The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein (2018)

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HALLOWEEN REVIEWS 2025


by Kiersten White



The story of Frankenstein receives a feminist retelling. 



Author Kiersten White highlights the dependent position of women in the 18th century, using it to provide powerful character motivation. 


Kiersten White

Elizabeth Lavenza was rescued from an abusive home by the Frankenstein family to serve as a companion to their brilliant but strange son, Victor. 


"The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein" (Italian)

She forms a complicated bond with him that consists of genuine regard but also the keen awareness that her very survival depends upon her continued usefulness in the eyes of his parents.

 

"The Fall of Elizabeth Frankenstein" (Russian)

So when Victor goes missing while pursuing his unusual studies (the nature of which will be no surprise to anyone with even a nodding acquaintance with popular culture), she goes in search of him. 


"The Dark Night of Elizabeth Frankenstein" (Serbian)

As the novel progresses, the darkness in Victor becomes more clear to her, as does her own denial of his true nature and complicity in his crimes. 


"Elizabeth Frankenstein's Dark Fall" (Turkish)

This is a terrific take on a classic tale that fumbles a bit at the end due to some convenient plotting.

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