Review of The Madame

[Obinna Chima Agoms]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Madame" by Marie Mason.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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In The Madame, Marie Mason embarked on an exploration of the Mojave Desert town of Randsburg, Southern California. The book followed the story of the French madame, Marguerite Roberts. The madame's real name was Emily E. Jarick, born to Marguerite and George Brickett. The madame was married to a German man called August Jarick. Unfortunately, August abandoned Emily and her eighteen-month-old son. Following her heartbreak, Emily's parents had her committed to the first operating asylum in Southern California, 'the Patton Asylum' also called the 'Highland Insane Asylum.' Incarceration at the asylum was akin to a death sentence — no one ever came out. This book traced Emily's survival story and her journey to becoming the almost mythical figure of the 'French Madame of Randsburg.' At the same time, Mason shared her experiences with the 'unlived' residents of the Mojave Desert town.

The author highlighted the historical aspects of this book in a way that would give readers an insight into what it felt like living in the 19th century. Mason brought the town of Randsburg to life with her in-depth revelations about the town's history. They were enlightening and educational. Her background story on the Patton Asylum establishment and the facility's operation was shocking and exciting to read. She also showed readers the part played by the state in fostering the shocking incidents with the establishment of the asexualization and lunacy laws. The reality of what transpired at the asylum was a story that needed to be told.

Mason also highlighted the gender discriminatory practices perpetuated in this book's era. It was crazy, as women were subjected to inhumane treatment in a world that seemingly belonged to men. Common laws allowed women to marry at the age of twelve but would not allow them to serve men liquor or earn a good income. The playful and informal nature of the author's storytelling did not mask the horrific nature of what occurred at the time.

The historical nature of this book blended well with the chilling paranormal occurrences. Playing detective or paranormal investigator with the author, as she gathered proof that Madame Marguerite Roberts was real, felt good. Mason made use of deductive reasoning and speculations in analyzing her evidence. However, it was clear that she was sure about her deductions, which would boost readers' confidence in her discoveries.

There was a repetition of some narratives, which I suspected was the author trying to stress certain facts. Unfortunately, the effects were cloying and confusing; it left me cross-checking whether I was rereading a particular paragraph or line. The book was steeped in errors, and it was obvious from the beginning that it had not undergone editing. It was frustrating and a chore to make sense of certain sentences. The reading experience would improve with a thorough round of editing. At this time, I’d rate The Madame three out of four stars. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy a blend of history and the paranormal.

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The Madame
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[Okorji98]

The historical nature of this book blended well with the chilling paranormal occurrences. Great book and can't wait to read it.

[Sarah tianna]

Based on the review, I can conclude this book is absolutely fascinating and engaging. I look forward to reading this amazing book. Thanks for a mindblowing review.

[FunkyFlowerLady]

Wonderful review about this paranormal thriller! It seems quite scary haha I'd give it a try!