Some figures from history feel larger than life, and Victoria Woodhull is certainly one of them. Eden Collinsworth’s The Improbable Victoria Woodhull captures the spirit of a woman who was bold enough to imagine herself in places society insisted she could never be. From the world of high-stakes finance to the political stage, Woodhull left her mark in ways that still feel astonishing today. Collinsworth doesn’t just tell Woodhull’s story—she makes readers feel as though they’re meeting her for the first time, quirks and contradictions included.

A Glimpse Into Woodhull’s Extraordinary Life

The book explores the unlikely rise of Woodhull, who defied the social conventions of her time. Born into poverty, she reinvented herself repeatedly: as a stockbroker on Wall Street, a spiritualist, an advocate for women’s rights, and even the first woman to run for president of the United States in 1872. Along the way, she attracted both admiration and scandal, becoming a lightning rod for debates about gender, power, and morality. Collinsworth brings all these layers together, showing us a woman who was far from perfect but endlessly fascinating.

Why This Book Shines

What makes this book stand out is the way Collinsworth blends meticulous research with an engaging storytelling style. History books can sometimes feel dry, but here the writing flows with energy and personality, making it hard to put down. Collinsworth balances admiration for Woodhull with a clear-eyed view of her flaws, which makes the portrait feel authentic rather than polished. It’s both informative and entertaining, the kind of book that leaves you wanting to learn even more about the era.

Final Thoughts

The Improbable Victoria Woodhull is more than a biography—it’s an invitation to revisit a forgotten trailblazer who lived life on her own terms. Collinsworth succeeds in making history accessible and enjoyable, and Woodhull’s story feels surprisingly relevant in today’s conversations about equality and ambition. If you’re looking for a nonfiction read that is both thought-provoking and lively, this one is well worth your time.