Alias Agnes
The Notorious Tale of a Gilded Age Spy

Alias Agnes: The Notorious Tale of a Gilded Age Spy by Elizabeth A. DeWolfe is an extremely accessible historical nonfiction book. DeWolfe has written the text to feel like a novel. As I was reading, I got sucked into the story. The details and care DeWolfe took while writing, really make it feel li......more

In 1893 Madeleine Pollard sues Congressman Breckenridge of KY for breach of marriage contract after their 9 year affair. Painted as a social climber, it is Madeleine's alleged promiscuity, not the congressman's deplorable behavior, that are on trial. Enter Jane Tucker alias Agnes Parker, a career-mi......more

The history behind this book is fascinating: Two women who hoped to break out of the dull lives laid out for them in the late 19th century go two very different ways. As the author says, their similar goals didn't translate into female solidarity. I found the writing a litlte disorganized at times,......more

This is a fascinating book! Washington, DC history? Check! Women's place in society? Check! Enthralling trial? Check! An undercover woman spy? Check! Many familiar names in US and DC history! Highly recommend......more

A fascinating study of what it meant to be a woman without gild or status during the Gilded Age. In this case it meant keeping secrets, making false friendships, and not letting go of ambitions and dreams of security and respect.......more