What do you think?
Rate this book
Emma Madison, Master Meddler
When she ran away in 1947, Jasmine Holmes was young and beautiful. Now she's home sick, broke, divorced, her life in ruins—a perfect project for her aunt Emma Madison, master meddler. But small-town secrets live long in darkness, and the ones Jasmine guards may be the darkest of all.How to fix Jasmine? True, her reputation as the town tramp was well deserved. When she fled tiny Medford for Las Vegas nine years ago, it was in a cloud of scandal. Once Emma rescues Jasmine from a hospital bed and her niece's eight-year-old daughter from foster care, few townsfolk welcome her return. And when Jasmine recovers and begins nursing the dying wife of her once-supposed lover, Medford erupts in a veritable volcano of gossip.Lovers from a decade ago appear, then a new suitor. Soon emotions of desire, jealousy, spite and fear roil the once-peaceful community. During her brief stay, Jasmine sets the lives of many on trajectories they never could have expected. And although her own journey may be long and arduous, love and joy wait at the end, thanks to an elderly lady with the remarkable ability to take things gone wrong and set them to rights. Subtly influencing the course of events—watching, waiting, and then pulling the strings with perfect timing—is Jasmine's sage and savvy aunt, the redoubtable Emma Madison.
601 pages, Paperback
Published March 15, 2024
About the author
Pat McDermott Michener
1 book6 followersHave you ever heard of something and thought: "Wow! What a story!" or, "Wouldn't this make a good story?"
In “Emma Madison, Master Meddler", I've stitched together many such stories from a long and interesting life. Fame and fortune are not the reason I wrote this novel. It was because, after bits, pieces and then large chunks of it assembled in my mind, the two main characters - Emma Madison and her niece, Jasmine Holmes - nagged me endlessly to do it! So, it was not so much a project as an itch that needed scratching, with the result being a book.
My background is journalism. You'll laugh when you hear the name of my first employer once I graduated from university! It was a nation-wide newspaper for teenagers called "Canadian High News". After some gentle persuasion they changed the name, and I changed jobs. It was clear that working on newspapers or magazines was not for me because, for a newbie, there was little money in it. I switched to public relations (called "the dark side" by reporters and editors, which I was formerly).
After some years learning the ropes, I started Toronto corporate communications firm MarketLink Communications with a business partner. Our firm had a successful run for 25 years, with major clients and many small firms we helped to grow. And during all this time I wrote and wrote: speeches, magazine and newspaper articles, employee and consumer communications, videos, reports and more, most every working day. You can see how it might get to be a habit!
When I wrote "Emma Madison" I was guided by a quote from author/journalist Mark Bourrie. He wrote, “I see no point in writing a book that doesn’t tell a good story, or one that is not driven by fascinating characters.”
So I have done my very best to ensure that “Emma” is not only a novel strong on plot and full of memorable characters, but a good and satisfying read. And as the reader, you will be the final judge of that.
I have three amazing and talented adult children, Carl, Greg and Julia, and live happily on a 65-acre farm overlooking Georgian Bay where I am at work on my next novel.
In “Emma Madison, Master Meddler", I've stitched together many such stories from a long and interesting life. Fame and fortune are not the reason I wrote this novel. It was because, after bits, pieces and then large chunks of it assembled in my mind, the two main characters - Emma Madison and her niece, Jasmine Holmes - nagged me endlessly to do it! So, it was not so much a project as an itch that needed scratching, with the result being a book.
My background is journalism. You'll laugh when you hear the name of my first employer once I graduated from university! It was a nation-wide newspaper for teenagers called "Canadian High News". After some gentle persuasion they changed the name, and I changed jobs. It was clear that working on newspapers or magazines was not for me because, for a newbie, there was little money in it. I switched to public relations (called "the dark side" by reporters and editors, which I was formerly).
After some years learning the ropes, I started Toronto corporate communications firm MarketLink Communications with a business partner. Our firm had a successful run for 25 years, with major clients and many small firms we helped to grow. And during all this time I wrote and wrote: speeches, magazine and newspaper articles, employee and consumer communications, videos, reports and more, most every working day. You can see how it might get to be a habit!
When I wrote "Emma Madison" I was guided by a quote from author/journalist Mark Bourrie. He wrote, “I see no point in writing a book that doesn’t tell a good story, or one that is not driven by fascinating characters.”
