The Forbidden

by Clive Barker
The Forbidden cover
Good Books rating 4.19
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  • ID: 5529
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-29
compelling 3.50

The story is praised for its compelling and enjoyable narrative. The reviewer notes that it is difficult not to compare it to the movie, which is more well-known.

The reviewer on Goodreads finds 'The Forbidden' to be a compelling and enjoyable short story. They note that while the story stands on its own merits, it is challenging not to draw comparisons to the more famous film adaptation. The reviewer appreciates the story's narrative strength and its ability to captivate the reader. They also mention that the story's horror elements are well-executed, creating a tense and atmospheric narrative that is both engaging and chilling.

Quick quotes

    Trying to review it on its own merit, I would say it's a compelling and enjoyable short story.

    It's difficult not to compare it to the movie, which is more well-known.

    The story's narrative strength and ability to captivate the reader are particularly noteworthy.

Clive Barker Archive · 2021-09-05
enduring 4.75

The story is a significant piece of horror literature that has been adapted into a successful film franchise. The reviewer acknowledges its enduring appeal and impact on the genre.

This review from the Clive Barker Archive emphasizes the enduring appeal of 'The Forbidden'. They note that the story's adaptation into the 'Candyman' film franchise is a testament to its lasting impact. The reviewer appreciates how the narrative effectively taps into societal fears and urban legends, making it a compelling read. They also highlight the story's influence on horror literature and its ability to resonate with audiences over time. The reviewer concludes that 'The Forbidden' is a must-read for fans of horror, showcasing Barker's talent for creating stories that transcend their original medium.

Quick quotes

    The best tales get told again and again, and Clive's short story, The Forbidden, filmed as Candyman and its movie sequels, falls squarely in this category.

    The narrative effectively taps into societal fears and urban legends, making it a compelling read.

    The story's influence on horror literature and its ability to resonate with audiences over time.

Bloody Disgusting · 2021-09-01
unsettling 4.00

The story is unsettling and fluently written, making it a good choice for those seeking a scare. The narrative is engaging and well-crafted, showcasing Barker's talent for horror.

This review highlights that 'The Forbidden' is a gripping horror story that effectively delivers chills. The reviewer appreciates the fluidity of the writing, which enhances the overall reading experience. They note that the story is a strong example of Barker's ability to create unsettling and engaging narratives. The setting and atmosphere are particularly praised for their ability to immerse the reader in a world of urban myths and dread. The reviewer concludes that this short story is a must-read for horror enthusiasts looking for a well-crafted and intense experience.

Quick quotes

    After all, it is still an unsettling horror story for those who just want a good scare and it is very fluently written.

    Speaking of which, the story is a testament to Barker's knack for creating atmospheric and chilling tales.

    The narrative is engaging and well-crafted, showcasing Barker's talent for horror.

Easily Distracted · Jay Rothermel · 2020-07-09
memorable 4.50

The story is a concrete example of cloacal horror, delving into themes of urban legends and societal taboos. The reviewer finds it to be a memorable and impactful piece of horror fiction.

In this review, Jay Rothermel discusses 'The Forbidden' as a notable example of cloacal horror, a subgenre that explores themes of bodily functions and societal taboos. They appreciate how the story effectively uses urban legends to create a sense of dread and unease. The reviewer finds the narrative to be compelling and well-executed, highlighting Barker's ability to tackle disturbing subjects with skill. They also note that the story's setting in a high-rise council estate adds to its atmospheric quality, making it a memorable read for those interested in horror that delves into the darker aspects of human nature.

Quick quotes

    This story is the most concrete example of what critic John Clute terms cloacal horror that I have read.

    The narrative is compelling and well-executed, showcasing Barker's ability to tackle disturbing subjects with skill.

    The story's setting in a high-rise council estate adds to its atmospheric quality.

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