Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Publication
New York : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, c2011.
Description
When his twin brother falls ill in the family's chateau in the independent republic of Geneva in the eighteenth century, sixteen-year-old Victor Frankenstein embarks on a dangerous and uncertain quest to create the forbidden Elixir of Life described in an ancient text in the family's secret Biblioteka Obscura.
User reviews
LibraryThing member hashford
In this fascinating prequel to Frankenstein, the young Victor Frankenstein sets out on a quest to obtain ingredients that will enable him to create an Elixir of Life, in an attempt to fund a cure for the mysterious illness that threatens the life of his twin, Konrad. Victor, his close friend Henry
I enjoyed this a lot. The story is well told and in a modern and accessible language which should appeal to teenage readers. The characters are convincingly drawn, both the male and the female lead, and it should appeal to readers of both sexes.
The story itself isn’t gruesome exactly, but is quite dark and has a fairly grim ending. This, I think, increases the appeal to teenagers – no nice easy solutions here!
Overall, a fascinating YA read, which will appeal to adults too.
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and his lovely cousin Elizabeth set out together on an adventure which leads them to explore arcane knowledge and confront terrifying forces.I enjoyed this a lot. The story is well told and in a modern and accessible language which should appeal to teenage readers. The characters are convincingly drawn, both the male and the female lead, and it should appeal to readers of both sexes.
The story itself isn’t gruesome exactly, but is quite dark and has a fairly grim ending. This, I think, increases the appeal to teenagers – no nice easy solutions here!
Overall, a fascinating YA read, which will appeal to adults too.
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LibraryThing member yarmando
Teenage Victor Frankenstein pursues alchemy cure for his twin brother.
Why I picked it up: Starred professional reviews, and I like Oppel.
Why I finished it: It was a slog, frankly. Oppel is a decent writer, and I was vaguely interested in where he was going with this. We all know where this story
I'd give it to: Grad students tracking the rising trend of Alchemy stories.
Why I picked it up: Starred professional reviews, and I like Oppel.
Why I finished it: It was a slog, frankly. Oppel is a decent writer, and I was vaguely interested in where he was going with this. We all know where this story
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ends up, so it plays out like a tragedy.I'd give it to: Grad students tracking the rising trend of Alchemy stories.
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LibraryThing member skstiles612
My first introduction to Frankenstein was the old black and white movie that were on TV in the 1960’s. I loved spending my Saturdays watching them. When I hit college and studied Byron, and Shelley I learned how the story of Frankenstein came about. Percy and Mary Shelley were visiting their
Kenneth Oppel took a few liberties when creating the early years of Victor Frankenstein. He gave Victor a twin brother. Victor and Konrad love each other very much. Where Victor is out for success, doing things that will make a name for himself, no matter what’; his brother Konrad is the opposite. He is constantly thinking of others and giving credit to others instead of taking it for himself. This of course draws people to him. Then we throw in their distant cousin Elizabeth. Both of the boys are drawn to her. When we add the jealousy Victor feels towards his brother over Elizabeth and the way Konrad is treated by others we can see trouble brewing.
When Konrad becomes ill and doctors can do nothing, Victor decides to become the hero here. He will do what the regular doctors can’t. HE will find a cure for his brother. He along with Elizabeth and his best friend Henry search out the old outcast alchemist Julius Polidari. He then sets out on a quest to retrieve the three main ingredients necessary for “the elixir of life”. We can see right from the beginning there is a battle raging inside of Victor. It is the battle of why he is truly taking up this quest. We see the power of darkness, in all its forms, and its effect on him.
This is a book that anyone who loves Frankenstein, or anyone who has never been privileged to read Frankenstein should read. It diverts from the original a bit but not enough to detract. In my opinion it enhanced my reading experience.
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friend Lord Byron when a storm came up. They sat around telling ghost stories when a challenge was thrown out. They were each to write a scary story and see who could come up with the best. Enter Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. For this reason when given the opportunity to read and review this book I jumped at the chance.Kenneth Oppel took a few liberties when creating the early years of Victor Frankenstein. He gave Victor a twin brother. Victor and Konrad love each other very much. Where Victor is out for success, doing things that will make a name for himself, no matter what’; his brother Konrad is the opposite. He is constantly thinking of others and giving credit to others instead of taking it for himself. This of course draws people to him. Then we throw in their distant cousin Elizabeth. Both of the boys are drawn to her. When we add the jealousy Victor feels towards his brother over Elizabeth and the way Konrad is treated by others we can see trouble brewing.
When Konrad becomes ill and doctors can do nothing, Victor decides to become the hero here. He will do what the regular doctors can’t. HE will find a cure for his brother. He along with Elizabeth and his best friend Henry search out the old outcast alchemist Julius Polidari. He then sets out on a quest to retrieve the three main ingredients necessary for “the elixir of life”. We can see right from the beginning there is a battle raging inside of Victor. It is the battle of why he is truly taking up this quest. We see the power of darkness, in all its forms, and its effect on him.
This is a book that anyone who loves Frankenstein, or anyone who has never been privileged to read Frankenstein should read. It diverts from the original a bit but not enough to detract. In my opinion it enhanced my reading experience.
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LibraryThing member lilibrarian
The story of Victor Frankenstein as a young man,before the events described in Mary Wollstonecraft's novel. His twin brother, Konrad, becomes extremely ill, and Victor develops an obsession with alchemy while trying to find a cure for his brother's illness.
LibraryThing member souloftherose
Victor Frankenstein has always felt slightly overshadowed by his elder twin brother Konrad. Konrad is kinder, more intelligent and stronger than Victor and is loved and admired by the whole household, family and servants alike, in a way that Victor knows he never will be. But when Konrad falls
Kenneth Oppel has written a prequel to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, featuring a young Victor Frankenstein at 16. I have read the original Frankenstein before but it was some time ago and I don't think you need to have read it to enjoy this prequel.
