Agnes Grey follows the experiences of a young governess as she navigates the harsh realities of employment within the Victorian upper class. Determined to prove her independence and support her impoverished family, Agnes accepts positions in wealthy households where she encounters spoiled children and indifferent employers. The narrative, presented in a first-person perspective, documents her struggle to maintain her moral integrity while facing social isolation and professional humiliation. Her objective is to find both financial stability and personal fulfillment, yet she is constantly thwarted by the rigid class structures and the callous behavior of those she serves.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the novel's understated realism and its sharp, observant critique of the Victorian social order. Discussion often centers on how the protagonist's quiet endurance contrasts with the more dramatic elements found in the works of the author's sisters. Many readers appreciate the book's focus on the mundane but significant struggles of a working woman in the nineteenth century. The pacing is noted for being steady and reflective, prioritizing character development over complex plot twists. Ultimately, the work is recognized for its sincerity and its clear-eyed portrayal of the limitations placed upon women of the era.