What do you think?
Rate this book
Bride
The year is 1795. Frankenstein’s monster has given his creator an Victor must build the creature a mate, or watch as the monster destroys everything and everyone he has ever loved.
You know their story.
You don’t know hers.
She is born into darkness, her destiny entwined with an unspeakable evil. Her sole companion is her creator, the inscrutable Victor Frankenstein, gatekeeper to a life she has never experienced. As her understanding of humanity takes shape, she must contend with the horrific nature of her intended mate and conflicting feelings for her creator.
She wants more from life than to be the bride of Frankenstein’s monster, but will she seek freedom, vengeance, or something else entirely?
You know their story.
You don’t know hers.
She is born into darkness, her destiny entwined with an unspeakable evil. Her sole companion is her creator, the inscrutable Victor Frankenstein, gatekeeper to a life she has never experienced. As her understanding of humanity takes shape, she must contend with the horrific nature of her intended mate and conflicting feelings for her creator.
She wants more from life than to be the bride of Frankenstein’s monster, but will she seek freedom, vengeance, or something else entirely?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 24, 2017
About the author
Kyle Alexander Romines
33 books148 followersKyle Alexander Romines is a teller of tales from the hills of Kentucky. He enjoys good reads, thunderstorms, and anything edible. His writing interests include fantasy, science fiction, horror, and western.
Kyle’s lifelong love of books began with childhood bedtime stories and was fostered by his parents and teachers. He grew up reading Calvin and Hobbes, RL Stine’s Goosebumps series, and Harry Potter. His current list of favorites includes Justin Cronin’s The Passage, Red Rising by Pierce Brown, and Bone by Jeff Smith. The library is his friend.
Kyle's debut horror novel, The Keeper of the Crows, appeared on the Preliminary Ballot of the 2015 Bram Stoker Awards in the category of Superior Achievement in a First Novel. His next book, a western, is scheduled to be released in 2017 by Sunbury Press, which has also accepted the sequel to The Keeper of the Crows for publication in 2018.
He is a graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine.
You can contact Kyle at thekylealexander@hotmail.com. You can also subscribe to his author newsletter to receive email updates and a FREE electronic copy of his science fiction novella, The Chrononaut, at http://eepurl.com/bsvhYP.
Kyle’s lifelong love of books began with childhood bedtime stories and was fostered by his parents and teachers. He grew up reading Calvin and Hobbes, RL Stine’s Goosebumps series, and Harry Potter. His current list of favorites includes Justin Cronin’s The Passage, Red Rising by Pierce Brown, and Bone by Jeff Smith. The library is his friend.
Kyle's debut horror novel, The Keeper of the Crows, appeared on the Preliminary Ballot of the 2015 Bram Stoker Awards in the category of Superior Achievement in a First Novel. His next book, a western, is scheduled to be released in 2017 by Sunbury Press, which has also accepted the sequel to The Keeper of the Crows for publication in 2018.
He is a graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine.
You can contact Kyle at thekylealexander@hotmail.com. You can also subscribe to his author newsletter to receive email updates and a FREE electronic copy of his science fiction novella, The Chrononaut, at http://eepurl.com/bsvhYP.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 28, 2020
Audio – 3.5 Stars
Story – 2 Disappointing Stars
I’m sure many will love this story. I was expecting something different. The writing, however, is exceptional.
I was hoping for an action-packed revenge filled horror story. While the story did have some of that, I found it mostly slow paced, repetitive, and boring. I didn’t care much for the heroine and her endless monologues. She struggled with whether to be a vengeful monster or a forgiving human being. My sympathies lied with “the creature” that Frankenstein created and rejected. I couldn’t blame him for acting the way he did. He deserved better.
Story – 2 Disappointing Stars
I’m sure many will love this story. I was expecting something different. The writing, however, is exceptional.
I was hoping for an action-packed revenge filled horror story. While the story did have some of that, I found it mostly slow paced, repetitive, and boring. I didn’t care much for the heroine and her endless monologues. She struggled with whether to be a vengeful monster or a forgiving human being. My sympathies lied with “the creature” that Frankenstein created and rejected. I couldn’t blame him for acting the way he did. He deserved better.
