Maître Susane

Maître Susane is the protagonist of the novel. She is a dynamic character, which means that she changes over the course of the narrative. Such changes in her character are inspired by her work on Marlyne Principaux’s case, her repeated encounters with Gilles Principaux, and her evolving relationships with Rudy, Lila, and Sharon.

Maître Susane is a lawyer, living and working in Bordeaux, France. In hopes of transcending her humble upbringing and social class, Maître attended college and pursued a law degree. She went “on to work for the city, as well,” and later opened her own private practice (18). When she initially opened the practice, she rented “two beautiful rooms on the cathedral square, thinking a distinguished address and a well-appointed office would bring in an interesting clientele” (50). In spite of these hopes, Maître finds herself struggling in the narrative present...