Reviews

Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict

clay1914's review against another edition

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3.0

I’m def on a gilded age kick.

lottie1803's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

chapterswithcheincle's review against another edition

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4.0

Carnegie’s Maid
by Marie Bennett
4/5 ⭐️

Clara Kelley is mistakenly identified as someone else, but this mix-up leads to a life-changing opportunity. She is brought into the home of Andrew Carnegie as a lady’s maid, where she serves the mistress of the house. Despite the challenging nature of her work, the job provides good pay that Clara can send back home to her family. 

With her strong will, Clara quickly adapts to her new role and becomes a confidante to both Mrs. Carnegie and Andrew. However, she must be careful not to overstep the boundaries between servant and employer. If the Carnegies discover Clara’s true identity, it could jeopardize her future and that of her family. 

Carnegie’s Maid is a captivating romantic historical fiction novel. The story, narrated from Clara’s perspective, adds heart and empathy. I particularly enjoyed learning about the Carnegie family and Andrew’s journey to success and wealth. He was a remarkable man who became one of the world’s first philanthropists. If you appreciate the Gilded Age era and enjoy a touch of romance, I recommend this book.

smilesgiggle's review against another edition

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3.0

Quick, easy read.
Carnegie gave away his wealth with grace; sharing hope, opportunity, education. One of the libraries in my community started as a Carnegie library.
In 1883, Clara is sent to America with the hope of providing her Irish farming family with extra income. Their landlord has started reclaiming parcels of their 20 acre farm. By the hand of Fate, Clara assumes the identity of a different Clara who likely died on the passage. Clara becomes Mrs Carnegie's maid.
Clara and Mr Carnegie begin a friendship - easing the loneliness of both.
I loved these characters- the dismal circumstance of Clara's family both in Ireland and Pittsburgh. Mr Ford, the family's cook, broke my heart. On their journey north on the Underground Railroad, Mr. Ford was separated from his wife and daughter.
I recommend if you're looking for a family drama.

bonniehikes's review against another edition

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4.0

This was a slow read for me, personally. I enjoy historical fiction and this is a fiction story about what could have been the woman who inspired Andrew Carnegie's philanthropical success. I was hoping for a bit more drama, romance, or suspense, but others may find it to be perfect for their taste.

legendofpi's review against another edition

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hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

kleeworthy's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful reflective relaxing medium-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Really enjoyed. I like how critical she was able to be of Andrew without making him a villain. 

mariearoon's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional informative inspiring mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

deniselk's review against another edition

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5.0

I really enjoyed this book. A fun, historical read.

jkhsquonk's review against another edition

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3.0

Well crafted and realistic. A believable (and likable) central character, showing a possible scenario for historical outcomes.