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A review by annagerman
Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I'm really conflicted about this book.
First of all, it just wasn't what I expected. I thought this would be an in-depth exploration of a single relationship, but it dealt in fact with an ensemble of characters, all connected, some of them getting their own POVs. Some of the POVs were really good (Eleonor - although it almost felt like an entirely different book with its own writing style), some of them were fine (Zoe and Andres), and some felt like an unnecessary short story (Santiago). And some were criminally undertreated (justice for Quentin!)
Because of this divide, some themes weren't explored with the proper sensitivity and depth, as I felt that they deserved and that the author was capable of (i.e. transgender, obesity and sexual addiction).
Ultimately, the book was at its strongest when dealing with the titular characters.
Also the plot seemed a bit self-indulgent and immature at times, like they were just gliding from fancy dinners to parties to drugs in hotel rooms. I realize it's a reflection of the character's nature and mental state, but it almost got tedious reading about the woes of rich beautiful people in lavish New York settings.
However I will say, for the most part the writing was beautiful throughout. There were some touching quotes and insightful remarks on human nature and interaction. But there were also points made that seemed tacky, juvenile or repetative.
First of all, it just wasn't what I expected. I thought this would be an in-depth exploration of a single relationship, but it dealt in fact with an ensemble of characters, all connected, some of them getting their own POVs. Some of the POVs were really good (Eleonor - although it almost felt like an entirely different book with its own writing style), some of them were fine (Zoe and Andres), and some felt like an unnecessary short story (Santiago). And some were criminally undertreated (justice for Quentin!)
Because of this divide, some themes weren't explored with the proper sensitivity and depth, as I felt that they deserved and that the author was capable of (i.e. transgender, obesity and sexual addiction).
Ultimately, the book was at its strongest when dealing with the titular characters.
Also the plot seemed a bit self-indulgent and immature at times, like they were just gliding from fancy dinners to parties to drugs in hotel rooms. I realize it's a reflection of the character's nature and mental state, but it almost got tedious reading about the woes of rich beautiful people in lavish New York settings.
However I will say, for the most part the writing was beautiful throughout. There were some touching quotes and insightful remarks on human nature and interaction. But there were also points made that seemed tacky, juvenile or repetative.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Drug abuse, Self harm, Suicide, Toxic relationship, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, and Toxic friendship
Moderate: Animal death