May 16, 2019
Bride by Kyle Alexander Romines and narrated by Becca Ballenger is an Audible book I requested and the review is voluntary. This book is a completely unique take on the bride of Frankenstein! The whole story takes place from the view of the "bride", Justine. Throughout the story the reader gets to know more about the first creation of "monster", Victor himself, and others in relationship to Frankenstein and Justine.
This has a unique plot and characters that hooked me right away!
It is a horror story, but it is so much more! There is so many emotions expressed by all players that this author makes you feel. My emotions were all over the place! It was suspenseful, heartbreaking, tender, crushing, horrifying, and more. Certainly unpredictable!
The narrator performed this perfectly! I was lost in the story and never once thought of her voice as "the narrator's" voice. It was always the character's voice.
This has a unique plot and characters that hooked me right away!
It is a horror story, but it is so much more! There is so many emotions expressed by all players that this author makes you feel. My emotions were all over the place! It was suspenseful, heartbreaking, tender, crushing, horrifying, and more. Certainly unpredictable!
The narrator performed this perfectly! I was lost in the story and never once thought of her voice as "the narrator's" voice. It was always the character's voice.
July 15, 2019
Imagine, One minute you are happy, you have the love of your life, you are in a job which you enjoy, and you hear a scream and go searching to see what it was, get tired and have a nap, burnt to death for a crime you did not commit. The next thing you know, you have woken up DEAD!
That is exactly what happens to Justine, she literally wakes up dead, no heartbeat, cold and with scars. All thanks to Mr Frankenstein. He made a deal to his other monster to make a bride for him.
Justine has a new name and new life, but she starts remembering what happened in the life she had before death and it isn’t long before she is back to the place it all started.
This was an absolutely brilliant story. I have not actually read the original Frankenstein book but everyone knows about the monster he created.
Bride audiobook is narrated by Becca Ballenger, I must say I enjoyed her reading of the book a lot her voice kept me captured throughout. Her performance was great, she bought life into each character and it felt like I was right there watching everything happening.
That is exactly what happens to Justine, she literally wakes up dead, no heartbeat, cold and with scars. All thanks to Mr Frankenstein. He made a deal to his other monster to make a bride for him.
Justine has a new name and new life, but she starts remembering what happened in the life she had before death and it isn’t long before she is back to the place it all started.
This was an absolutely brilliant story. I have not actually read the original Frankenstein book but everyone knows about the monster he created.
Bride audiobook is narrated by Becca Ballenger, I must say I enjoyed her reading of the book a lot her voice kept me captured throughout. Her performance was great, she bought life into each character and it felt like I was right there watching everything happening.
January 4, 2018
Kyle's best book yet. From the birth of the bride to the end it kept you intrigued and wondering where they were going to next. At time,s I often felt as if I were there with them wonder the countryside. His descriptions were hands on and made you feel a part of the book.
December 13, 2017
When you look at the classic movies, you know there's a fabulous story, but you never really know what's on the minds of the antagonists. In Dracula, you naturally know what's going on, but what about The Mummy, Wolfman or in this case, Frankenstein? Well, Kyle Alexander Romines sorta takes care of that in Bride.
I grew up on classics. What I fell for the most were the classic horrors. They're what flowed through my veins and still do to this day. So when I got my hands on Bride, I was thrilled. Romines is a brilliant author. Each book I've read by him has been a true keeper. So what was the difference between this telling compared to others? The POV: point of view.
You discover Persephone's newly created personality. Just when you think you know her, other facets resurface. It's a path to discover and rediscovery. She has to find a way to start again, move on and seek out, not a fairytale ending, but a life worth living. Can she? Or will she end up in pieces- not just emotionally either!
Bride isn't just the story of a re-animated woman, It's about a woman who's learning all about who she is as well as who she'd been. It's deep, sort of a mystery. It's soft, a bit of a romance as well. Then it's a horror- it is about a woman who'd been killed and brought back to life! Speaking of being brought back, the reason she was reanimated is also fabulous, making it also about revenge.
This is my third or fourth read by Romines and I have to say, I am a fan. I think he's struck oil with this book and I'm proud to boast on it. If you enjoy thrillers, romance, horror and mystery- this is your book!
Cheers!
Bride
Kyle Alexander Romines
Published by CreateSpace Publishing
362-pages
Books/Literature/Fiction/Horror
I grew up on classics. What I fell for the most were the classic horrors. They're what flowed through my veins and still do to this day. So when I got my hands on Bride, I was thrilled. Romines is a brilliant author. Each book I've read by him has been a true keeper. So what was the difference between this telling compared to others? The POV: point of view.