I thought Oppel did a really good job with the characters of Victor and Konrad Frankenstein. We know Victor Frankenstein isn't exactly a saint as an adult and you can see the beginnings of this in the arrogance and jealousy that Victor exhibits as a young man. It would be all too easy for Oppel to have made Victor a very unlikeable character as young man but he's managed to show enough of a dark side to Victor to make it believable that he becomes the adult Victor Frankenstein but there's also enough of a good side to him to make him a character we can sympathise with. Again, Konrad is clearly the nicer of the two twins but not so nice and good that you end up disliking him or finding him annoying.
After a bit of a slow start I found myself more and more drawn in to this gothic tale. Once I got to the last 70 pages or so I really couldn't put the book down. This is apparently the first of two books about young Victor Frankenstein and although most readers will be pleased to hear that the first book doesn't end with a cliff-hanger ending, there's still plenty of scope left for a second book. I really enjoyed reading this and it's made me want to reread Mary Shelley's original Frankenstein. I hope it also inspires young people to go on to read that great gothic classic for the first time.
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dangerously ill with a seemingly uncurable fever, Victor knows that he will do anything to make his brother well again and against the wishes of his parents he starts to dabble in alchemy, trying to concoct an Elixir of Life that will make Konrad well again.Kenneth Oppel has written a prequel to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, featuring a young Victor Frankenstein at 16. I have read the original Frankenstein before but it was some time ago and I don't think you need to have read it to enjoy this prequel.
I thought Oppel did a really good job with the characters of Victor and Konrad Frankenstein. We know Victor Frankenstein isn't exactly a saint as an adult and you can see the beginnings of this in the arrogance and jealousy that Victor exhibits as a young man. It would be all too easy for Oppel to have made Victor a very unlikeable character as young man but he's managed to show enough of a dark side to Victor to make it believable that he becomes the adult Victor Frankenstein but there's also enough of a good side to him to make him a character we can sympathise with. Again, Konrad is clearly the nicer of the two twins but not so nice and good that you end up disliking him or finding him annoying.
After a bit of a slow start I found myself more and more drawn in to this gothic tale. Once I got to the last 70 pages or so I really couldn't put the book down. This is apparently the first of two books about young Victor Frankenstein and although most readers will be pleased to hear that the first book doesn't end with a cliff-hanger ending, there's still plenty of scope left for a second book. I really enjoyed reading this and it's made me want to reread Mary Shelley's original Frankenstein. I hope it also inspires young people to go on to read that great gothic classic for the first time.
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LibraryThing member katiedoll
I'll be honest, I almost didn't pick this one up. I haven't read Frankenstein nor have I seen any versions of the movie (well ... if you don't count Van Helsing with Hugh Jackman. I wouldn't) and I didn't have any plans to. And if I wasn't going to bother with the original novel, why would I want
Unlike many others, I can't talk about how wonderfully this set up for Mary Shelley's original masterpiece and I can't talk about how everything matched up and worked out. But I can talk about how spectacular I thought this book was and how I have plans to get my hands on a copy of Frankenstein immediately.
This Dark Endeavor is 304 pages of dark, adventurous and gothic goodness. Kenneth Oppel didn't just write characters and words, he wrote a reading experience, one that is creepy and exciting. Even if this an unofficial prequel, it stands alone and honorable on all levels. Such as the characters; Victor is such a complex protagonist, even as a fifteen-year-old, and he's so amazingly written that I believed it. His posessive, jealous, and sometimes dark personality was so very authentic and chilling. I haven't even read Frankenstein, but even I can tell that Oppel nailed it.
And there is never a dull moment. The adventures that Victor, Henry and Elizabeth go on to secure ingredients needed to save his twin brother's life are all fast-paced, high on energy and intensity. And when they're not on some kind of crazy ingredient search, the betrayals and sinister romance and other matters that occur in the Frakenstein household are there to fill the void.
Overall, This Dark Endeavor is a fantastic prequel that probably would make Mary Shelley herself proud. Heart-stoppingly intense and engaging, This Dark Endeavor is sure to motivate tons of readers, like me, to introduce themselves to the classic that is Frankenstein. I definitely recommend you all pick this one up!
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to read a prequel? After a few great reviews from blogger friends, I relented and read this and wow - let's not get into how much I could've kicked myself.Unlike many others, I can't talk about how wonderfully this set up for Mary Shelley's original masterpiece and I can't talk about how everything matched up and worked out. But I can talk about how spectacular I thought this book was and how I have plans to get my hands on a copy of Frankenstein immediately.
This Dark Endeavor is 304 pages of dark, adventurous and gothic goodness. Kenneth Oppel didn't just write characters and words, he wrote a reading experience, one that is creepy and exciting. Even if this an unofficial prequel, it stands alone and honorable on all levels. Such as the characters; Victor is such a complex protagonist, even as a fifteen-year-old, and he's so amazingly written that I believed it. His posessive, jealous, and sometimes dark personality was so very authentic and chilling. I haven't even read Frankenstein, but even I can tell that Oppel nailed it.
And there is never a dull moment. The adventures that Victor, Henry and Elizabeth go on to secure ingredients needed to save his twin brother's life are all fast-paced, high on energy and intensity. And when they're not on some kind of crazy ingredient search, the betrayals and sinister romance and other matters that occur in the Frakenstein household are there to fill the void.
Overall, This Dark Endeavor is a fantastic prequel that probably would make Mary Shelley herself proud. Heart-stoppingly intense and engaging, This Dark Endeavor is sure to motivate tons of readers, like me, to introduce themselves to the classic that is Frankenstein. I definitely recommend you all pick this one up!
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LibraryThing member arkgirl1
This and its sequel - Such Wicked Intent: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein - promise to be great introductions to some of the themes explored in Frankenstein if this first book is anything to go by! We have the mixtures of: guilt and desire; love and jealousy; and knowledge and discovery -
The story begins with an introduction to the four young protaganists - twins Victor and Konrad, Elizabeth and Henry - and we quickly see the reckless side of Victor contrasted with the heroic Konrad. The twin relationship I found to be an interesting twist and slant that gives impetus for the story in this book but also hints at a motive for Victor's future ambitions. Konrad falls ill and the discovery of a Dark Library leads the others into Geneva in search of Julius Polidori, alchemist, with the derire to produce an 'elixir of life' to save Konrad's life.
