Mad and Bad

"Mad and Bad" explores the diverse and often overlooked women of the Regency era who defied traditional roles and societal expectations. Through a focus on figures like Dido Elizabeth Belle, Caroline Herschel, Anne Lister, and Judith Montefiore, the book highlights their achievements and independence, broadening the historical narrative beyond the typical upper-class, white, Christian image. It also delves into broader cultural questions related to LGBTQ+ communities, women of color, and pioneering women in science and other fields, revealing a more vibrant and inclusive portrait of the period.