You discover Persephone's newly created personality. Just when you think you know her, other facets resurface. It's a path to discover and rediscovery. She has to find a way to start again, move on and seek out, not a fairytale ending, but a life worth living. Can she? Or will she end up in pieces- not just emotionally either!
Bride isn't just the story of a re-animated woman, It's about a woman who's learning all about who she is as well as who she'd been. It's deep, sort of a mystery. It's soft, a bit of a romance as well. Then it's a horror- it is about a woman who'd been killed and brought back to life! Speaking of being brought back, the reason she was reanimated is also fabulous, making it also about revenge.
This is my third or fourth read by Romines and I have to say, I am a fan. I think he's struck oil with this book and I'm proud to boast on it. If you enjoy thrillers, romance, horror and mystery- this is your book!
Cheers!
Bride
Kyle Alexander Romines
Published by CreateSpace Publishing
362-pages
Books/Literature/Fiction/Horror
December 17, 2017
Growing up, every Saturday night we watched Chiller. Each week was a spooky movie and then we'd be afraid to go to bed. I was more into the Bela Lugosi movies since Frankenstein was scarier looking.
So I was fairly new to Frankenstein. But this book was a one of a kind special story! The author puts strong feelings into his characters and it hit me hard. You will manage to even have feelings towards the evil ones which totally surprised me. Usually an evil character is just that. He made then all come to life and you understood them.
Seeing the point of view through the Bride's eyes and thoughts made the book amazing. How the author managed to combine horror, romance, and a mystery into this novel was a gift for writing that he has.
Truthfully, I hated for this book to end. I hope there are plenty more to come! Would definitely recommend!!
So I was fairly new to Frankenstein. But this book was a one of a kind special story! The author puts strong feelings into his characters and it hit me hard. You will manage to even have feelings towards the evil ones which totally surprised me. Usually an evil character is just that. He made then all come to life and you understood them.
Seeing the point of view through the Bride's eyes and thoughts made the book amazing. How the author managed to combine horror, romance, and a mystery into this novel was a gift for writing that he has.
Truthfully, I hated for this book to end. I hope there are plenty more to come! Would definitely recommend!!
July 9, 2019
Read on KU / Audiobook review
The story:
I grew up with the classic horror movies - Dracula, The Mummy and Frakenstein. I have read those books as well, and whilst Dracula is my ultimate monster, Frankenstein was actually the one that scared me the most. The thought that the dead were brought back in such away by Vicktor Frankenstein sent shivers down my spine. Though I have longed to read a good Bride of Frankenstein book and Bride just blew that out of the water.
From the start we are transported back to 1795 and to Castle Frakenstein where Justine Moritz, who is the nanny at the castle is tried and lynched by a mob for the murder of her charge William. There was no trial, only instant death.
Sometime later Persephone wakes up in a remote part of Scotland with her creator Vicktor. He taught her everything he can, and we see Persephone's new personality come through, along with little flashes of her previous life. She soon discovered what her fate was after she died and what Vicktor has done to her, and not for the first time!
Bride has a mixture of horror, romance and mystery all entwined into a story that will take you an emotional ride that you will feel everything that Justine/Persephone goes through as the author weaves a tale not just of horror but one of love and ultimately revenge.
The Narration:
Becca Ballenger was good at telling this tale, she had a voice that was perfect for this genre though I have to admit I struggled with some parts of the narration - I did not feel she was able to produce a good male voice, and several times throughout it was hard to differentiate the male character that was talking. Other than that she made the story engaging and conveyed all the emotions throughout the book.
The story:
I grew up with the classic horror movies - Dracula, The Mummy and Frakenstein. I have read those books as well, and whilst Dracula is my ultimate monster, Frankenstein was actually the one that scared me the most. The thought that the dead were brought back in such away by Vicktor Frankenstein sent shivers down my spine. Though I have longed to read a good Bride of Frankenstein book and Bride just blew that out of the water.
From the start we are transported back to 1795 and to Castle Frakenstein where Justine Moritz, who is the nanny at the castle is tried and lynched by a mob for the murder of her charge William. There was no trial, only instant death.
Sometime later Persephone wakes up in a remote part of Scotland with her creator Vicktor. He taught her everything he can, and we see Persephone's new personality come through, along with little flashes of her previous life. She soon discovered what her fate was after she died and what Vicktor has done to her, and not for the first time!
