Anne Brontë's first published novel, Agnes Grey tells the story of one woman's search for love and happiness within the boundaries of pre-Victorian society. Forced by her family’s declining circumstances to find employment, Agnes Grey takes the only position open to her—governess within a wealthy family—and faces hardships that challenge the boundaries of her experience.

Published under the pseudonym Acton Bell, Agnes Grey is based on Anne Brontë's own time as a governess and her experience with the shallowness of the upper class as well as the oppression and abuse of women in powerless positions.