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thebisexualbooknerd's review against another edition
4.0
Although I ravenously devoured Baggott's children's books as a kid, I haven't so much as thought of her work since middle school. When I saw her section at the library, I thought it was about time I checked out her adult publications. This may have been a mistake.
Don't get me wrong, I gave The Madam four stars and don't regret it. The writing was impeccable, the characters were (mostly) interesting, and for the most part I enjoyed it. So why did I feel like something highly important was missing?
It is possible (although not probable) that my disgruntlement stems from the ending. That was hands-down the strangest, most out of place culmination I've ever had the misfortune to encounter. After that event, the last few pages kind of floated away and the whole book made even less sense than ever. However, the reason I say it isn't probable my disquiet was born from the end is that I had the feeling throughout the whole book. From page one I had this restless, uncomfortable feeling, like someone was looking over my shoulder. I've wracked my brain to think what was wrong, and I can't figure it out. Something was missing. I couldn't tell you what it was, or why it was so darn important, but I vouch fully for the fact that it wasn't there.
Aside from that, I can't formulate much else. As I said, the writing was nice and Alma was deep and original. The time period was well-chosen and well-researched. It certainly wasn't a bad read, but I just can't shake that annoying, eerie feeling that Baggott forgot something.
Don't get me wrong, I gave The Madam four stars and don't regret it. The writing was impeccable, the characters were (mostly) interesting, and for the most part I enjoyed it. So why did I feel like something highly important was missing?
It is possible (although not probable) that my disgruntlement stems from the ending. That was hands-down the strangest, most out of place culmination I've ever had the misfortune to encounter. After that event, the last few pages kind of floated away and the whole book made even less sense than ever. However, the reason I say it isn't probable my disquiet was born from the end is that I had the feeling throughout the whole book. From page one I had this restless, uncomfortable feeling, like someone was looking over my shoulder. I've wracked my brain to think what was wrong, and I can't figure it out. Something was missing. I couldn't tell you what it was, or why it was so darn important, but I vouch fully for the fact that it wasn't there.
Aside from that, I can't formulate much else. As I said, the writing was nice and Alma was deep and original. The time period was well-chosen and well-researched. It certainly wasn't a bad read, but I just can't shake that annoying, eerie feeling that Baggott forgot something.
thebookishbabbler's review
4.0
I have mixed emotions on this one. While I loved the plot and the writing I dont really feel connected to the characters? I love how this is based on the authors own family history and it was dark and upsetting and emotional. But that doesnt quite make up for the lack of character depth. That aside I recommend this for fans of historical fiction with a harsh edge.
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