In the book 'Carnal Gift' by Pamela Clare, the story follows the hardships faced by Brighid and her brothers, Irish peasants struggling to survive under English occupation in the mid-eighteenth century. After their father is sold as a slave in Barbados for teaching reading and writing, Brighid catches the eye of an English earl who gives her to his friend Jamie Blackwell as a gift. The plot involves a passionate romance between Brighid and Jamie, set against the backdrop of historical details cleverly integrated into the narrative. The book explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the challenges faced by the Irish during that time.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Brighid as a determined heroine, Jamie as a noble savior, and her brothers reflecting varied approaches to their shared struggle.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and emotionally resonant, effectively combining historical context with character-driven storytelling, despite minor proofreading issues.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows the lives of poor Irish siblings during English occupation, focusing on Brighid's abduction and Jamie's attempts to save her, set against a backdrop of historical conflict.

Setting:

The setting is 18th-century Ireland, under English colonial rule, providing a poignant backdrop for themes of oppression and resistance.

Pacing:

The pacing strikes a balance between slow character development and enough intrigue to keep readers engaged.

Brighid of Maelsechnaill put the bacon and oatcakes on the table, her heart humming with excitement. Her father stepped out of the back room, dressed, and washed for the day. His gaze met hers, a spec...

Notes:

Brighid and her brothers are Irish peasants living during the English occupation of Ireland.

Their father, a teacher, is captured and sent as a slave to Barbados for trying to preserve Irish culture.

Finn becomes the head of the family after their father's deportation.

Ruaidhri, Brighid's brother, is restless and prone to trouble due to the harsh ruling of the English Earl.

The Earl abducts Brighid, intending to give her as a 'carnal gift' to Jamie Blackwell.

Jamie Blackwell is introduced in a previous book and is now involved in shipbuilding business.

Brighid and Jamie develop feelings for each other but cannot pursue a relationship due to social and religious constraints.

The book features strong themes of honor, loyalty, and the struggles of the Irish against English oppression.

A key plot point involves Jamie attempting to protect Brighid while navigating treacherous political waters.

The author restored 100 pages of the original manuscript to enhance historical authenticity.

Brighid is educated but lacks resources for a wider perspective on life.

The book includes cultural and historical details relevant to the Irish-English conflict of the 18th century.

Despite some criticisms, readers praise the emotional depth and character development in the story.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for themes of abduction, historical violence, and social oppression are pertinent due to the context in which the story occurs.

Has Romance?

The romance between Jamie and Brighid is central to the plot, showcasing deep emotional connections and challenges to their relationship.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

"I expect you to show my friend just how grateful you are. Your willingness is everything."

With those harsh words, the hated Sasanach earl decided Bríghid's fate: Her body and her virginity were to be offered up to a stranger in exchange for her brother's life. Possessing nothing but her innocence and her fierce Irish pride, she had no choice but to comply.

But the handsome man she faced in the darkened bedchamber was not at all the monster she expected. His green eyes seemed to see inside her. His tender touch calmed her fears while he swore he would protect her by merely pretending to claim her. And as the long hours of the night passed by, as her senses ignited at the heat of their naked flesh, she made a startling discovery: Sometimes the line between hate and love can be dangerously thin. more

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Carnal Gift

Pamela Clare

Book 2 in the series:Blakewell/Kenleigh Family