Woman 99

By: Greer Macallister

Narrated by: Nina Alvamar

Charlotte Smith's future is planned to the last detail, and so was her sister's - until Phoebe became a disruption. When their parents commit Phoebe to a notorious asylum, Charlotte knows there's more to the story than madness.

Shedding her identity to become an anonymous inmate, "Woman 99", Charlotte uncovers dangerous secrets. Insanity isn't the only reason her fellow inmates were put away - and those in power will do anything to keep the truth, or Charlotte, from getting out.

©2019 Greer Macallister (P)2019 Recorded Books

finished but... not a "wow'

Loved the premise of novel, it could have been So much better but fell very flat on various points. If your a lover of historical fiction this novel will NOT meet your expections. If your just a fiction lover who enjoys a non romantic drama, this is your cup of tea. Overall characters didn't make strong impact when I truly wanted to connect with them. The plot seemed very forced for last two hours. The performance was very well done.

Bookclub pick!

As teenagers in the late 1800s, sisters Charlotte and Phoebe were captivated by investigative journalist Nellie Bly's reported adventures. Never did they imagine Bly's expose of the deplorable conditions in an insane asylum would become relevant to their own lives. When their parents believe they have reason to commit Phoebe, Charlotte blames herself and devises a plan to rescue her older sister.

Goldengrove claims to be progressive in its time, implementing innovative treatments and using the Greek Muses as inspiration for categorizing the women's so-called ailments. The matron sternly asserts that "if God and science allow, you will be cured."  As relationships and alliances develop, Charlotte discovers why her fellow inmates have been committed. While realizing not everyone's revelations are completely trustworthy, it becomes apparent that all that may be necessary to declare a woman insane is "the word of a man who stands to benefit and a doctor willing to sell his say-so."

Charlotte soon discovers that first finding Phoebe among the patients will be a challenge, not to mention getting her out. And so, Macallister masterfully spins a complex tale, with Charlotte eventually questioning whether there are some ways in which, in spite of its terrors, the asylum frees women from the demands of society's expectations; or, as the matron puts it " . . . unable to achieve the female ideal." With a bit of romantic intrigue and a lot of historical detail this novel will make for an engaging book club selection, prompting discussion about how far we have come, yet how far we have to go to achieve justice and equality for women and for compassionate mental healthcare.

started off slowish

it started off slowish but soon the story picked up. good narration and ending.

Very Educational

A fascinating look into insane asylums for women in the 1800s, this story is also about love. Highly recommended!

Loved this story

Well written and the narrator is wonderful. I enjoyed the story so much and felt like I was right there with the characters.