I think this is a great book for both sexes as there are strong lead female and male characters but it is Victor's narrative voice that is key and opens us up to this flawed character who is a mess of love, jealousy and ambition. The romance angle provides an extra strand to the story but the pursuit of knowledge and the risks involved give the excitment that many young readers will find engrossing. Although 13+ is probably the obvious age group to enjoy this book it is accessible for advanced readers from 10/11 upwards and is good fun for those of an older age who enjoy YA fiction. I will certainly be adding the sequel to my 'to be bought' list and look forward to seeing how the story develops towards the classic Shelley tale.
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all of these are tempered for the teen audience the book is aimed at but it is an enjoyable yarn for those of us a little past our teens!! It has adventure, tension, emotion and some great characters as we explore what might have been the background and boyhood of the young Victor Frankenstein.The story begins with an introduction to the four young protaganists - twins Victor and Konrad, Elizabeth and Henry - and we quickly see the reckless side of Victor contrasted with the heroic Konrad. The twin relationship I found to be an interesting twist and slant that gives impetus for the story in this book but also hints at a motive for Victor's future ambitions. Konrad falls ill and the discovery of a Dark Library leads the others into Geneva in search of Julius Polidori, alchemist, with the derire to produce an 'elixir of life' to save Konrad's life.
I think this is a great book for both sexes as there are strong lead female and male characters but it is Victor's narrative voice that is key and opens us up to this flawed character who is a mess of love, jealousy and ambition. The romance angle provides an extra strand to the story but the pursuit of knowledge and the risks involved give the excitment that many young readers will find engrossing. Although 13+ is probably the obvious age group to enjoy this book it is accessible for advanced readers from 10/11 upwards and is good fun for those of an older age who enjoy YA fiction. I will certainly be adding the sequel to my 'to be bought' list and look forward to seeing how the story develops towards the classic Shelley tale.
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LibraryThing member Kevinspicks2011
Very disappointed...Oppel is a fine writer but the plot was plainly ridiculous. I found myself extremely annoyed at Victor and his attempts to save his brother's life, not to mention the unrequited love affair. The final ingredient of the Elixir of Life is beyond ridiculous. I was given a copy of
There were some nice touches eg the street Polidori lives on is called Wollestonekraft...a cap touch to Mary Shelley. However that was as good as it got.
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this pre-publication and looked forward to reading it but I won't be rushing out to read part 2 when it hits the bookshops.There were some nice touches eg the street Polidori lives on is called Wollestonekraft...a cap touch to Mary Shelley. However that was as good as it got.
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LibraryThing member mamzel
Kenneth Oppel sure can write a good adventure story involving both boys and girls. In this book the hero is a young Victor Frankenstein, twin brother to Konrad. Konrad is very ill and Victor tries to keep him alive by concocting an elixir from a recipe found in old books in his family castle's
Readers are treated to page-turning action as the trio dashes around the country side with faith, dedication and self-sacrifice to help Konrad. The story ends with the distinct possibility of a sequel or two.
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basement. Victor, his cousin, Elizabeth, and friend, Henry, take the books to Julius Polidori, a man rumored to have been involved in alchemy and who may be able to translate the recipe and create the elixir. Readers are treated to page-turning action as the trio dashes around the country side with faith, dedication and self-sacrifice to help Konrad. The story ends with the distinct possibility of a sequel or two.
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LibraryThing member VisVitaVeritas
This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel is a prequel to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. It tells the story of Victor Frankenstein as a teenage boy who begins to explore the dark sciences as a way to save his twin brother, Konrad's, life. Victor, Konrad, Elizabeth, their mutual love interest, and best
The book is incredible- really, really engrossing and full of adventure, mystery, romance, jealousy and darkness. I think it would be perfect to pair with Frankenstein in a booktalk, reading assignment, whatever. With a classic like Frankenstein that's been reimagined so often, especially in film, I think it's easy to imagine that we already know the story and that it's not worth reading, but reading This Dark Endeavor will make readers want to know more of the story and to compare Victor as a teen to Victor as an adult mad scientist.
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friend Henry share difficult choices and dangerous adventures as they fight to save Konrad's life and to discover who they really are. The book is incredible- really, really engrossing and full of adventure, mystery, romance, jealousy and darkness. I think it would be perfect to pair with Frankenstein in a booktalk, reading assignment, whatever. With a classic like Frankenstein that's been reimagined so often, especially in film, I think it's easy to imagine that we already know the story and that it's not worth reading, but reading This Dark Endeavor will make readers want to know more of the story and to compare Victor as a teen to Victor as an adult mad scientist.
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LibraryThing member SmithSJ01
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. It is the first in a duology acting as a prequel to Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’. Set in eighteenth-century Geneva, readers are introduced to the Frankenstein twins (Victor and Konrad) as children - two very different boys born just minutes apart.
The adventures that the three of them have, along with their friend Henry, are fantastic and with such evocative narrative they really come to life. All of the characters are very well written and the way in which the author has made it an accessible introduction to the Frankenstein story is great. I never particularly enjoyed reading Mary Shelley’s novel when I first approached it but perhaps after reading this story, along with the second prequel (Such Wicked Intent) it would be more enjoyable.
A brilliant story!
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They share their luxurious life with their cousin Elizabeth, whose appearance is explained early on in the novel. Konrad becomes sick and Victor dreams of being able to cure him, even more so after discovering the Dark Library hidden in a secret room. The adventures that the three of them have, along with their friend Henry, are fantastic and with such evocative narrative they really come to life. All of the characters are very well written and the way in which the author has made it an accessible introduction to the Frankenstein story is great. I never particularly enjoyed reading Mary Shelley’s novel when I first approached it but perhaps after reading this story, along with the second prequel (Such Wicked Intent) it would be more enjoyable.
A brilliant story!
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LibraryThing member TheRandomGirl
He's aliveee! Well, only in Kenneth Oppel's book anyway. And no, we're not talking about the modern-Prometheus-Frankenstein here. We're talking, the creator of Frankenstein--Victor Frankenstein. The young Victor Frankenstein way before Mary Shelley's original story. And I have to say, This Dark
True story, I haven't read Mary Shelley's Frankenstein nor have I seen any Frankenstein retellings around. I didn't plan to any time in near the future, anyway. But This Dark Endeavor captured my attention and Kenneth Oppel scores points for a unique and original story. The writing was exceptional and convinced me that this could in fact, be real and that I was in Geneva in the 18th century. I noticed though, that throughout the book "for" was used countless times.
