The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein

The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein

By Kiersten White
Published: Delacorte Press, 2018
Pages: 292
Genre: Young Adult, Thriller
Amazon, Goodreads

All my work, all my sacrifice, has been for a single purpose: I'm going to defy death. I am going to steal the spark of creation from it, to make life eternal, untouchable by corruption.

About the book: Elizabeth Lavenza is being starved and abused by her "caregiver" until she is brought to the home of Victor Frankenstein, who has everything one could need - except a friend. She and Victor become inseparable, but as years pass, Elizabeth's position in the Frankenstein home grows increasingly uncertain and she must manage Victor's temper and indulge his every whim, no matter how dangerous. How far will Elizabeth go to survive? 

I wasn't sure I'd even like this book because retellings also make me anxious; I never think retellings will hold up against the original stories. The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein definitely does! It's a dark, engrossing novel beautifully crafted in a way that reminds me of Mary Shelley's original monster. 

I loved Elizabeth's character, she is conniving and whip smart. I'm impressed by how White characterized Victor; readers get a clear view into the twisted mind of a psychopath. The tone of the novel is so very creepy and compelling; if anyone is looking for the perfect Halloween read, this is it!

Ultimately, Frankenstein - both the original and White's retelling - tells us who the real monsters are and what creates monsters. It's been several years since I read Shelley's novel, but I feel like the Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein is the perfect complement.

RATING (out of five puppies):