New York, New York
How is it the end of January already? 2024 is flying by. My kids started school today. It is always nice to get back into a regular routine after the summer break. Although I am sure I could enjoy another few weeks of summer mode as well! I have had a wonderful summer of reading and have so many amazing books to review for you. I hope you have read some great books over the summer too!
This week we take a look at Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors. I read this one in December 2023 and I hadn’t heard much about it. I think sometimes it is good to read a book knowing nothing and expecting nothing – I had zero expectations. I don’t think I was expecting to enjoy this one as much as I did. This was a five-star read for me. To learn this is Mellors’ debut novel is doubly exciting – hopefully more good reads to come!
This book dives into the complexities of human relationships and the whirlwind of life in contemporary New York City. The story primarily revolves around Cleo and Frank, an unlikely pair whose relationship is as unexpected as it is fascinating. Cleo, a young British artist, finds herself in the heart of New York, where she meets Frank, an older, wealthy American. Their relationship, marked by a significant age and lifestyle gap, forms the basis of the story.
What's particularly striking about Mellors’ writing is how she captures the essence of New York – the city almost becomes a character in itself. (Sex and the City, anyone?) New York City is very high on my list of places to visit so this may be another reason why I enjoyed this book. Mellors paints a vivid picture of the art scene and the social dynamics within it. The novel doesn't just stay on the surface of glitz and glamour; it delves deeper into themes of ambition, love, and the search for identity.
This is a book for those of us who appreciate character development over plot. The character development in this one is exquisite. You get a sense of the characters flaws, their struggles, and their aspirations, making them relatable and real. Mellors doesn't shy away from exploring the messiness of relationships and the often-chaotic journey of self discovery.
The writing style is engaging, with a blend of sharp wit and poignant observations. It’s one of those books where the prose can catch you off guard with its beauty and insight. I did a lot of pausing and reflecting while reading this one. While the novel explores some heavy themes, Mellors balances it with a humour and lightness that keeps you turning the pages.
This is such a fabulous debut novel. It's a story about love, but not in the traditional sense. It's more about how people come into our lives and leave imprints in unexpected ways. This is definitely a recommended read for those of us who enjoy character-driven narratives set against the backdrop of infamous NYC.
If you're interested in contemporary fiction that dives deep into human relationships and personal growth, this book is a great pick. It's thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and beautifully written. Add Cleopatra and Frankenstein to your list, because life is too short to read bad books.