The Return of the King

by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Return of the King cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Fantasy
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Format • £19.00–£33.25
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Technical
  • ID: 1373
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-17
  • ISBN: 9780007269723
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2008-01-01
  • Formats: 40
  • Reviews: 4

The Return of the King is the final installment in J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings. This illustrated paperback edition features 15 vibrant color paintings by Alan Lee, who also served as the conceptual designer for Peter Jackson's film adaptation of The Hobbit. The story follows the disparate journeys of the Companions of the Ring as they converge in a desperate battle against the Dark Lord Sauron. Aragorn, the hidden heir to the throne of Gondor, joins forces with the Riders of Rohan to defend the Hornburg, while Merry and Pippin encounter the ancient Ents in Fangorn Forest. Gandalf returns, more powerful than ever, to defeat the traitorous Saruman. Meanwhile, Sam and Frodo continue their perilous journey to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring, guided and hindered by the treacherous Gollum. The narrative weaves together moments of humor, heroism, and horror, creating a richly detailed and immersive world that has captivated readers for generations. /n/n This edition of The Return of the King is a must-have for both new and longtime fans of Tolkien's work. The illustrations by Alan Lee bring the epic tale to life, offering a fresh perspective on the classic story. The book is a testament to Tolkien's unparalleled world-building and storytelling, making it a cornerstone of the fantasy genre. Whether you're a seasoned reader or a newcomer to Middle-earth, this illustrated edition is an essential addition to your collection.

Reviews
DustyReviews.com · 2025-06-11
brilliant 4.00

The audiobook performance by Rob Inglis is highly recommended, bringing the story to life in a way that feels authentic. The reviewer appreciates the immersive experience it provides.

This review focuses on the audiobook version of The Return of the King, praising Rob Inglis' performance. They find his reading to be the next best thing to having Tolkien himself narrate the story. The reviewer highlights the immersive experience that the audiobook offers, making it a delightful way to enjoy the book. They appreciate the attention to detail and the emotional depth that Inglis brings to the characters, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    I highly recommend the Rob Inglis' audiobook performance.

    To me, his reading of the story feels like the next best thing to having Tolkien read it.

    The audiobook performance is a delightful way to enjoy the book.

Barbara Lee Harper · Barbara Lee Harper · 2025-04-08
profound 4.25

The book is seen as a profound exploration of truth through myth and fairy stories, with a deep appreciation for Tolkien's storytelling.

Barbara Lee Harper delves into Tolkien's dislike for allegory and his belief in the power of myths and fairy stories to convey truth. She appreciates the depth and complexity of the narrative, noting how Tolkien's world-building and character development create a rich and immersive experience. Harper also highlights the emotional and thematic resonance of the story, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    Tolkien said he disliked allegory and didn't write his saga of the rings that way.

    But he did feel fairy stories and myths could convey truth.

    The depth and complexity of the narrative create a rich and immersive experience.

Oz Booksnail · 2023-03-13
fantastic 4.75

This book is considered the best in the trilogy due to its high action content and satisfying conclusion.

The reviewer believes this is the strongest book in the trilogy, primarily because of its high level of action and the satisfying resolution it provides. They appreciate the way the story culminates in this final installment, making it a standout in the series. The reviewer also highlights the emotional depth and the way the characters' arcs come to a fulfilling close.

Quick quotes

    The Return of the King is by far the best book out of the three.

    There is so much action in this one, as compared to the other books.

    The story culminates in this final installment in a way that feels complete and satisfying.

Novel Notions · 2020-08-28
excellent 4.50

The book is celebrated as a classic and a wonderful conclusion to Tolkien's legendary series, highlighting its importance and timeless appeal.

The reviewer holds this book in high regard, praising it as a classic and a fitting conclusion to the series. They emphasize the importance of Tolkien's work and the book's ability to captivate readers with its epic narrative. The reviewer also notes the depth of the story and its enduring impact on literature.

Quick quotes

    The Return of the King is a classic and wonderful conclusion to Tolkien's legendary series.

    I will not deny the importance of Tolkien and this book.

    It's a testament to Tolkien's skill as a storyteller.

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