King, Queen, Knave
“King, Queen, Knave” by Vladimir Nabokov, published by Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group on July 17, 1989, is a novel that explores a complex love triangle involving a wealthy clothing store owner, his cold wife, and their myopic nephew. This first edition spans 288 pages and is presented in English. The narrative delves into themes of desire and betrayal, showcasing Nabokov’s distinctive style that combines elements of satire and psychological insight.
Readers will find a richly woven tale where the characters’ motivations and relationships lead to darkly comedic and macabre situations. The story centers on Dreyer, whose obliviousness to his wife’s discontent sets off a chain of events that culminates in a plot to murder. As the dynamics between Dreyer, Martha, and Franz unfold, the novel offers a unique perspective on love and manipulation, reflecting Nabokov’s literary prowess.
Official synopsis Publisher
A love triangle, where two of the members attempt to murder the third. • King, Queen, Knave, like all Nabokov’s writing, bears the unmistakable stamp of his genius – brilliant, erotic, deliciously macabre, and wholly unique.
“Fascinating…audacious and delightful.” – The New York Times
The novel is the story of Dreyer, a wealthy and boisterous proprietor of a men’s clothing emporium store. Ruddy, self-satisfied, and thoroughly masculine, he is perfectly repugnant to his exquisite but cold middle-class wife Martha. Attracted to his money but repelled by his oblivious passion, she longs for their nephew instead, the myopic Franz. Newly arrived in Berlin, Franz soon repays his uncle’s condescension in his aunt’s bed.
“A simply overflowing sense of life.” – Life Magazine
“A treat, a feast, the splendid work of a conscious and gifted artist.” – Book Week
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “King, Queen, Knave” about?
Who is the author of “King, Queen, Knave”?
When was “King, Queen, Knave” published?
What is the ISBN for “King, Queen, Knave”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
