Official Synopsis of Carnegie’s Maid:
Clara Kelley is not who she pretends to be. She’s not the skilled Irish maid hired to work for one of Pittsburgh’s wealthiest families. Instead, she’s a poor farmer’s daughter with no money and nowhere to go. The woman who shared her name has disappeared, and taking her place could be Clara’s chance to earn money to send back home.
However, maintaining this facade isn’t easy. Working as a lady’s maid in Andrew Carnegie’s household demands skills she lacks, and she serves a stern mistress who controls her sons and the household with an iron grip. What Clara does possess is a resolve as strong as the steel for which Pittsburgh is becoming known, alongside an exceptional grasp of business. Andrew starts to depend on her. Yet, Clara knows she can’t lower her guard, even as Andrew becomes more than just her employer. Revealing her true identity could jeopardize her future and her family’s well-being.
Carnegie’s Maid is a story filled with emotion and insight, portraying how one remarkable woman may have influenced Andrew Carnegie’s transformation from a cutthroat industrialist to a pioneering philanthropist.
Carnegie’s Maid Review:
Marie Benedict, known for ‘The Other Einstein,’ offers another fascinating novel with ‘Carnegie’s Maid.’ The book explores the hypothetical scenario where Andrew Carnegie is deeply influenced by a servant’s wisdom and affection. The story, narrated by Clara Kelley, merges elements of fact and fiction.
The narrative hinges on Clara Kelley, making her the most fleshed-out character in the book. As a recent Irish immigrant, Clara’s ingenuity and adaptability quickly make her indispensable to the Carnegie matriarch. She masks her fears and true identity behind a calm demeanor, creating a sense of profound loneliness.
Clara’s natural curiosity alleviates some of this isolation. Her unconventional upbringing in Ireland provided her with a broader perspective on the world. Unlike typical immigrants focused solely on sending money back home, Clara adopts a unique approach to aid her family. She pays close attention to the discussions between Margaret Carnegie and her son, Andrew, capturing Andrew’s interest and drawing her into deeper conversations.
An Unlikely Romance:
The budding romance between the wealthy Andrew Carnegie and the Irish maid Clara avoids typical romance clichés. Marie Benedict handles their developing relationship with sensitivity, focusing on a gentle, evolving regard rather than instant attraction. Their connection comes through shared intellectual curiosity, with Andrew recognizing and gently encouraging Clara to open up about herself. Clara sees a reflection of her own humble beginnings in Andrew, fostering their bond.
Clara remains aware of her deception even as she enjoys Andrew’s company. Their discussions gradually shift from personal topics to business, blending Clara seamlessly into Andrew Carnegie’s business life. Through their conversations, her influence grows, although the social gap between them never fully closes. This balance keeps their relationship from becoming conventional or predictable.
Adaptation Recommendation:
‘Carnegie’s Maid’ would make a fantastic television movie or limited series. The period setting would allow for elaborate costumes and sets, reflecting the novel’s era. A screen adaptation could also delve deeper into Andrew Carnegie’s history and his rise as a steel magnate, contrasting his success with the experiences of 19th-century Irish immigrants in Pittsburgh. Picture a combination of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ and ‘The Age of Innocence.’
Final Thoughts:
While the novel offers glimpses of Andrew Carnegie’s ruthless business side, I wish there had been more insights into Clara’s opinions on this aspect of his personality. Given her role as a lady’s maid, her views might be limited, but they are essential to understanding her character.
The ending felt abrupt, which may be a testament to how engrossing the story is—leaving readers wanting more. The well-developed secondary characters, from Clara’s cousins in Pittsburgh’s slums to an escaped slave searching for his family, enrich the narrative and add depth to Clara’s journey.
‘Carnegie’s Maid’ is a captivating, well-written ‘what if’ tale that sparks the imagination. It’s perfect for a commuter read or a travel companion. You can find this book at your favorite bookstore or online retailer.
Content Warning: None – a lovely, clean read!
Have you read ‘Carnegie’s Maid?’ Share your thoughts in the comments below!