Bride has a mixture of horror, romance and mystery all entwined into a story that will take you an emotional ride that you will feel everything that Justine/Persephone goes through as the author weaves a tale not just of horror but one of love and ultimately revenge.
The Narration:
Becca Ballenger was good at telling this tale, she had a voice that was perfect for this genre though I have to admit I struggled with some parts of the narration - I did not feel she was able to produce a good male voice, and several times throughout it was hard to differentiate the male character that was talking. Other than that she made the story engaging and conveyed all the emotions throughout the book.
May 22, 2019
I read the original classic horror story, Frankenstein, many, many years ago. I have recently reread it and have fond memories of all the campy movies that have been made from this book over the years.
However, nothing could have prepared me for the wonder that is this book, "Bride"! This tale is told from the perspective of Justine Moritz, a young woman who served as nanny in the Frankenstein mansion. After her lynching for the murder of young William, she soon finds herself reborn as a creature created for Viktor Frankenstein's monster.
This was a wonderful book and so much more than a horror story. The emotions evoked by Justine's tale ranged from empathy, sadness, fear, love, longing, and revenge. The author does a great job writing a unique perspective on a classic tale. The descriptions throughout the book make the reader feel like they are living the story, not just listening to it.
The narrator, Becca Ballenger, does an amazing job and I found myself totally caught up in this story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the original Frankenstein, as well as those who just love a good horror story. I was given the opportunity to listen to the Audible version of this book by the author and chose to review it.
However, nothing could have prepared me for the wonder that is this book, "Bride"! This tale is told from the perspective of Justine Moritz, a young woman who served as nanny in the Frankenstein mansion. After her lynching for the murder of young William, she soon finds herself reborn as a creature created for Viktor Frankenstein's monster.
This was a wonderful book and so much more than a horror story. The emotions evoked by Justine's tale ranged from empathy, sadness, fear, love, longing, and revenge. The author does a great job writing a unique perspective on a classic tale. The descriptions throughout the book make the reader feel like they are living the story, not just listening to it.
The narrator, Becca Ballenger, does an amazing job and I found myself totally caught up in this story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the original Frankenstein, as well as those who just love a good horror story. I was given the opportunity to listen to the Audible version of this book by the author and chose to review it.
July 24, 2019
At the beginning of Bride I was wondering if I would like the listen as it felt like it was dragging a bit but by the third chapter I was hooked. It kept my interest through the end and finished strong.
Following the main character's progress from when she was first reborn until she regained her memories was interesting. Her journey from the point where she regained her memories in full had lots of suspense and drama which are my favourite things in a scary book.
For me Romines really brought out the human side of the characters, making them all very relatable, which is not easy in something so fantasy based. I felt empathy for the creature, I understood Frankenstein's motives and my heart ached for Josephine. An emotional, touching read.
Becca is an excellent narrator for this book, the way she differentiated the characters made it easy to keep track of who was who. I really enjoyed the sound of of her voice and would happily listen to another book narrated by her.
Overall I would say the I highly recommend this audio book, well worth the listen.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Kyle Alexander Romines. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Following the main character's progress from when she was first reborn until she regained her memories was interesting. Her journey from the point where she regained her memories in full had lots of suspense and drama which are my favourite things in a scary book.
For me Romines really brought out the human side of the characters, making them all very relatable, which is not easy in something so fantasy based. I felt empathy for the creature, I understood Frankenstein's motives and my heart ached for Josephine. An emotional, touching read.
Becca is an excellent narrator for this book, the way she differentiated the characters made it easy to keep track of who was who. I really enjoyed the sound of of her voice and would happily listen to another book narrated by her.
Overall I would say the I highly recommend this audio book, well worth the listen.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Kyle Alexander Romines. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
August 27, 2018
I'd only ever known the story of "Bride of Frankenstien" from clips of the original film and other media snips. I've never read any of the stories, don't care much for horror after King and Koontz, but, Kyle can do no wrong. The story starts like any other put your bright eyed and bushy tailed cast in an idyllic setting, add a protagonist, mix well. Nothing is so cut and dried, and neither is this story. There's a lot going on in all of the cast. You get so much emotion from each of them and they are well rounded. Motivations are clean but muddied, as they swing from Good and evil. Settings are described well enough to make me feel chilled on a warm summer night. This isn't so much a horror story as a glimpse into troubled people and how they cope when all is lost, even love. Grab a copy today, you'll be glad you did.
