A review by readlentless
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein by Kiersten White

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

she really said— girlboss gaslight gatekeep lol elizabeth was victor's cousin and later wife in the book, frankenstein. it was honestly a refreshing take on her character. in the original book, she felt one-dimensional and simply a convenient character to pair with victor but this retelling is a whole new vibe (that i wish it was canon). her motivations, her cunning mind, and her relentless pursuit of her own place in this world were really endearing. it was about trauma, an abusive relationship, and how she had to cope by faking an entire personality to fit with victor, how she manipulated situations and people so she could be safe from poverty and destitution. i felt how hard it was for her to love and be loved genuinely. elizabeth was complex and fleshed out in this retelling. i love it bc it just makes sense. i love the women in it. it's so nice to get a pov on what was happening back in victor's home and his family. it gave me a whole new perspective of henry, justine, the creature and ofc, victor— he was a menace. he really was the monster. i also love the feminist perspective of this book— it was subtle but so on point. the third act felt a little rush in some ways but i was satisfied with the ending. i don't recommend it if u don't like character-driven novels. it is best to read frankenstein first. kiersten white is my official fave author atp (along with r.f kuang). i was in denial with and i darken and the guinevere deception lo