1895 novel predicting what 1930 would be like.

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Not what I'd thought it'd be

It's a little overhyped. Starts with a spooky idea then abandons it half way through for romance stories.

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Mix of Great and Okay Short Stories

The narration in this audiobook is great! I wish this book were called “The King in Yellow, and other Short Stories” as some of these stories do not add to the King in Yellow narrative at all. All of the stories involving the King in Yellow narrative (mostly in the first half) are well written and engaging. The other stories also are engaging, but some of them just don’t go anywhere or have so much in common with other stories in this book that they get boring. Overall a interesting collection of stories.

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Predates Lovecraft, Unique Experience

Context is king when trying to embrace the impeccable quality of this book with superior narration. It predates Lovecraft and inspired him, so do not go in expecting a "Lovecraftian" experience. Enter with a clear mind and you will understand why this book inspired cosmic horror writers, lest the black stars rise.
Chambers was more than a simple horror writer, and those who say the later, more romantic stories do not have an impact as the earlier ones, miss the larger picture.

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Incredible

I went in expecting a Lovecraftian type experience though it wasn’t exactly what I was looking for I still found the stories interesting and I could never tell what would happen next I can definitely see how Robert W. Chambers inspired Lovecraft’s works.

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