The Nurses Secret A Thrilling Historical Novel of the Dark Side of Gilded Age New York City By Amanda Skenandore

In Amanda Skenandore's compelling novel, "Bellevue," set in 1880s New York, readers are immersed in the gripping tale of Una, a young female grifter who seeks refuge from the police by cunningly infiltrating Bellevue Hospital's pioneering nursing school. As Una strives to leave the harsh realities of the city streets behind, a series of murders continues to haunt her, threatening to unravel her carefully constructed facade.

Bellevue Hospital's nursing school, inspired by Florence Nightingale's principles, stands as a beacon of progress in a society where nurses were previously undervalued. Despite initial reservations about her prim classmates and the demanding doctors, Una discovers a sense of purpose and belonging as she confronts the grim realities of injury and disease.

However, Una's newfound stability is jeopardized when suspicions arise about a patient's death, placing her in grave danger of exposure. Faced with a perilous dilemma, Una must navigate the delicate balance between self-preservation and risking her identity to protect others.

Amanda Skenandore skillfully intertwines historical accuracy with riveting storytelling, offering readers a nuanced exploration of the evolution of modern nursing amidst the backdrop of nineteenth-century medicine. Through the eyes of a dynamic and compelling heroine, "Bellevue" sheds light on the challenges, triumphs, and moral complexities faced by women forging their paths in a rapidly changing world.