A review by kelly_ann
Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

dark emotional reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I am a sucker for melancholy books about the human experience and this was definitely that. Reading Cleopatra and Frankenstein was like being dropped into someone’s life, following them around, and just as suddenly being pulled away. In this case we not only follow the two main characters, but briefly drop into the lives of a few of the side characters too.
 
I can see how this book would not be for everyone – it’s character led with a meandering plot that really leads to nowhere – but I enjoyed it! I will say, though, that the description on the back of the book is a little misleading. I found very little humour in it and, while, there are a couple of POVs from the side character’s referenced, their storylines are pretty minor. I would also recommend checking trigger warnings before reading; there is adultery, heavy drug use, discussions of depression and suicide, and an attempted suicide.
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