I honestly don't know what I expected from This Dark Endeavor, but whatever I did, the book managed to exceed those expectations. I never thought This Dark Endeavor would take me on a joyride of emotions and not once did I think that the love triangle would be that bitter. It had me jumping from Victor to Konrad--both brothers whom I love. Konrad, effortlessly perfect, calm, attractive against his twin brother, Victor. Victor who has to work for everything, quick tempered, and flawed. Both brothers fight for the love for their distant cousin, the feisty Elizabeth, who is the only girl who dared to adventure with the Frankenstein brothers--plus Henry.
Victor Frankenstein was a character full of flaws. He was jealous, possessive, and compared to his brother, he was imperfect. He isn't always good, unlike his brother, but he strives to be. Most of the time, being compared to someone who looks exactly like you but is better than you, is a pain. And it drives Victor mad. Still, he took extreme measures to save his twin. Though flawed, Victor burns with passion and determination throughout the book and combining all three, passion, flaws, and determination Victor makes a relatable three-dimensional character.
Kenneth Oppel intricately spins the creepy, chilling, gothic, and suspenseful tale of the apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein, with twists that make you never put the book down. The ending had me in tears, and the only thing running through my mind at the end was, "This isn't the end. There has to be more."
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Endeavor is an unforgettable book.True story, I haven't read Mary Shelley's Frankenstein nor have I seen any Frankenstein retellings around. I didn't plan to any time in near the future, anyway. But This Dark Endeavor captured my attention and Kenneth Oppel scores points for a unique and original story. The writing was exceptional and convinced me that this could in fact, be real and that I was in Geneva in the 18th century. I noticed though, that throughout the book "for" was used countless times.
I honestly don't know what I expected from This Dark Endeavor, but whatever I did, the book managed to exceed those expectations. I never thought This Dark Endeavor would take me on a joyride of emotions and not once did I think that the love triangle would be that bitter. It had me jumping from Victor to Konrad--both brothers whom I love. Konrad, effortlessly perfect, calm, attractive against his twin brother, Victor. Victor who has to work for everything, quick tempered, and flawed. Both brothers fight for the love for their distant cousin, the feisty Elizabeth, who is the only girl who dared to adventure with the Frankenstein brothers--plus Henry.
Victor Frankenstein was a character full of flaws. He was jealous, possessive, and compared to his brother, he was imperfect. He isn't always good, unlike his brother, but he strives to be. Most of the time, being compared to someone who looks exactly like you but is better than you, is a pain. And it drives Victor mad. Still, he took extreme measures to save his twin. Though flawed, Victor burns with passion and determination throughout the book and combining all three, passion, flaws, and determination Victor makes a relatable three-dimensional character.
Kenneth Oppel intricately spins the creepy, chilling, gothic, and suspenseful tale of the apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein, with twists that make you never put the book down. The ending had me in tears, and the only thing running through my mind at the end was, "This isn't the end. There has to be more."
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LibraryThing member yearningtoread
This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel (The Dark Endeavor Chronicles #1)
Pages: 304
Release Date: August 23rd, 2011
Date Read: 2011, Oct. 25th-20th
Received: Library
Rating: 4/5 stars
Recommended to: 14+
SUMMARY -
Victor and Konrad Frankenstein are twins - together from birth, inseparable at any cost. They
MY THOUGHTS -
I love Kenneth Oppel. I love the way he writes, the way his characters spring to life, imperfections and all.
This Dark Endeavor shot up my reading list when I saw it. It was first in line, even with tons of stuff going on. I had to have it.
And it was totally awesome! Maybe not as memorable as the Matt Cruise books; maybe not as totally incredibly amazing - but wonderful all the same. Totally different, too. For a while, I wasn't sure what to rate it, but 4 stars feel right. While it didn't blow my mind, it was still so solid and right and good and just soooo well-written because you really can't expect otherwise from Kenneth Oppel.
CHARACTER NOTES -
Victor and Konrad were so perfect for each other and this book. Because not only are they twins ad best friends, but they are also, in a way, opposing forces.
Victor had a great leading role voice. The reason? He was a fool, lacking in wisdom and grace. And yet, I absolutely loved him. That Oppel was able to show Victor's immense stupidity without making the reader hate him is an incredible feat. Seeing Victor change throughout the book, whether for good or bad, was also something I could hold onto about Victor. I still think of him. HE was memorable, that's for sure.
Elizabeth and Henry were extraordinary; Elizabeth with her two sides, Henry with his fears and doubts. They were 3D and easy to relate to and totally different.
And Konrad. He's not a favorite, but he was indeed strong and valiant, at heart if not in body. If I had not cared for him, the drive to the story would have been lost. He was important, and I definitely value presence in the book.
STORY NOTES -
At first, I was incredibly intrigued. What would Oppel do with a retelling/prologue of Frankenstein's life? The first chapters were both startling and beautiful, as well as sad and foreboding. Then I got busy with life and couldn't read for two days and lost track of the story at a slower part...and it took a bit of shoving my way back in before I felt at home again. But as soon as I was, the story flew ahead and - wow.
It was crazy. The quests and feats they accomplished to get the three ingredients to the Elixir were intense and really revealed character strengths and weaknesses.
There were some very crazy twists in the end, and I was happy to find that Oppel delivered his usual - where just when you think things can't get any worse, they do. This happens for a few chapters and then - BAM! You're shocked by the final, climactic scene. I love Oppel for that, among other things.
Also -the love triangle. Woah! I've never read anything quite like that. Yikes! What will happen?!
