The Feats of Madeleine: Composite Novel

by Jack Selvaggio

Set in the early 2000's, this book tells the story of Madeleine Di Luna. What she lacks in grades, she makes up for with adventuring spirit, fight IQ, and a noggin of iron. Follow her as she recounts her greatest quests. As well as the trials and tribulations that come with them. Giving up is never an option for this fiery kid. And believing in yourself is an understatement.

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 26, 2024

About the author

Hey there,

When I started writing, I jumped into it blindly. My first creative passion was martial arts which was a big part of my life. After having to part ways with a further competitive path, I looked for something to fill that void. Writing was something I was always pretty good at, no joke probably saved me from getting bad grades in school. Ultimately I took the chance to create something people could enjoy through writing. I was able to fuse my martial arts experience to make battle scenes truly come alive. I took it upon myself to do all the work, truly a one-man show. I also wanted to write something unique and different, not like other authors. It’s been pretty rewarding and makes me feel good. I hope that readers can make a connection with Madeleine. If my character made an impact on them, then I fulfilled my goal.

Check out my Instagram to learn more about me, new story updates, and other fun stuff: @maddiediluna

(My only social media)

Reviews

[Louie the Mustache Matos · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had never read a composite novel before (probably because I did not know what a composite novel was, although it is not difficult to figure out). A composite novel is really a short story anthology of tales that build upon the previous tale in linear fashion, in order to tell a larger narrative.

In a book like The Feats of Madeleine, each "feat" has its own chapter, each chapter communicating stories that build and strengthen the "legend" of this ten-year-old little girl. Madeleine Di Luna, our main character, aspires to being heroic, and uses investigation as a means to that end. She begins with finding a lost dog (literally a save the cat trope) which means that she is driven and courageous. Those are admirable qualities, but then in the second feat, Madeleine's best friend is put in mortal danger by her ridiculous compulsion. That soured me on Madeleine and made me question her motives.

Little by little, others begin to buy into Madeleine's delusions of grandeur, even adding to her gang by various methods. The story continues with more feats, one of which is her headbutting skill in close combat. Her mom is constantly attempting to discipline her, but with grandfather serving as a defensive bulwark to her mother's attempts at focusing Madeleine, she continues to advance her legend. Even one of the local police calls her Private Eye.

I call this one right down the middle. I think Madeleine is obnoxious and entitled, and I hate that she receives validation for her misbehavior, especially in endangering the gang of youth that encircle her. The novel is entertaining and believable until the implausible climax.

[Evan Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very entertaining book! Madeleine is tough like a ram and I love that. Good mix of action and heartfelt moments too.

[Jim Van Wyck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun stories

I don’t know what a compound novel is.
I am guessing the author means a collection of stories.
I enjoyed these stories a lot.
Simple friendly and easy to read.