Previously having read two of Marie Benedict's books and loving them as well as having heard her speak two times;  I was very excited when a new book club I've recently joined picked this as the February book choice. While this book didn't completely disappointment, I'm sad to say that I was definitely underwhelmed. 

Firstly, let's just say that because this book has such deep Pittsburgh roots; I will defend it to the end even if I personally didn't care for it that much. ALSO: It's important to note that I read this ENTIRE novel thinking that Clara Kelly, the main character was a 'real person' as that is how most of Marie Benedict's books are written and once I read the Author's Note at the end, and learned she wasn't, the whole book did make a wee bit more sense and I raised my star rating from 2 to 3. 

In short summary; you're following Clara Kelly, an Irish immigrant that was sent to Philadelphia by her family. Once she arrives, she assumes the role of someone else and lands in Pittsburgh as lady maid of Mrs. Carnegie, Andrew Carnegie's mother. You'll follow her life in not only this role, but also in her role as she befriends Mr. Carnegie and helps him in his business ventures. 

While I found the history of Pittsburgh rather fascinating, the story as a whole fell a little short to me. It was mostly unbelievable and knowing that Andrew Carnegie was a not a..lovable..person made it all seem just a tad bit far fetched. 

Overall, I'm happy that I read the book, but not sure that it will be one of my favorites and definitely not one that I'll read again.