Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors Summary

Cleopatra and Frankenstein follows 24-year-old British painter Cleo and 45-year-old self-made executive Frank, whose impulsive New York City marriage spirals into a poignant exploration of mental illness, addiction, and identity. Their relationship fractures under the weight of Cleo’s depression and Frank’s alcoholism, impacting their eclectic circle of friends and family. The novel blends dark humor with raw emotional depth, examining how loneliness drives people apart even as they seek connection.

Fans of character-driven literary fiction, such as Sally Rooney’s works, will appreciate its unflinching portrayal of flawed relationships. Readers interested in themes like mental health, LGBTQ+ identity, and the complexities of modern love will find it compelling. The novel’s mix of humor and heartbreak suits those who enjoy layered narratives about human imperfection.

Yes—its sharp wit, vivid characters, and emotionally charged storytelling make it a standout debut. While some critique its pacing, the novel’s exploration of addiction, artistic ambition, and societal expectations resonates deeply. Coco Mellors’ writing has been praised for its balance of levity and gravity, appealing to readers seeking both entertainment and introspection.

Key themes include the destructive power of loneliness, the interplay between love and self-sabotage, and the search for identity amid societal pressures. The novel also critiques excess in modern culture and examines how mental health struggles can isolate individuals even within intimate relationships.

Cleo’s battle with depression culminates in a suicide attempt, while Frank’s alcoholism exacerbates their marital strife. The book portrays mental illness as both a personal struggle and a relational challenge, highlighting how stigma and misunderstanding can deepen crises. Mellors avoids romanticizing these issues, instead emphasizing their messy, real-world impacts.

The juxtaposition of Cleopatra (symbolizing allure and tragedy) and Frankenstein (representing creation and destruction) mirrors the protagonists’ volatile dynamic. Cleo, an artist grappling with her worth, contrasts Frank, a businessman masking vulnerability with excess. The title reflects their chaotic love story and the societal myths shaping their identities.

• Cleo: A British painter battling depression and visa insecurity.
• Frank: A charismatic yet self-destructive ad executive.
• Eleanor: Frank’s colleague, whose unrequited love complicates the marriage.
• Anders: Cleo’s lover, who becomes collateral damage in her unraveling.

Their whirlwind romance collapses under infidelity, addiction, and unmet emotional needs. A tragic accident involving their pet sugar glider becomes a metaphor for their disintegrating bond. Cleo’s suicide attempt and Frank’s inability to confront his drinking ultimately end their relationship, leaving both isolated.

Cleo’s best friend, Santiago, navigates gender queerness amid her marriage, adding depth to the exploration of identity. His storyline illustrates the tension between self-expression and societal expectations, though some critics argue LGBTQ+ characters could be more centrally developed.

NYC’s relentless energy mirrors the characters’ chaotic lives, offering both opportunity and alienation. The city’s art scenes, nightlife, and transient relationships amplify Cleo and Frank’s struggles to find stability, making it a silent yet pivotal character in the narrative.

Some reviewers note uneven pacing and abrupt shifts in perspective, particularly Eleanor’s first-person chapters. Critics argue these choices disrupt the novel’s flow, though others praise Mellors’ ambition in experimenting with narrative structure.

While her second novel, Blue Sisters, focuses on sibling bonds, Cleopatra and Frankenstein delves into romantic and plathetic relationships frayed by personal crises. Both books showcase Mellors’ talent for crafting emotionally complex characters, but Cleopatra leans darker, examining the fallout of impulsive decisions.