July 23, 2019
I have to admit Bride is not in my typical go to genre. After reading the blurb, I was intrigued and decided to give it a try. This is proof why I should go outside of my comfort zone to keep from missing out on an awesome. I had the pleasure of listening to the audio version and enjoyed every single minute of it. Becca Ballenger did a fantastic performance. Her voice was perfect for this book. I plan to give it another listen some time soon.
I would give Bride one hundred stars if I could. I would love to give Kyle Alexander Romines another try to see where else his imagination takes his readers. This one was awesome. I highly recommend it.
I received the audio version of this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I would give Bride one hundred stars if I could. I would love to give Kyle Alexander Romines another try to see where else his imagination takes his readers. This one was awesome. I highly recommend it.
I received the audio version of this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
May 10, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Kyle took all the elements of Mary Shelley’s original story and wove another character into it. Instead of being destroyed as happened in the original novel, the bride is brought to life, and her life with Victor and her conflicts with the creature make for an interesting read indeed.
January 26, 2018
Great story!
This was most definitely a book that was hard to put down. It was well written with not one single dull moment. I can't wait to read more by this author. I loved this story!!
This was most definitely a book that was hard to put down. It was well written with not one single dull moment. I can't wait to read more by this author. I loved this story!!
July 2, 2018
Fantastic take on a classic story.
This impressive young author just graduated from University of Louisville Medical school and already has another of several books out. Home town boy...... Campbellsville KY is proud.
This impressive young author just graduated from University of Louisville Medical school and already has another of several books out. Home town boy...... Campbellsville KY is proud.
August 12, 2018
A Most Excellent Tale
Kyle Romines has crafted an excellent story; very faithful to Mary Shelley's original. I found it a very good read. Looks like I'll have to look for more of Mr Romines' work.
Kyle Romines has crafted an excellent story; very faithful to Mary Shelley's original. I found it a very good read. Looks like I'll have to look for more of Mr Romines' work.
September 15, 2020
3.5 stars. It was an compelling story with a lot of emotion and I enjoyed it and saw the beauty of the book but I feelt like some of it draged on for a bit and it wasn't as action packed as I thought it would but once I got over that it was a good story overall
October 22, 2026
Great read
I was really skeptical at first, as a lover of horror, I find most books laughable and unrealistic in any true manor. But I must say this one was an excellent read. I highly recommend it.
I was really skeptical at first, as a lover of horror, I find most books laughable and unrealistic in any true manor. But I must say this one was an excellent read. I highly recommend it.
January 21, 2018
Not what I expected at all. This is a very good story with a lot of depth toa the main characters and a lot of emotion. Some sadness but mostly intrigue.
Read it - you will not be sorry!
Read it - you will not be sorry!
May 27, 2018
Very good read, point of view is excellent work.
July 11, 2018
Superb
Spell binding page turner for sure. Loved it. Kept me guessing would definitely recommend this book to other readers alike
Spell binding page turner for sure. Loved it. Kept me guessing would definitely recommend this book to other readers alike
July 14, 2018
Audible:The Frankenstine monsters story from another viewpoint.Very good.Becca Ballanger was a terrific narrator.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
July 22, 2019
4.5 STARS. AUDIO BOOK REVIEW. What first drew me to BRIDE by Kyle Alexander Romines was *SHOCK* the creepy cover. With the eerie coloring, stormy sky, graveyard, and of course, the shadowy veiled woman, how could I pass-up the chance to have a read (with my ears)? Happily, the story held within is just as intriguing in this interesting companion story to Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Both books share the core elements of being horror with a bit of suspense and much tragedy, but BRIDE has the added element of romance. Strangely, it is really love that ultimately drives the action and consequences of nearly every event in the story – and it works.
Romines sets the stage with an excellent prologue that shows just how beautiful and vibrant main character Justine is before her death, and it shows just how quickly mob mentality can change the world in a blink of an eye. The consequences of that fateful day are far-reaching. As Justine is re-born, she’s also re-named Persephone. Even while Persephone doesn’t understand the significance of her name, readers know that it’s apropos enough. Just like the Greek goddess was abducted to become the wife of Hades, Justine was taken to become the wife of the Creature created by Victor Frankenstein.