SUMMING IT UP -
Bitter. Usually I don't use negative words to describe books I like, but it's so true. This book was full of bitterness - mixed with love, braver, passion, and madness. What a crazy combination - one that I heartily enjoyed - and even shed a tear over. Wow! Such Wicked Intent comes out late this summer and I'm SO EXCITED to read it!! :D
For the Parents -
Maybe one minor cuss word. Some passionate kisses; Victor sees Elizabeth's wild, passionate, side and feels something powerful towards her - love, surely, but also an animal-like lust which he tries to overcome. Non-explicit talk of a wedding night. Some very intense scenes (emotionally and physically). Recommended 14+
Pages: 304
Release Date: August 23rd, 2011
Date Read: 2011, Oct. 25th-20th
Received: Library
Rating: 4/5 stars
Recommended to: 14+
SUMMARY -
Victor and Konrad Frankenstein are twins - together from birth, inseparable at any cost. They
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are both the same in looks - and yet so completely different in personality, wisdom, and vision. When Konrad grows ill, and none of the doctors seem to be able to heal him, Victor decides to take the matter into his own hands. He wishes to create the Elixir of Life, to bring his brother to complete health again. With the help of his friends Elizabeth and Henry, Victor will risk everything to save his brother's life, before it's too late.MY THOUGHTS -
I love Kenneth Oppel. I love the way he writes, the way his characters spring to life, imperfections and all.
This Dark Endeavor shot up my reading list when I saw it. It was first in line, even with tons of stuff going on. I had to have it.
And it was totally awesome! Maybe not as memorable as the Matt Cruise books; maybe not as totally incredibly amazing - but wonderful all the same. Totally different, too. For a while, I wasn't sure what to rate it, but 4 stars feel right. While it didn't blow my mind, it was still so solid and right and good and just soooo well-written because you really can't expect otherwise from Kenneth Oppel.
CHARACTER NOTES -
Victor and Konrad were so perfect for each other and this book. Because not only are they twins ad best friends, but they are also, in a way, opposing forces.
Victor had a great leading role voice. The reason? He was a fool, lacking in wisdom and grace. And yet, I absolutely loved him. That Oppel was able to show Victor's immense stupidity without making the reader hate him is an incredible feat. Seeing Victor change throughout the book, whether for good or bad, was also something I could hold onto about Victor. I still think of him. HE was memorable, that's for sure.
Elizabeth and Henry were extraordinary; Elizabeth with her two sides, Henry with his fears and doubts. They were 3D and easy to relate to and totally different.
And Konrad. He's not a favorite, but he was indeed strong and valiant, at heart if not in body. If I had not cared for him, the drive to the story would have been lost. He was important, and I definitely value presence in the book.
STORY NOTES -
At first, I was incredibly intrigued. What would Oppel do with a retelling/prologue of Frankenstein's life? The first chapters were both startling and beautiful, as well as sad and foreboding. Then I got busy with life and couldn't read for two days and lost track of the story at a slower part...and it took a bit of shoving my way back in before I felt at home again. But as soon as I was, the story flew ahead and - wow.
It was crazy. The quests and feats they accomplished to get the three ingredients to the Elixir were intense and really revealed character strengths and weaknesses.
There were some very crazy twists in the end, and I was happy to find that Oppel delivered his usual - where just when you think things can't get any worse, they do. This happens for a few chapters and then - BAM! You're shocked by the final, climactic scene. I love Oppel for that, among other things.
Also -the love triangle. Woah! I've never read anything quite like that. Yikes! What will happen?!
SUMMING IT UP -
Bitter. Usually I don't use negative words to describe books I like, but it's so true. This book was full of bitterness - mixed with love, braver, passion, and madness. What a crazy combination - one that I heartily enjoyed - and even shed a tear over. Wow! Such Wicked Intent comes out late this summer and I'm SO EXCITED to read it!! :D
For the Parents -
Maybe one minor cuss word. Some passionate kisses; Victor sees Elizabeth's wild, passionate, side and feels something powerful towards her - love, surely, but also an animal-like lust which he tries to overcome. Non-explicit talk of a wedding night. Some very intense scenes (emotionally and physically). Recommended 14+
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LibraryThing member thebumblegirl
A forbidden secret library. Adventure. A love triangle. Suspense.
The quest to find the ingredients to the elixir of life...
What an amazing prequel to Mary Shelley's classic, Frankenstein -
Victor is your typical 15 year old teen boy, everything seems to be fun and games until something serious and
He enlists his twin brother, Konrad, their 'distant' cousin, Elizabeth, and family friend, Henry, on an adventure never to be forgotten.
Yes, there is a bit of a love triangle going on, but it is done so perfectly that you will not lose the pace of the story, nor be distracted by it either.
There were a few 'gasp-out-loud' moments where I had to will the images out of my head - but I am squeamish, lol, and those who are not, will love every single detail of their journey.
This is a definite 'buzz-worthy' must read!
The quest to find the ingredients to the elixir of life...
What an amazing prequel to Mary Shelley's classic, Frankenstein -
Victor is your typical 15 year old teen boy, everything seems to be fun and games until something serious and
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life-changing happens and Victor must decide if doing the wrong thing is actually the right thing to do.He enlists his twin brother, Konrad, their 'distant' cousin, Elizabeth, and family friend, Henry, on an adventure never to be forgotten.
Yes, there is a bit of a love triangle going on, but it is done so perfectly that you will not lose the pace of the story, nor be distracted by it either.
There were a few 'gasp-out-loud' moments where I had to will the images out of my head - but I am squeamish, lol, and those who are not, will love every single detail of their journey.
This is a definite 'buzz-worthy' must read!
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LibraryThing member BookAddictDiary
They might as well rename this "the younger years of Victor Frankenstein" because that's basically the idea.
In This Dark Endeavor, author Kenneth Oppel tackles the unknown younger years of the mad scientist behind one of the best known horror stories of all time. For some strange reason, I knew
Victor and his twin brother Konrad have been inseparable their entire lives. Along with their beautiful cousin Elizabeth, the trio have spent much of their lives going on adventures. But their carefree youth comes to a grinding halt when they stumble upon a Dark Library filled with forbidden texts about alchemy and other ancient medicines. Even though Victor and the others are forbidden from returning, Victor is drawn back to the Library when Konrad becomes strangely ill with a disease that has no cure. To save Konrad, Victor and Elizabeth team up with their friend Henry to unleash an ancient alchemy.
