Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors : A review

Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors is a fantastic page-turner that feels like a heartfelt love letter to New York City.

The story begins with 24-year-old Cleo and 45-year-old Frank meeting on New Year’s Eve. Sparks fly immediately, and their whirlwind romance leads to marriage just a few months later. What unfolds is a deeply moving exploration of their relationship as they navigate trauma, addiction, and evolving friendships. Mellors doesn’t just stop at Cleo and Frank’s journey—she delves into the lives of the people around them, making the narrative even richer and more engaging.

While the core of the novel revolves around Cleo and Frank, Mellors offers chapters from the perspectives of several supporting characters. These include Anders, Frank’s best friend and a former model; Santiago, a restaurant owner; Quentin, a flamboyantly gay artist; and Zoe, Frank’s moody sister, among others. This multi-POV approach draws readers into the universe Mellors has crafted and ensures every character feels fully realised. One standout for me was Eleanor, the quirky and witty new copywriter at Frank’s advertising agency. She’s the kind of fictional character you wish you could meet in real life—funny, unique, and brimming with personality.

Another element I loved was the way Mellors gently but powerfully weaves in themes of childhood trauma and its lasting impact on adult relationships. Through her nuanced storytelling, she portrays how these struggles manifest in various characters’ lives, leaving readers reflecting on these themes long after finishing the book.

The author also brings New York to life with vivid detail—I could picture every scene as if I were there. While the book starts by glamorising New York’s party and drug culture, it soon peels back the layers to reveal its darker, more destructive side. This shift was both eye-opening and thought-provoking.

In fact, the back-cover blurb doesn’t do justice to how beautifully this book captures complex relationships and the messy, vibrant reality of life.

This is a must-read for anyone who loves character-driven stories with emotional depth and a strong sense of place.

10/10 recommend!