Book Review for Madam Tulip, by David Ahern
Madam Tulip, by David Ahern, is a heartwarming mystery about a young psychic who is thrust into a world of money and drugs. As she tries to prevent innocent lives from being taken, her strength of character and her admittedly frustrating relationships help her realize an inner strength she didn’t know she had.
The novel begins with Derry O’ Donnell, a struggling actress whose mother is trying to convince her to find a conventional job, and whose father is running away from a love he keeps forgetting not to sleep with. One day, Derry accompanies her father to the horse races, where she predicts the winning horse and captures the attention of two important celebrities. She is introduced to higher society, filled with glamor and elegance. However, Derry soon becomes entangled in a plot that threatens to endanger both her and everyone she loves. Derry must use her skills as a psychic and amateur detective to try and save herself and her friends before it’s too late.
I found the characters playfully whimsical, with Derry being the most endearing. From dealing with her somewhat overly enthusiastic parents, to the lovable awkwardness she shares with Bella, it’s clear that Derry is a nice girl who, as is, will not survive a day in the corrupt den of the elite. Well, at least not without the help of her friends. Though I’ve grown frustrated with their antics more often than not, it’s enjoyable to see her interact with them. I also admire Derry’s strength of character, which was one of the pinnacles of the book.
Ahern leaves many plot points to be explored. I still couldn’t help but ponder on if Derry and her love interest would get together, if her best friend would stop getting herself into trouble, if Madam Tulip will continue to aid investigators. But even then, there is a constant in the novel that I found refreshing; that Derry has a gift that, though it will no doubt take her to many horrific places, will lead her to do the right thing in the end. Not only that, but she also has friends and family to support her. It was a little cheesy for me, but relieving nonetheless.
There were certain things I’ve noticed that did detract from the book. For instance, some of the wording was a bit awkward, and there were a few mistakes that were pretty noticeable.
Nevertheless, I would give this book a rating of a 3.7 out of 4 stars. It is certainly different from all the books I’ve read; although Madam Tulip does encompass a wide range of genres usually found in the more sinful places of human imagination, Ahern spun these genres to make it lighthearted, and at times, amusing. Derry’s relationship with her family and friends will be important in the upcoming books, and it’s a nice constant to the screwed up mess around her. The book is a good way to introduce readers to the mystery genre, and I would consider it appropriate for all ages.
