Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict is a historical fiction novel set in the late 19th century, focusing on Clara Kelley, an Irish immigrant who assumes the role of a lady's maid to the mother of Andrew Carnegie due to a case of mistaken identity. The story delves into the challenges faced by immigrants, the disparities between the rich and the poor, and the relationships between servants and their employers. Through Clara's journey, the book explores the life of Andrew Carnegie and speculates on what may have influenced him to become one of the greatest philanthropists in history.

The narrative is told in diary format, following Clara's experiences as she navigates her new role, develops relationships with the Carnegie family, and ultimately influences Andrew Carnegie's philanthropic endeavors. The book blends historical facts with fiction to provide insights into the social classes, immigrant experiences, and the dynamics of power and wealth during the industrial age, offering a unique perspective on a renowned historical figure.

Characters:

Characters are crafted to represent a depth of social issues, especially Clara as an immigrant and Carnegie as a complex figure of wealth and philanthropy, though not all are fully developed.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and blends historical fact with fiction, though some readers find certain language usages awkward.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot focuses on Clara Kelley, an Irish immigrant who assumes another woman's identity to secure a position as a lady's maid in Andrew Carnegie's household. The story sheds light on the class divide and immigrant struggles while exploring Clara's personal journey and relationship with Carnegie.

Setting:

The setting is vividly portrayed in late 19th century Pittsburgh, showcasing the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty during the industrial boom.

Pacing:

Pacing is generally smooth and engaging, though some parts may feel repetitive.

I shouldn’t be here. Cecelia or Eliza could have been swaying on this stinking vessel instead of me. It was their right—Eliza’s duty anyway, as the eldest daughter—to make the voyage and take the chan...

Notes:

Clara Kelley is an Irish immigrant who comes to America to support her family struggling with economic deprivation due to famine in Ireland.

She assumes the identity of another Clara Kelley who died on her journey, allowing her to become a lady's maid for the Carnegie family.

Clara's father ensured that his daughters were educated, which gave her a leg up in navigating her new life in America.

Andrew Carnegie, a titan of industry, is depicted as being influenced by Clara's ideas, potentially driving his future philanthropic efforts.

Clara's intelligence and quick wit help her succeed in her role as a maid, despite having no prior experience in domestic service.

The story highlights contrasts between the lives of the rich and the poor during the Gilded Age in America, particularly in Pittsburgh.

The book explores the struggles of immigrants and the societal expectations of women in the 19th century, revealing the pervasive class differences of the time.

Author Marie Benedict's portrayal of Clara seeks to give voice to the often overlooked stories of women in history, which she believes are significant in shaping ideas and innovations of the era.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers may include themes of poverty, class struggle, and historical references to social injustice and immigration hardships.

Has Romance?

There is a moderate presence of romance between Clara and Andrew Carnegie, unfolding against the backdrop of class differences and personal dilemmas.

From The Publisher:

From the author of The Other Einstein, the mesmerizing tale of what kind of woman could have inspired an American dynasty.

Clara Kelley is not who they think she is. She's not the experienced Irish maid who was hired to work in one of Pittsburgh's grandest households. She's a poor farmer's daughter with nowhere to go and nothing in her pockets. But the other woman with the same name has vanished, and pretending to be her just might get Clara some money to send back home.

If she can keep up the ruse, that is. Serving as a lady's maid in the household of Andrew Carnegie requires skills he doesn't have, answering to an icy mistress who rules her sons and her domain with an iron fist. What Clara does have is a resolve as strong as the steel Pittsburgh is becoming famous for, coupled with an uncanny understanding of business, and Andrew begins to rely on her. But Clara can't let her guard down, not even when Andrew becomes something more than an employer. Revealing her past might ruin her future - and her family's.

With captivating insight and heart, Carnegie's Maid tells the story of one brilliant woman who may have spurred Andrew Carnegie's transformation from ruthless industrialist into the world's first true philanthropist.

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About the Author:

Marie Benedict is a lawyer with more than ten years' experience as a litigator. A graduate of Boston College and the Boston University School of Law, she is the New York Times and USAToday bestselling author of The Only Woman…

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Carnegie's Maid

Marie Benedict