So I have done my very best to ensure that “Emma” is not only a novel strong on plot and full of memorable characters, but a good and satisfying read. And as the reader, you will be the final judge of that.
I have three amazing and talented adult children, Carl, Greg and Julia, and live happily on a 65-acre farm overlooking Georgian Bay where I am at work on my next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 31, 2024
Well, I went in knowing it was 708 pages, and came out the other side...so all is good! The chapters were short, so it didn't seem as daunting, although there are 121 of them. That being said, this was a very enjoyable read. It really gives a great depiction of what life in a small town in the 1950's must have been like. And Emma Madison, isn't so much a Master Meddler, as she is a Master Manipulator. Life back then was all about the appearance of living a scandal free life and doing what was expected of you. Of course, that is all smoke and mirrors, but it is how life was lived. This was the time of party lines, so everyone knew your business. Gossip was the main activity and just part of socializing. And heaven forbid you do something untoward!! Emma is so charming in the way she goes about getting people to do things and moving all the players on the chessboard. But, she is so kind and good hearted. Nothing she does is with malice. I loved watching out how all these characters intertwined and their lives played out.
September 9, 2024
Small town gossip and rumors have such a powerful impact. In the book “Emma Madison, Master Meddler, Emma finds herself in a position she doesn’t exactly want but can’t say ‘No’ to. She has to bring her niece, Jasmine, home from a mental facility to recover. She is also bringing her great niece from foster care. When Jasmine left the small town behind, she also left lots of tongues wagging. She was accused of having an affair. But now she’s back home. Her aunt, Emma tries to soften her return by putting a different spin on the story. And there is another person that comes to Jasmine’s rescue…the wife of the man she had the affair with.
There is so much heart in this touching story. I found myself carried away by the small town of Medford, as well as the strength and determination of two strong women, who were determined to give Jasmine and her daughter a second chance. I didn’t want to put this book down. There were so many ‘behind the scenes’ shenanigans that I found myself laughing out loud. But there was also sobering moments that gave the reader pause, and made them think.
There is so much heart in this touching story. I found myself carried away by the small town of Medford, as well as the strength and determination of two strong women, who were determined to give Jasmine and her daughter a second chance. I didn’t want to put this book down. There were so many ‘behind the scenes’ shenanigans that I found myself laughing out loud. But there was also sobering moments that gave the reader pause, and made them think.
May 26, 2024
Emma Madison is the resident meddler in a small town, and has a gift for solving problems. Which is just as well, since her niece, the scandalous Jasmine, has now returned to Medford, after leaving it under a cloud 9 years prior to that for the sinful city of Las Vegas.
Jasmine has fallen on hard times, so it is Aunt Emma who must rescue her young daughter from foster care and nurse Jasmine herself back to health. But small towns have long memories and Jasmine does herself no favours in that regard, choosing to inevitably court attention by looking after the ailing wife of her alleged one-time lover.
Not to mention, Jasmine's return brings with her a long held secret of the "best to let sleeping dogs lie" variety. Fortunately, Emma has everything worked out...
This was a really enjoyable story, with a wonderful protagonist in Emma.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Jasmine has fallen on hard times, so it is Aunt Emma who must rescue her young daughter from foster care and nurse Jasmine herself back to health. But small towns have long memories and Jasmine does herself no favours in that regard, choosing to inevitably court attention by looking after the ailing wife of her alleged one-time lover.
Not to mention, Jasmine's return brings with her a long held secret of the "best to let sleeping dogs lie" variety. Fortunately, Emma has everything worked out...
This was a really enjoyable story, with a wonderful protagonist in Emma.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 26, 2025
What an unforgettable experience. Emma Madison is not just a book; it’s a journey through the complexity of womanhood, aging, love lost and found, and how one woman’s will can reshape the lives around her. From the very first chapter, I was invested in Emma’s quiet intuition that life was about to change—and wow, was it ever.
The multi-generational narrative offered rich insight into not only Emma's life but also Jasmine’s and Laura’s. Jasmine’s personal growth, from a troubled, chaotic mother to someone on a path of redemption, was especially moving. Medford itself is painted vividly, its social hierarchy and gossip culture so eerily realistic I felt like I was there, sipping tea and eavesdropping on the town meetings.
