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.
Originally separate but interconnected short stories that together weave an epic tale, now combined in one neat package. These adventures are a perfect read for those who crave an action-adventure experience with a fun genre blend. The Feats of Madeleine isn't trying to fit in. This is not your usual literary yada yada. But is instead a pioneering, different, and refreshing read. The stories also offer a wide age range of enjoyability. From middle-grade to adult!
Who says we can't look to a kid for a hero?
Madeleine faces any challenge with an iron head and spirit. I think she wants you to tag along and see what it's all about. But don't just take my word for it, The Townsville Rascal herself will tell you:
"Hello-hello, this is Maddie Di Luna! You're here because you stumbled upon my adventure book. Guess you have some interest, right? Of course you do! As my esteemed counterpart said, all adventures are recounted by yours truly. Join me and my pal Lancelot as we challenge ourselves."
"Did I mention that I'm also the greatest hero of all time.... They say I'm blunt, they say I'm brash, but when it takes guts, I strike in a flash!"
"When reading my adventures you'll not only experience dogged sword fights and supernatural beings, but great insight too. The roller coaster of highs and lows that come with living the way of the warrior. And ultimately, I hope my quests will help you believe in yourself more, it would be pretty awesome to see that. So what are you waiting for? Give my stories a shot. Yes you reader, I'm talking to you."
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
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.
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.