Hmm. Okay, it seems unlikely it was a book about Eleanor Roosevelt. But I'm reaching.
Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride By Pam Muñoz Ryan
I tried: classic book "To the rescue" for the search. I recommend such. It might not get you what you want, but there'll be some really interesting things. ... I MIGHT HAVE FOUND IT!
Eve To The Rescue, by Ethel Houston. You can find it on Project Gutenberg if not in real life. Eve's name is Eveley!!!
If nothing in the book rings out to you, I understand. It's hard to connect with a character in a situation that you've never been in, especially when that character is utterly helpless, and without any way to escape. You're going to have a strong anti-sympathetic reaction, which may be what's going on here. A gut-deep "Why didn't she punch/kick/scream? I would have ripped whomever to shreds!" The TV series has to go to some lengths to create a sense that there is a way to fight.