| This Dark Endeavor review |
|
"The purest intentions can stir up the darkest obsessions." Written as a prequel to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel, introduces Victor Frankenstein at age sixteen, his twin brother Konrad, goofy friend Henry, and beautiful crush Elizabeth. The foursome lives a privileged life at the Frankenstein mansion in Geneva. Their days are filled with fencing lessons, drama performances, and boating on the lake. But everything changes when Konrad falls deathly ill and no doctor can cure him. At the same time, Victor discovers the existence of a forbidden Elixir of Life. Believing that the Elixir may be the only way to save his brother, Victor leads Elizabeth and Henry on a dangerous adventure that puts them all in danger and is the catalyst for Victor's future obsession with science. The idea of creating a back story for Victor Frankenstein explaining his roots is intriguing. Despite taking place in the 1800s, Victor at sixteen is a relatable teen, hanging out with his friends, competing with his brother and getting into harmless trouble. The characters are likeable and the action doesn't stop. You don't have to have read Frankenstein, to enjoy this gothic story. But you might be tempted to read (or re-read) it after finishing this dramatic page turner. |
