This was an interesting book. Well written even, but I'm not sure how it will do since it's kind of a me and Joe story. Not much of a book.

I really enjoyed the way Rosemary Everton wrote this memoir, it had that element that I was hoping for and enjoyed in this type of book. I was engaged with the stories being told and had that journey that I was looking for.

A Story That Shines in the Ordinary

Every once in a while, a memoir comes along that reminds us the American Dream isn’t just about riches or fame. It’s about grit, faith, and the will to keep going. Rosemary Everton’s Maid in America: A Journey of Resilience, Determination, and the American Dream is exactly that kind of story. It’s a heartfelt, down-to-earth look at what it means to build a life from the ground up, armed with little more than hard work and hope. Everton’s voice is both humble and powerful, making readers feel like they’re sitting across from an old friend who’s lived through tough times and come out wiser on the other side.

A Life Written in Hard Work

The memoir traces Everton’s journey from humble beginnings to her years working as a housekeeper, determined to carve out a better future for herself and her family. Along the way, she faces moments of exhaustion, self-doubt, and heartache, but what stands out most is her unwavering perseverance. She describes her experiences with an honesty that feels rare—there’s no sugarcoating here, just truth and grit. The book is filled with vivid scenes of scrubbing, saving, and striving, yet Everton finds dignity in every moment. Her story captures not only the struggle of working-class Americans but also the quiet victories that come from refusing to give up.

The Heart of the American Dream

What makes Maid in America special is its honest portrayal of ambition without glamour. Everton doesn’t chase success in the traditional sense; instead, she defines it through independence, family, and self-respect. Her journey is a testament to what so many people live every day—working tirelessly for something better, even when the odds seem impossible. The way she balances hope with realism gives the memoir its emotional punch. Readers come away not just inspired but also reminded of the countless unseen workers whose labor fuels the dream we all talk about.

Written with Warmth and Grace

Everton’s writing style is unpretentious but deeply engaging. She knows how to draw readers in with the small details—like the smell of cleaning products on her hands or the quiet pride after a long day’s work—that make her story feel real and relatable. There’s humor here too, often tucked between moments of fatigue and reflection, which keeps the book from ever feeling heavy. Her prose is clear, sincere, and full of heart, proving that powerful storytelling doesn’t need polish to shine. It’s the kind of memoir that lingers long after you’ve finished, not because of dramatic twists, but because of its honesty.

A Worthy Read for Anyone Seeking Inspiration

Maid in America is a tribute to the everyday heroes who make life run smoothly but rarely get the spotlight. Rosemary Everton turns her personal story into something universal—a celebration of perseverance, humility, and the power of believing in yourself. This book will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of resilience and self-made strength. It’s both inspiring and grounding, a reminder that the true American Dream lives not in boardrooms or big cities, but in the hands of those who keep moving forward, one small victory at a time. Everton’s journey is a beautiful reflection of that truth, and her memoir deserves a spot on every bookshelf dedicated to real, hard-won hope.

Rosemary's story of her life's challenges, which began in her early teens, will inspire anyone to be resilient and persistent when pursuing their dreams.
"Maid in America" is a heartwarming story about how she didn't let the tough times get in her way as she and her husband built a solid life together and started a successful business that has served their customers, employees, and them well.

It's a nice story, but I would have given this a higher rating if the book had been better edited.

*I received an ARC of this book as an e-book through Netgalley, with the requirement that I submit an honest review.