This book will resonate with anyone who has felt like an outsider or fought to reclaim their dignity. I recommend it to readers of Anne Tyler, Elizabeth Strout, or Alice Munro. Thank you, Patricia, for a book I’ll reread many times.
The multi-generational narrative offered rich insight into not only Emma's life but also Jasmine’s and Laura’s. Jasmine’s personal growth, from a troubled, chaotic mother to someone on a path of redemption, was especially moving. Medford itself is painted vividly, its social hierarchy and gossip culture so eerily realistic I felt like I was there, sipping tea and eavesdropping on the town meetings.
This book will resonate with anyone who has felt like an outsider or fought to reclaim their dignity. I recommend it to readers of Anne Tyler, Elizabeth Strout, or Alice Munro. Thank you, Patricia, for a book I’ll reread many times.
March 13, 2026
This novel is a deeply emotional story about second chances and the complicated nature of small-town life. Jasmine Holmes is a wonderfully layered character whose journey from scandal to redemption feels both authentic and moving. The author does an excellent job portraying the harsh judgment that often exists in tight-knit communities, while also showing the power of compassion and forgiveness. What really stood out to me was the character of Aunt Emma Madison. Her wisdom, subtle influence, and determination to protect her niece make her unforgettable. The way she quietly steers events without overpowering the story is masterfully written. The book kept me engaged from beginning to end, especially as old secrets resurfaced and relationships evolved. It’s a heartfelt story about family, resilience, and the possibility of rebuilding a broken life. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven dramas.
April 2, 2024
The word "meddler" invokes some irritating busybody who interferes with others to their detriment or at least, annoyance. Emma Madison, however, is not that kind of woman.
This story takes place in a small town in Ontario in 1956, when phones had party lines. Everyone knew what was going on simply by picking up the receiver and listening in.
The townspeople have their notions and expectations revised, rearranged and upended through Emma's ingenious and unconventional means. The results are beyond satisfactory, as the tapestry of community life woven is a rich and beautiful one.
Pat Michener has great insight into human nature, and her skill in presenting an older woman capable of engineering some astonishing solutions to problems within social relationships is masterful.
This book is an amazing accomplishment.
This story takes place in a small town in Ontario in 1956, when phones had party lines. Everyone knew what was going on simply by picking up the receiver and listening in.
The townspeople have their notions and expectations revised, rearranged and upended through Emma's ingenious and unconventional means. The results are beyond satisfactory, as the tapestry of community life woven is a rich and beautiful one.
Pat Michener has great insight into human nature, and her skill in presenting an older woman capable of engineering some astonishing solutions to problems within social relationships is masterful.
This book is an amazing accomplishment.
June 27, 2025
I didn’t expect to feel this deeply, to root so hard for Barbara even as she danced dangerously close to the edge. From the very first page, I was swallowed into her world—a house that felt like a prison, a marriage that decayed into menace, and a town where every smile hid a secret. Evelyn is the kind of character that gets under your skin. Is she a monster? A savior? A reflection of Barbara’s worst fears?
And then there’s Mason—gentle, patient, unexpected. His scenes made me cry quietly, because they offered something that seemed foreign to Barbara for so long: kindness. Blake doesn’t offer easy answers. She paints a world where survival means dancing with fire, and where love—if it can be called that—costs something dear. This book devastated me in the most beautiful way. I want to hand it to every woman who's ever felt unseen and whisper, “You are not alone.”
June 27, 2025
A triumph of emotional storytelling cloaked in shadows.”
This isn’t just a story about escape. It’s about transformation. Barbara goes from silent victim to someone terrifyingly aware of her own power, and that shift is so masterfully written it gave me chills. The scenes with Evelyn are electric—each conversation a chess match, every glance a threat. Evelyn is one of the most compelling, dangerous women I’ve ever read.
By the end, I was trembling. It’s that rare kind of book that leaves you reeling for days after, questioning how well you know the people closest to you—and maybe even yourself. Jordan Blake, thank you for this masterpiece. I loved it. I survived it. I’ll carry it with me forever.
This isn’t just a story about escape. It’s about transformation. Barbara goes from silent victim to someone terrifyingly aware of her own power, and that shift is so masterfully written it gave me chills. The scenes with Evelyn are electric—each conversation a chess match, every glance a threat. Evelyn is one of the most compelling, dangerous women I’ve ever read.
