The book delves into the life of Madame Restell, a 19th-century abortionist and women's health advocate in New York City. It explores her controversial career, highlighting her defiance against societal norms and legal constraints in a time when women's reproductive rights were severely restricted. Through her story, the book sheds light on the broader historical context of women's rights and the ongoing struggle for bodily autonomy, illustrating how Restell's work challenged the status quo and provoked significant public debate.