The Mad Girls of New York by Maya Rodale

Nellie Bly is out to prove that women can do a job better than men or at least just as well. After fighting for a chance at writing articles in NYC newspapers other than the society pages and being told that it is no place for a lady, Nellie shows them that journalism is no place for anyone who is afraid of getting their hands dirty or taking a risk. She has herself committed to one of the worst mental institutions in the city knowing that she can get in and hoping that her editor remembers to get her out. What she finds there is appalling- little food, unsanitary conditions, little or no medical treatment as well as constant humiliation and boredom. The articles she wrote exposing the atrocities caused public outcry for change and helped free the innocent mentally sound women imprisoned there. Nellie's tough brand of investigative journalism shook up the system and encouraged young women to tread boldly where only men walk. An in-depth look at the women's movement as well as a fast paced adventure and the fierce charm of Nellie and the other women stunt reporters- this looks like the first in a series with more to come. Fans of Fiona Davis and Marie Benedict as well as Caleb Carr's THE ALIENIST will find much to love.  4 stars