About:
'This Monstrous Thing' by Mackenzi Lee is a thrilling, hair-raising debut that presents a twist on the classic tale of Frankenstein. The story combines contemporary writing with a fast pace, funny dialogue, and deep insights, exploring the consequences of doing something terrible for someone you love. The novel cleverly incorporates emotions and lessons from Mary Shelley's original work in a relatable manner, keeping readers engaged and eager to turn the pages.
The book is set in an alternate steampunk world, where resurrection is achieved through gears and gadgets, creating a vivid story world. The heart of the story lies in the complex relationship between brothers Oliver and Alasdair, which is portrayed realistically with all its complications, hope, love, and power. Mackenzi Lee's writing style brilliantly captures the essence of the original story while adding her unique touch, making 'This Monstrous Thing' a page-turner read with compelling characters that linger in the minds of readers long after finishing the book.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of loss and the psychological impact of resurrection, which may be triggering for some readers.
From The Publisher:
A wildly creative Gothic fantasy retelling of Frankenstein, This Monstrous Thing is a wholly new reimagining of the classic novel by Mary Shelley and is perfect for fans of retellings such as Cinder by Marissa Meyer, fantasy by Libba Bray and Cassandra Clare, and alternative history by Scott Westerfeld.
In an alternative fantasy world where some men are made from clockwork parts and carriages are steam powered, Alasdair Finch, a young mechanic, does the unthinkable after his brother dies: he uses clockwork pieces to bring Oliver back from the dead.
But the resurrection does not go as planned, and Oliver returns more monster than man. Even worse, the novel Frankenstein is published and the townsfolk are determined to find the real-life doctor and his monster. With few places to turn for help, the dangers may ultimately bring the brothers together-or ruin them forever.
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About the Author:
Mackenzi Lee holds a BA in history and an MFA from Simmons College in writing for children and young adults. Her short fiction and nonfiction has appeared in Atlas Obscura, the Boston Globe, Crixeo, and the Newport Review, among others. Her debut novel, This Monstrous Thing, won the PEN New England-Susan P. Bloom Children's Book Discovery Award. Her second book, The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue, was a New York Times bestseller and an ABA bestseller, earned five starred reviews, was a #1 Indie Next Pick, and received a 2018 Stonewall Book Award Honor and a New England Book Award. She loves Diet Coke, sweater weather, and Star Wars. On a perfect day, she can be found enjoying all three. She currently calls Boston home, where she works as an independent bookstore manager and pets every dog she meets. www.mackenzilee.com
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