The Azathoth Cycle: Tales of the Blind Idiot God : Book Review

"The Azathoth Cycle" by Robert M. Price is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the terrifying cosmic horror found within H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. The book centers around the enigmatic and mindless god, Azathoth, who resides at the very center of the universe.

Price expertly compiles a diverse collection of stories and essays that revolve around the theme of Azathoth. Through Lovecraft's original writings and the contributions of other authors, Price offers readers a deep and immersive understanding of the mythology surrounding this mysterious deity. The anthology features both well-known tales and hidden gems, providing a fresh and engaging reading experience for fans of Lovecraft's mythos.

One of the book's notable strengths is Price's insightful commentary. He provides valuable context and analysis, shedding light on Lovecraft's influences and the significance of Azathoth within the broader Mythos. Price's scholarly approach adds depth and authenticity to the collection, making it a must-read for both Lovecraft enthusiasts and those seeking to grasp the underlying themes of cosmic horror.

"The Azathoth Cycle" offers a diverse range of writing styles and perspectives. From chilling tales of cosmic dread to philosophical musings on the nature of existence, readers will find a captivating array of narratives to explore. These stories not only entertain, but also delve into profound questions regarding humanity's insignificance when faced with vast cosmic forces.

Overall, "The Azathoth Cycle" is a masterfully curated collection that provides a comprehensive and engrossing exploration of one of Lovecraft's most intriguing creations. With Price's insightful commentary and a diverse array of stories, this book is essential reading for anyone eager to delve deeper into the cosmic horrors of the Cthulhu Mythos.

What are readers saying?

The Azathoth Cycle by Robert M. Price has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Some reviewers praised the book for its intriguing interpretation of Lovecraftian horror and its contributions to the Cthulhu Mythos. They commended Price's extensive knowledge and deep understanding of H.P. Lovecraft's works, which were evident in the stories. Readers found the tales to be dark, unsettling, and faithful to the spirit of Lovecraft's cosmic horror. Furthermore, they appreciated the inclusion of a diverse range of authors, which offered a fresh perspective on the mythos.

On the other hand, a number of reviewers expressed disappointment with the book, feeling that the stories lacked cohesiveness and seemed disjointed. The narrative thread was difficult to follow, and some felt that the stories didn't reach their full potential. Some readers also found Price's writing style to be convoluted at times, hindering their immersion in the stories.

Additionally, a few reviewers mentioned that prior familiarity with Lovecraft's works was necessary to fully appreciate and understand The Azathoth Cycle. They believed that Price's in-depth knowledge might make the book less accessible to readers new to the mythos.

It is worth noting that some readers praised Price's introduction and commentary throughout the book. They found these sections to be insightful and enriching, offering a deeper understanding of the stories and their connection to Lovecraft's mythos. However, others found the commentary excessive and distracting, taking away from the actual stories.

Overall, Robert M. Price's The Azathoth Cycle has received a mixed response from readers, with some appreciating its unique approach to Lovecraftian horror, while others were let down by the lack of cohesion in the storytelling.

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