As Persephone evolves and becomes smarter -- brilliant really -- she discovers love and tenderness. She reads stories that raise her awareness of feelings of affection, and naturally, she has those feelings for Victor. Again, author Kyle Romines does a terrific job of allowing readers to feel what Persephone feels and aptly describes her evolution as random pieces of Persephone’s memory return to her and she blossoms. But always lurking in the background is the Creature – fierce, dangerous, mysterious, but not wholly evil.
When Persephone grows smart enough to put the pieces together, she gets pissed… uh-oh. There is ruthlessly executed revenge, but there is also regret, heartbreak, love, and compassion – and Persephone the monster is more than anything else, human. Persephone struggles with her feelings, and her revelations make her (and readers) question who are the real monsters in the world.
Love is as much a driving force as hate and vengeance, which was a surprise to me. Had I known this beforehand, I likely would have passed on reading BRIDE, so I am glad I didn’t know. The book is longer than it needs to be, and there are two major plot holes that I feel need to be addressed regarding Victor and the Creature. However, BRIDE keeps the reader engaged and enthralled with its twists and turns, and the story finishes perfectly. Predictably, yes, but even this ending has an unexpected twist and there is definitely unfinished business that could merit another book. (I would read it.)
ABOUT THE NARRATION: Technically, there isn’t a single glitch in the recording. It’s professionally done, through and through. Narrator Becca Ballenger gives readers a wonderful performance with perfect pacing (I listened at regular speed). She speaks in a British accent, and in true Brit form, keeps the delivery fairly even with the emotions coming across in the enunciation and slight inflections of the words. Her voicing of Justine/Persephone is outstanding and authentic, making listeners forget they are hearing a work of fiction. She skillfully tackles male and female characters, giving each of them unique voices, and her delivery of the Creature’s lines perfectly conveys the rage within him. Well done.
Thank you to AudioBookWorm Promotions and the author for providing me an audio download in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
Romines sets the stage with an excellent prologue that shows just how beautiful and vibrant main character Justine is before her death, and it shows just how quickly mob mentality can change the world in a blink of an eye. The consequences of that fateful day are far-reaching. As Justine is re-born, she’s also re-named Persephone. Even while Persephone doesn’t understand the significance of her name, readers know that it’s apropos enough. Just like the Greek goddess was abducted to become the wife of Hades, Justine was taken to become the wife of the Creature created by Victor Frankenstein.
As Persephone evolves and becomes smarter -- brilliant really -- she discovers love and tenderness. She reads stories that raise her awareness of feelings of affection, and naturally, she has those feelings for Victor. Again, author Kyle Romines does a terrific job of allowing readers to feel what Persephone feels and aptly describes her evolution as random pieces of Persephone’s memory return to her and she blossoms. But always lurking in the background is the Creature – fierce, dangerous, mysterious, but not wholly evil.
When Persephone grows smart enough to put the pieces together, she gets pissed… uh-oh. There is ruthlessly executed revenge, but there is also regret, heartbreak, love, and compassion – and Persephone the monster is more than anything else, human. Persephone struggles with her feelings, and her revelations make her (and readers) question who are the real monsters in the world.
Love is as much a driving force as hate and vengeance, which was a surprise to me. Had I known this beforehand, I likely would have passed on reading BRIDE, so I am glad I didn’t know. The book is longer than it needs to be, and there are two major plot holes that I feel need to be addressed regarding Victor and the Creature. However, BRIDE keeps the reader engaged and enthralled with its twists and turns, and the story finishes perfectly. Predictably, yes, but even this ending has an unexpected twist and there is definitely unfinished business that could merit another book. (I would read it.)
ABOUT THE NARRATION: Technically, there isn’t a single glitch in the recording. It’s professionally done, through and through. Narrator Becca Ballenger gives readers a wonderful performance with perfect pacing (I listened at regular speed). She speaks in a British accent, and in true Brit form, keeps the delivery fairly even with the emotions coming across in the enunciation and slight inflections of the words. Her voicing of Justine/Persephone is outstanding and authentic, making listeners forget they are hearing a work of fiction. She skillfully tackles male and female characters, giving each of them unique voices, and her delivery of the Creature’s lines perfectly conveys the rage within him. Well done.
