Father of Frankenstein

This novel is reminiscent of such films as SUNSET BOULEVARD and WHATEVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE. The story concerns the last days of has-been director James Whale who in his prime had directed the films SHOW BOAT and THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN, among other hits. In 1957 he was a virtual recluse in his expensive Hollywood home, despondent after suffering a stoke. His death by drowning in his swimming pool was ruled an accident,... Read Full Review

Christopher Bram does it again with yet another brilliant novel. The depth and the intelligence of this book and his ability to bring the characters so alive shows his ability as a novelist. If you only read one or a couple of books a year make it this one.Highly Recommended indeed.

In "Father of Frankenstein" author Christopher Bram presents a mesmerizing account of the last days of Hollywood (and British) film director James Whale. Bram's book provided the basis of "Gods and Monsters," a 1998 film which drew critical praise as well. Bram provides us with an insider's view of Whale's life--itself something of a horror story. His turbulent life--and lifestyle--haunted him until his death in 1957 (an... Read Full Review

Bram brilliantly creates a sense of place, time, and states of mind, as he weaves a piece of luminous fiction that is spookily believable and profound. Time in this work is a fluid commodity, ranging from the 1950's to the turn of the century, reflecting the dreamy fugues produced by James Whale's stroke-affected brain, where memory has gone berserk. Nota Bene: Hollywood in the 30's has never been so beautifully captured... Read Full Review