This book is incredible. Just completely, absolutely incredible. The writing is vivid, sharp and powerful. The plot is engaging and fits perfectly into the Frankenstein mythos. But most importantly, the characters leaped off the page, especially Victor. I was wondering how another author could possibly re-create that mad scientist, and Oppel does it perfectly. Victor is a powerful character with believable motivations and realistic passions and obsessions. And even though I didn't really like Victor, I understood him. It's nearly impossible for any author to do this so well, and even though it's been a long time since I've read the original Frankenstein, Victor seemed like a much more sympathetic character here.
Even though this book was a little slow at the beginning, I was on the edge of my seat by the end. The tight action combined with overwhelming emotion kept the tension high for much of the latter half of the book. It's been a long time since I've read something ingrained with so much passion and emotion, and I was hooked up until the very end.
In This Dark Endeavor, author Kenneth Oppel tackles the unknown younger years of the mad scientist behind one of the best known horror stories of all time. For some strange reason, I knew
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absolutely nothing about this book prior to winning it from blog giveaway, so I went into it with virtually no expectations. What I found was something completely incredible that will change your view of the classic Frankenstein story.Victor and his twin brother Konrad have been inseparable their entire lives. Along with their beautiful cousin Elizabeth, the trio have spent much of their lives going on adventures. But their carefree youth comes to a grinding halt when they stumble upon a Dark Library filled with forbidden texts about alchemy and other ancient medicines. Even though Victor and the others are forbidden from returning, Victor is drawn back to the Library when Konrad becomes strangely ill with a disease that has no cure. To save Konrad, Victor and Elizabeth team up with their friend Henry to unleash an ancient alchemy.
This book is incredible. Just completely, absolutely incredible. The writing is vivid, sharp and powerful. The plot is engaging and fits perfectly into the Frankenstein mythos. But most importantly, the characters leaped off the page, especially Victor. I was wondering how another author could possibly re-create that mad scientist, and Oppel does it perfectly. Victor is a powerful character with believable motivations and realistic passions and obsessions. And even though I didn't really like Victor, I understood him. It's nearly impossible for any author to do this so well, and even though it's been a long time since I've read the original Frankenstein, Victor seemed like a much more sympathetic character here.
Even though this book was a little slow at the beginning, I was on the edge of my seat by the end. The tight action combined with overwhelming emotion kept the tension high for much of the latter half of the book. It's been a long time since I've read something ingrained with so much passion and emotion, and I was hooked up until the very end.
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LibraryThing member FionaCat
Victor and his twin brother Konrad have a good life in the Frankenstein family chateau on the shores of Lake Geneva. Their parents are loving and open-minded, the servants are part of the family, and they are getting a wonderful education from their father and other tutors. Even their distant
The chateau is an old building, full of secrets passages and dungeons. The cousins discover a hidden library full of books on alchemy, which their father forbids them to visit again. But when Konrad falls ill with a mysterious disease and none of the doctors seem to able to heal him, Victor returns to the Dark Library in search of a cure for his brother.
With the help of a dubious alchemist in town, Victor, Elizabeth and their friend Henry begin a quest to gather the ingredients for the magical Elixir of Life. It is dangerous, but Victor is determined to save his brother’s life. During the quest, he discovers his romantic feelings for Elizabeth … and has to deal with the fact that she is already in love with Konrad. Is the mysterious Polidori really on their side? Can the friends find the ingredients for the elixir without losing their own lives? What will Victor have to sacrifice for his brother? And can Konrad’s life really be saved?
Victor Frankenstein is, of course, the main character of Mary Shelley’s classic novel Frankenstein. This book gives us a glimpse at his life before he created the famous monster (and by the way, the monster’s name is not Frankenstein … it doesn’t have a name at all).
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cousin, Elizabeth, shares in their schooling, something quite rare at a time when France was in the throes of a revolution.The chateau is an old building, full of secrets passages and dungeons. The cousins discover a hidden library full of books on alchemy, which their father forbids them to visit again. But when Konrad falls ill with a mysterious disease and none of the doctors seem to able to heal him, Victor returns to the Dark Library in search of a cure for his brother.
With the help of a dubious alchemist in town, Victor, Elizabeth and their friend Henry begin a quest to gather the ingredients for the magical Elixir of Life. It is dangerous, but Victor is determined to save his brother’s life. During the quest, he discovers his romantic feelings for Elizabeth … and has to deal with the fact that she is already in love with Konrad. Is the mysterious Polidori really on their side? Can the friends find the ingredients for the elixir without losing their own lives? What will Victor have to sacrifice for his brother? And can Konrad’s life really be saved?
Victor Frankenstein is, of course, the main character of Mary Shelley’s classic novel Frankenstein. This book gives us a glimpse at his life before he created the famous monster (and by the way, the monster’s name is not Frankenstein … it doesn’t have a name at all).
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LibraryThing member Sullywriter
This "prequel" to Frankenstein features fifteen-year-old Victor, twin brother Konrad, cousin Elizabeth, friend Henry, and a Dr. Polidori who resides on Wollstonekraft Street with a pet lynx. Clever, exciting, suspenseful, and completely engrossing.
LibraryThing member book_zone
I first stumbled across Mr Oppel's work through his brilliant Airborn (and sequels), and when I discovered that his writing talent was now being focused on a prequel to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein how could I be anything but very excited?
This excitement was not misplaced. I had expected a dark,
This Dark Endeavour tells the story of young Victor Frankenstein and his twin brother, Konrad. Just as with many twins, the two boys differ in personality quite considerably: Konrad is the laid-back, confident one who seems to be good at everything he lends his hand to, whilst Victor often feels in his shadow. This feeling of inadequacy grows even more in Victor's mind when he discovers that his growing love for his cousin Elizabeth is not reciprocated, and instead she and Konrad are fast becoming an item. Despite their differences though, Victor and Konrad and very close and when Konrad falls dangerously ill with some mysterious condition Victor will do anything to try to make in better.
