Cover of A Search for the King

A Search for the King

a 12th century legend.

  • 1950 first published
  • 196 pages
  • 12 editions

A Search for the King is a 1950 gay fiction and queer fantasy novel by Gore Vidal. The story is set in England, in the 12th century. It features Richard I King of England (1157-1199), Blondel de Nesle (12th cent) and Blondel de Nesle (12th century). Readers will find themes of gay men, gay authors and crusades.

It has been published in 12 editions.

It runs to roughly 196 pages — 3–4 hours of reading at an average pace.

Themes, setting & tropes

Genres

Setting

Era

Characters

  • Richard I King of England (1157-1199)
  • Blondel de Nesle (12th cent)
  • Blondel de Nesle (12th century)
  • Blondel e Nesle (12th cent)

Subjects

  • Gay men
  • Gay authors
  • Crusades
  • Historical fantasy

Quick answers

Who wrote A Search for the King?

A Search for the King was written by Gore Vidal and first published in 1950.

What genre is A Search for the King?

It is usually shelved as Gay Fiction, Queer Fantasy and Historical Fantasy.

How long is A Search for the King?

The median edition has 196 pages, about 3–4 hours of reading at 250 words per minute.

What books are similar to A Search for the King?

Readers who like it often enjoy A Marvellous Light, The Picture of Dorian Gray and Orlando.

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