A review by ginger_curmudgeon
Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

There’s a lot that I like about this book. First, the writing. The dialogue that opens the book had me hooked. It’s been a while since I was drawn in so quickly. I will say that I did not enjoy the two chapters told in first person, but that’s likely more to do with my dislike for that character. 

Second, the characters. Most of them are awful people, that’s true. But, Frank grows and matures. He becomes a better version of himself as the book moves forward. Cleo does grow and heal in her own way. It’s been a while since I finished this book and that time has made me appreciate her arc more. Granted, I wanted things to go differently for them, but life doesn’t work that way. 

Two things I dislike: 1) the sugar glider’s story. TW: it doesn’t end well for the sugar glider and I had to take a break after that chapter; 2) Quentin. He feels too much like a gay stereotype and I don’t appreciate that. Maybe it has to do with his character also being wealthy, but still. His storyline was a letdown for me.

All that said, I am looking forward to Mellors’ next book.