I am not an expert on the period in which the story is set so I am not able to comment on the accuracy of the author's historical detailing. However, accurate or not, the quality of his prose gave me a very real sense of being there in eighteenth century Switzerland. It was a time when science, religion and superstition were 'battling it out' for supremacy in the minds of many of the inhabitants of Europe, and despite the massive leaps that were being made in the various fields of science there was still a belief by some in the ancient study of alchemy. Early on in the story Victor stumbles across a hidden 'Dark Library' within the family home, a room lined with shelves full of mysterious, heretical and potentially dangerous books. When it seems that no doctor is able to cure his brother, it is to one of these such books that he turns, and from this moment the story starts to be engulfed by a sinister darkness.
To outline the adventures that Victor embarks upon in search of the ingredients he requires in order that a potion can be made would be to spoil the story for you. There are moments where you would be hiding behind a cushion if this were a film or TV drama, but where another author may have created a little more blood splatter, Oppel relies purely on his ability to get into the minds of his readers, much as Mary Shelley did with her original story. In fact, on finishing this I immediately re-read her story (yet again), and with this as a comparison I felt that Mr Oppel had done a great job of protraying the voice of the young Victor Frankenstein.
If you want something a little more challenging and psychologically scary than the likes of Higson and Shan for your Hallowe'en reading (or for that matter at any time of the year) then you really should give this book a try. I believe it is the first book in a pair of stories, and I for one am really looking forward to seeing where Mr Oppel takes us next.
This excitement was not misplaced. I had expected a dark,
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gothic horror-based story but instead I got so much more. The horror element is more psychological than most stories of this genre written for teens these days - rather than gore it relies on steadily building tension through some pretty dark scenes, interwoven between scenes of pure action and adventure, with a smattering of romance thrown in for good measure. However, for those of you who hate the 'R' word it is an essential part of the story, and anyway it is certainly not the sort of romance that will have boys throwing the book across the room in despair.This Dark Endeavour tells the story of young Victor Frankenstein and his twin brother, Konrad. Just as with many twins, the two boys differ in personality quite considerably: Konrad is the laid-back, confident one who seems to be good at everything he lends his hand to, whilst Victor often feels in his shadow. This feeling of inadequacy grows even more in Victor's mind when he discovers that his growing love for his cousin Elizabeth is not reciprocated, and instead she and Konrad are fast becoming an item. Despite their differences though, Victor and Konrad and very close and when Konrad falls dangerously ill with some mysterious condition Victor will do anything to try to make in better.
I am not an expert on the period in which the story is set so I am not able to comment on the accuracy of the author's historical detailing. However, accurate or not, the quality of his prose gave me a very real sense of being there in eighteenth century Switzerland. It was a time when science, religion and superstition were 'battling it out' for supremacy in the minds of many of the inhabitants of Europe, and despite the massive leaps that were being made in the various fields of science there was still a belief by some in the ancient study of alchemy. Early on in the story Victor stumbles across a hidden 'Dark Library' within the family home, a room lined with shelves full of mysterious, heretical and potentially dangerous books. When it seems that no doctor is able to cure his brother, it is to one of these such books that he turns, and from this moment the story starts to be engulfed by a sinister darkness.
To outline the adventures that Victor embarks upon in search of the ingredients he requires in order that a potion can be made would be to spoil the story for you. There are moments where you would be hiding behind a cushion if this were a film or TV drama, but where another author may have created a little more blood splatter, Oppel relies purely on his ability to get into the minds of his readers, much as Mary Shelley did with her original story. In fact, on finishing this I immediately re-read her story (yet again), and with this as a comparison I felt that Mr Oppel had done a great job of protraying the voice of the young Victor Frankenstein.
If you want something a little more challenging and psychologically scary than the likes of Higson and Shan for your Hallowe'en reading (or for that matter at any time of the year) then you really should give this book a try. I believe it is the first book in a pair of stories, and I for one am really looking forward to seeing where Mr Oppel takes us next.
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LibraryThing member passion4reading
Subtitled 'The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein', this first volume in a duology strives to explain how Victor Frankenstein was set on the dark path that led to his creating the monster. It does so very successfully, and I couldn't help wondering why no one else had come up with this idea
This book introduces the reader to the 16-year-old Frankenstein twins, Victor and Konrad, who live in the ancestral chateau bordering Lake Geneva in Switzerland. When Konrad falls dangerously ill, and fearing that conventional (i.e. late 18th century) medicine will not yield any results, Victor, his cousin Elizabeth, and their friend Henry resort to a medieval alchemical recipe for the so-called Elixir of Life (the dark endeavour of the title) to save his life.
This is a novel clearly written with teenagers and young adults in mind, but which will equally appeal to adults who may, or may not (as in my case) have read the original by Mary Shelley. It deals with very adult emotions, so I would be reluctant to recommend it to anyone under the age of twelve.
Written as a first-person narrative from Victor's point of view, we witness the complicated relationship between Victor and his brother that is characterised by love, competitiveness and envy, and which is in danger of being poisoned by Victor's unrequited love for Elizabeth, because she is already in love with Konrad. Victor is a very complex character, full of contradictions, filled with passion and ambition, but also capable of merciless self-analysis. As we delve deeper into the novel, we discover a dark undercurrent running through his thoughts and actions, but thanks to the skill of the author, this progressively secretive and devious side is entirely plausible and a logical follow-on from the carefree young man we encountered at the beginning of the book. The prose is fluent and atmospheric, with some of the set pieces (like the Dark Library, the Sturmwald, the alchemist Polidori's underground laboratory and the caves beneath the Jura Mountains) especially memorable. Here the writing becomes gripping in the extreme, propelling the reader forward to a breathless conclusion. As well as the surroundings, the characters inhabiting this gothic tale are also marvellously well drawn: the Frankenstein twins, of course, but also their parents, steeped in reason, the gentle and yet so passionate distant cousin Elizabeth, the loyal friend Henry with his love of poetry but fear of heights and claustrophobia, the creepy physician Dr Murnau, and last but not least the alchemist Julius Polidori in his strange laboratory with a pet lynx.
