If you enjoy books that feel raw, real, and emotionally layered, Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors might be your next favorite read. This debut novel has been praised for its lyrical writing, complex characters, and deeply honest portrayal of love, identity, and mental health.
The story follows Cleo, a young British artist in New York, and Frank, an older man she meets just before her visa expires. Their sudden marriage kicks off a rollercoaster of intense emotions, artistic struggles, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
What Type of Book Is This?
- Genre: Literary Fiction / Contemporary Romance
- Mood: Thoughtful, melancholic, poetic
- Themes: Mental health, relationships, adulthood, self-discovery, found family
- Great For: Fans of emotional, character-driven stories with beautiful prose
This isn’t your typical romance—it’s deeper and darker, showing both the beauty and the pain of loving someone while still figuring out who you are.
Why You’ll Love It
Coco Mellors writes with a sharp yet sensitive style that brings every character to life. The dialogue feels real. The emotions cut deep. And the reflections on love, art, and mental health will stay with you long after you finish the last page.
This is the kind of novel that doesn’t just entertain—it makes you feel.
Bonus Tip:
If you liked Cleopatra and Frankenstein, you might also like:
- Normal People by Sally Rooney — for its emotionally intimate, on-again-off-again relationship and subtle emotional tension
- Exciting Times by Naoise Dolan — for its sharp prose, modern relationships, and detached but thoughtful tone
- Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney — for its introspective characters and conversations about love, art, and meaning
- My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh — for its dark humor, troubled protagonist, and raw exploration of mental health
- Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton — for its heartfelt mix of memoir and reflection on growing up, love, and female friendship
Ready to dive in?
Grab your copy of Cleopatra and Frankenstein on Amazon now.
