A review by paperpaladin
The King in Yellow by Robert W. Chambers

dark mysterious tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

The King in Yellow is a collection of short stories that are reference by and inspired H.P. Lovecraft. Knowing this, I thought it would be interesting to see the roots of cosmic horror. The King in Yellow is a play within the text, that if you read the second act you will be driven mad. What this fully means is not ever co.pletwly clear but that isn't exactly the point. These stories show different ways that the characters have come to read this story and what it means for them and their lives. And while this is an interesting premise, I found the execution to be dull. It is old horror which means it reads very different from modern horror in every way. It is similar to Frankenstein where the horror is just different. Unlike Frankenstien I don't think this collection is able to stand up to the test of time.

If you are really interested in the roots of cosmic horror, it may be worth your time. Otherwise I recommend passing on this collection.

There is also multiple stories about artists in Paris that have nothing to do with the King in Yellow or horror in general which I found even more tedious to get through than the rest.

My rating system
1 - Did not enjoy
2 - Not irredeemable but has too many flaws to say I enjoyed
3 - Enjoyed it
4 - Great book but didn't love it
5 - Amazing book