Thank you to AudioBookWorm Promotions and the author for providing me an audio download in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
Did Not Finish
June 24, 2019
July 19, 2019
It’s an interesting addition to the Frankenstein fractured fairy tales out there. The first half of the book is mostly romance. It feels very Victorian romance even after Justine joins the ranks of Dr. Frankenstein’s creations. The second half of the book was much more interesting to me. Justine, who was renamed Persephone by Victor Frankenstein, and then later Penny, has gone off on her own. She’s made friends, lost people she cares about, tested her strength and ability to live and travel on her own.
Even though the second half was more engaging, it was still a romance story. Romance just isn’t my cup of tea. Penny/Justine is desperate to be loved and accepted but she also desires vengeance. This part of the story had a Wuthering Heights feel to it with all the storms and hate and misplaced romantic feelings, especially since Victor’s first creation (a very angry brute) is still around wreaking havoc.
I recently listened to another book by this same author, The Lords of Wrath, which I liked very much. So I had certain expectations going into this story, and I wasn’t expecting so much of the plot to be Romance driven. That said, this book is well written and the characters well developed. It’s just that the Romance Genre doesn’t often hold my attention.
Bride does give us a little bit of a redemption tale. So many characters have so much to be regretful for – those who wrongly accused Justine in the first place and are responsible for her death, Frankenstein’s first creation, Victor for so many reasons, and even Justine/Penny. She’s late to realize how she’s wasted her second chance, how her actions have harmed so many, including the innocent. In the end, some characters get what they deserve and some don’t. It was a realistic ending. I loved the little twist that closes the story out. 4/5 stars.
The Narration: Becca Ballenger was a great choice for this book. She had the perfect voice for Justine/Persephone/Penny. Her male voices were believable and she had distinct voices for all the characters. I especially appreciate how she was able to capture the many, many emotions of the characters. There were no tech issues with this recording. 5/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Kyle Alexander Romines. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Even though the second half was more engaging, it was still a romance story. Romance just isn’t my cup of tea. Penny/Justine is desperate to be loved and accepted but she also desires vengeance. This part of the story had a Wuthering Heights feel to it with all the storms and hate and misplaced romantic feelings, especially since Victor’s first creation (a very angry brute) is still around wreaking havoc.
I recently listened to another book by this same author, The Lords of Wrath, which I liked very much. So I had certain expectations going into this story, and I wasn’t expecting so much of the plot to be Romance driven. That said, this book is well written and the characters well developed. It’s just that the Romance Genre doesn’t often hold my attention.
Bride does give us a little bit of a redemption tale. So many characters have so much to be regretful for – those who wrongly accused Justine in the first place and are responsible for her death, Frankenstein’s first creation, Victor for so many reasons, and even Justine/Penny. She’s late to realize how she’s wasted her second chance, how her actions have harmed so many, including the innocent. In the end, some characters get what they deserve and some don’t. It was a realistic ending. I loved the little twist that closes the story out. 4/5 stars.
The Narration: Becca Ballenger was a great choice for this book. She had the perfect voice for Justine/Persephone/Penny. Her male voices were believable and she had distinct voices for all the characters. I especially appreciate how she was able to capture the many, many emotions of the characters. There were no tech issues with this recording. 5/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Kyle Alexander Romines. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Read
May 24, 2019We have all no doubt heard of Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein, and we have all read, watched, or listened to countless versions of these stories. Bride is just another version BUT it is strictly from the Brides point of view. This is a fascinating story.
Kyle Alexander Romines has brought us a wonderful tale starting with how and when Justine (the bride) lived and died, how she was reborn and her struggles and joys along the way to becoming the Bride. The book has just enough description to give your minds eye a vision of the people places and things throughout the book. It was very hard to have to stop or even pause the story.
Becca Ballenger does an amazing job with the narration. She pulls you in pretty much from the first sentence and doesn't let go until the very last word of the book. She breaths life into each character in the book and makes you feel like you are walking beside them.
I was given this free audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Kyle Alexander Romines has brought us a wonderful tale starting with how and when Justine (the bride) lived and died, how she was reborn and her struggles and joys along the way to becoming the Bride. The book has just enough description to give your minds eye a vision of the people places and things throughout the book. It was very hard to have to stop or even pause the story.
Becca Ballenger does an amazing job with the narration. She pulls you in pretty much from the first sentence and doesn't let go until the very last word of the book. She breaths life into each character in the book and makes you feel like you are walking beside them.
I was given this free audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews