Title: The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein
Author: Kiersten White
Rating: ★★★★

“You are mine, Elizabeth Lavenza, and nothing will take you from me. Not even death.”

This was the perfect read for October. The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein is a spectacular retelling of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, told from the point of view of Elizabeth. Kiersten White has reimagined a classic with a unique perspective, while maintaining the story’s dark, twisted, gothic tone.

“You began existing the day we met. You are my Elizabeth, and that is all that matters.”

The way in which the author wrote this book is brilliant. She manages to both keep true to the original, and yet elaborate on some parts to create a new tale. Elizabeth Lavenza was an absolutely fascinating character to read about. She is transformed from a secondary character, into a strong, manipulative, intelligent protagonist. Elizabeth is complex and cunning; willing to do whatever she needs to in order to survive, and survival means becoming indispensable to the Frankensteins and to Victor.

I only read Frankenstein once, and that about ten years ago in high school. I’ll be honest: I didn’t enjoy it that much and so going into this I didn’t remember much about the classic. However, I still found enjoyment in reading this and as I continued through the chapters, I began to recall bits and pieces of the original. I think those who have read Mary Shelley’s work and those who haven’t can find enjoyment in The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein. If you’re looking for a twisted, eerie book for Halloween, add this to your October TBR!