Fiction Review

Claddaugh
by Tammy Doherty
ISBN-10: 1594675929
Review by Heather Froeschl

Leigh does not love her husband and it is clear that he does not love her. She was chasing a dream when they wed, one which he could not fulfill. Her family ties to wealth are what attracted his attentions. His sister insisted upon the match; she ruled over him all of his life. Leigh's brother Kyle must be clandestine when visiting her in Philadelphia for David Parker is a jealous and suspicious man, even though he views Leigh as a possession, not a wife. It is through these visits and the trouble of her being brought in for questioning for passing counterfeit bills that Leigh learns the secret service is watching her husband, and she decides to become an informant.

Living with her husband and his controlling sister becomes dangerous as it is discovered that Leigh is with child. As the secret service closes in Kyle should have sent her to stay with family, but he doesn't. During a confrontation, Leigh faces peril and is hospitalized. What follows is a struggle with morality, old feelings and present dangers. Will Leigh ever be happy? Can she allow herself that?

While an enjoyable read, I found the plot weak and subsequently, the supporting sub-plots to be drawn out and somewhat lacking. I could not relate to the inner turmoil that Leigh contemplated, as it seemed a bit too pure and forced. The idea of the Claddaugh is a delight to see brought into play though and the relationships in the story are cause for thought and study in sociology. "Claddaugh" is a nice passive read...not quite romance and not quite adventure, it is a work of fiction that demonstrates life of over 100 years ago through the troubled eyes of a likeable heroine.