By the end, I was trembling. It’s that rare kind of book that leaves you reeling for days after, questioning how well you know the people closest to you—and maybe even yourself. Jordan Blake, thank you for this masterpiece. I loved it. I survived it. I’ll carry it with me forever.
October 17, 2024
This review will not be a recap like a school book report. This is what you need to know: If you like reading about small-town, character-driven drama, this is your ticket. It's very well written and reading it was a pleasure. I kept telling myself, "Wow! I cannot believe how good this is!"
Years ago [2014?] when I read Andy Weir"s "The Martian," I thought it would make a great movie. Well, I'm having the same thoughts about Emma's book. I've already cast characters and can't wait until it shows up on Netflix, AppleTV, heck, even Paramount. In my mind.
Full disclosure, I won an Early Reviewers giveaway of this book at LibraryThing.com, a great site for book lovers.
Years ago [2014?] when I read Andy Weir"s "The Martian," I thought it would make a great movie. Well, I'm having the same thoughts about Emma's book. I've already cast characters and can't wait until it shows up on Netflix, AppleTV, heck, even Paramount. In my mind.
Full disclosure, I won an Early Reviewers giveaway of this book at LibraryThing.com, a great site for book lovers.
May 31, 2026
Emma Madison, Master Meddler is a beautifully written story filled with heart, redemption, and unforgettable characters. I was immediately drawn into Jasmine's journey as she returned home to face her past, and I loved watching her growth unfold throughout the novel. Emma Madison is the kind of character who quietly steals every scene with her wisdom, determination, and perfectly timed interventions. The small town drama, family relationships, and emotional depth made this a compelling read that kept me invested until the very end. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys character driven stories with warmth, hope, and second chances.
April 15, 2024
Intrigue and romance - how can you not love this book? The plot wends its way through the quiet life of a small town which turns out to not be so quiet after all. With skill the author rounds out her characters, giving them depth and making them familiar. The book did a good job of pulling me in to follow through and see what was going to happen to those people. Emma, herself, is a force to be reckoned with! This is a big book with a big story - an excellent debut novel for Pat McDermott Michener. I highly recommend it.
April 20, 2024
Such a fantastic book!There are over one hundred chapters and each one adds immensely to the stories of several people in the gossipy small Canadian town of Medford. The stories are interlinked by those of Jasmine and her great aunt Emma. Sorrows, deep regrets, love, and rekindled love work through the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed this book so very much.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 17, 2024
Well, I am biased of course but I read this book in manuscript form and though it is not a genre that I would gravitate to, it was a real page turner. Every time I put it down I wanted to know what would happen next. It just pulled me along on a fairly wild ride...and then it was done. Lots going on, lots of subthemes...a really good read.
May 1, 2024
‘Emma Madison’ becomes a page turner as Pat McDermott Michener sets up several intriguing mysteries that the reader longs to solve. The short chapters make it easy to read & allow you to find out more, even when your time is short. Emma is indeed a 'Master Meddler' & an interesting character.
Marilyn Green
Marilyn Green
June 27, 2025
This isn’t just a story about escape. It’s about transformation. Barbara goes from silent victim to someone terrifyingly aware of her own power, and that shift is so masterfully written it gave me chills. The scenes with Evelyn are electric—each conversation a chess match, every glance a threat. Evelyn is one of the most compelling, dangerous women I’ve ever read.
April 18, 2024
I wished I had this choice when it was my turn to pick next for book club. The book was incredibly suspenseful with well-rounded and developed characters. It was definitely hard to put down. I think this is screenplay-worthy!
April 18, 2024
I could not put this book down! This story had me completely hooked right from the beginning until the very end! A very compelling read with multiple characters intertwined into a story of betrayal, redemption and second chances. I highly recommend it
April 11, 2024
Good characters and plot!
April 18, 2024
I've really enjoyed reading this book! Can't wait for her next novel.
April 18, 2024
Nicely woven story, compelling characters, suspenseful and intriguing. A page turner!
April 25, 2024
I started this book and couldn't put it down! Full review to come.....
August 7, 2024
Fun read with engaging characters!
March 8, 2026
Check reviews online.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews