The Hidden Children (eBook)

Robert William Chambers (1865–1933) was an American author best known for his work in the fantasy and horror genres, though his writing career spanned a variety of other genres as well. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Chambers began his artistic career studying at the Art Students' League of New York and later attended the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He initially started out as a commercial artist and illustrator but soon found his true calling in writing. Chambers garnered significant recognition with the publication of 'The King in Yellow' (1895), a collection of short stories that interweaved elements of supernatural fiction and mythology, which subsequently influenced renowned writers such as H.P. Lovecraft. Despite the success and cult following of 'The King in Yellow', Chambers did not confine himself to one style, demonstrating versatility by writing romance novels, historical fiction, and social satire. Amongst his varied oeuvre, 'The Hidden Children' (1914) stands out as a significant work; it encapsulates Chambers' foray into historical fiction, shedding light on the French and Indian War and the struggles for colonial power. This novel, like much of Chambers' work, is characterized by his rich narrative style and a strong sense of place and period. Chambers' prolific output includes over 70 novels and numerous short story collections, which showcase his ability to traverse literary styles and genres. Despite the diversity in his work, he is persistently remembered for his contributions to early American horror and supernatural fiction. His literary legacy endures, as modern readers and scholars continue to examine his influence on 20th-century genre fiction.