Whilst I was reading, I could picture everything in perfect clarity, and participate in the characters' hope and despair in trying to cure Konrad. I would not be in the least surprised if some producer didn't recognize the novel's potential and turn it into a feature film before long. Until then, I can console myself with the thought that the sequel has already been commissioned. I can't wait.
(This review was originally written as part of Amazon's Vine programme.)
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before.This book introduces the reader to the 16-year-old Frankenstein twins, Victor and Konrad, who live in the ancestral chateau bordering Lake Geneva in Switzerland. When Konrad falls dangerously ill, and fearing that conventional (i.e. late 18th century) medicine will not yield any results, Victor, his cousin Elizabeth, and their friend Henry resort to a medieval alchemical recipe for the so-called Elixir of Life (the dark endeavour of the title) to save his life.
This is a novel clearly written with teenagers and young adults in mind, but which will equally appeal to adults who may, or may not (as in my case) have read the original by Mary Shelley. It deals with very adult emotions, so I would be reluctant to recommend it to anyone under the age of twelve.
Written as a first-person narrative from Victor's point of view, we witness the complicated relationship between Victor and his brother that is characterised by love, competitiveness and envy, and which is in danger of being poisoned by Victor's unrequited love for Elizabeth, because she is already in love with Konrad. Victor is a very complex character, full of contradictions, filled with passion and ambition, but also capable of merciless self-analysis. As we delve deeper into the novel, we discover a dark undercurrent running through his thoughts and actions, but thanks to the skill of the author, this progressively secretive and devious side is entirely plausible and a logical follow-on from the carefree young man we encountered at the beginning of the book. The prose is fluent and atmospheric, with some of the set pieces (like the Dark Library, the Sturmwald, the alchemist Polidori's underground laboratory and the caves beneath the Jura Mountains) especially memorable. Here the writing becomes gripping in the extreme, propelling the reader forward to a breathless conclusion. As well as the surroundings, the characters inhabiting this gothic tale are also marvellously well drawn: the Frankenstein twins, of course, but also their parents, steeped in reason, the gentle and yet so passionate distant cousin Elizabeth, the loyal friend Henry with his love of poetry but fear of heights and claustrophobia, the creepy physician Dr Murnau, and last but not least the alchemist Julius Polidori in his strange laboratory with a pet lynx.
Whilst I was reading, I could picture everything in perfect clarity, and participate in the characters' hope and despair in trying to cure Konrad. I would not be in the least surprised if some producer didn't recognize the novel's potential and turn it into a feature film before long. Until then, I can console myself with the thought that the sequel has already been commissioned. I can't wait.
(This review was originally written as part of Amazon's Vine programme.)
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LibraryThing member Reesa111
I loved this book~ I read in two days- it was a simple read but I'm lovin the story line. This book was hard to put down. I bought a used copy on Amazon and I loved it so much I'm going to purchase a brand new copy. I already have pre-ordered the second book in the series. I can not wait to receive
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the book to carry on with this wonderful story. I will follow this series as far as it goes. I also loved the writing style in this book so I will be looking forward to trying other books also from Kenneth Oppel. Five stars all the way~ This is my second favorite read this year for 2012 now. I'm sure you all know what this story follows- and I can only say I'm impressed with this very well written book. Show Less
LibraryThing member 4sarad
I tried for over two weeks, but I just couldn't read this book. I loved the concept (Frankenstein in his teens), I loved the cover, and I heard Oppel is a great author. Nope. Just didn't do it for me. I stopped at page 123. I was halfway through the book and nothing had happened at all. Someone got
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sick, and they decided to look for a cure using ancient alchemy. That could be a good plot, but it was all so slow and tedious! It just really wasn't for me. Show Less
LibraryThing member roxyrolla
Wow, what a thrill! I took my time with this book, as I had a bunch of others on the go as well, but I am sure glad I stuck with it! Twists that had me gasping, and the ending caught me by surprise! I loved that Victor was so flawed, too - he seemed very true to what I remember of Mary Shelley's
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character. Can't wait for the movie, I just hope they don't muck it up! Show Less
LibraryThing member amandacb
Yes, the book is a bit slow, but the premise is fantastic and I thought it was really well-written. Victor as a teenager is exactly as I imagined him to be, but it was great to actually get to read about it.
LibraryThing member elissajanine
This Dark Endeavor is a pacy, high-tension adventure story with some excellently subtle and believable character development. The writing was strong, and I enjoyed the gothic tone and imagery. Having read Shelley's Frankenstein adds another layer to the book, but teens who are only a little
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familiar with the Frankenstein tale will still enjoy This Dark Endeavor because it holds its own with a strong plot and lots of excitement. Show Less
LibraryThing member akmargie
I'm torn on this one. I liked the story, very different and interesting and you can see the research Oppel put into creating the setting and the time period. But I didn't love it as much as his other titles. Which I'm okay with. I like that Viktor is a complicated protagonist, an anti-hero really.
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In a post-Harry Potter world too many YA guy characters are noble and goody good. Which gets tiring. Looking forward to the rest of the series since the ending was somewhat abrupt. Show Less
Subjects
Awards
Governor General's Literary Award (Finalist — 2011)
Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — Intermediate — 2014)
Bram Stoker Award (Nominee — Young Adult Novel — 2011)
Iowa Teen Award (Nominee — 2014)
Green Mountain Book Award (Nominee — 2014)
Thumbs Up! Award (Honor — 2012)
Grand Canyon Reader Award (Nominee — 2014)
Canadian Library Association Young Adult Book Award (Honour Book — 2012)
Arkansas Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2013)
Libris Award (Winner — 2012)
Red Maple Award (Nominee — Fiction — 2013)
Virginia Readers' Choice (Nominee — High School — 2014)
Milwaukee County Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2012)
Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People (Shortlist — 2012)
Evergreen Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2014)
Isinglass Teen Read Award (Nominee — 2013)
The Willow Awards (Finalist — 2012)
IODE Violet Downey Book Award (Finalist — 2012)
Manitoba Young Reader’s Choice Award (Nominee — 2013)
Best Fiction for Young Adults (Selection — 2012)
OYAN Book Rave (2012)
Texas Lone Star Reading List (2012)
Language
Original publication date
2011-08
ISBN
9781442403154