In the rural landscape of Nova Scotia during the early twentieth century, a young woman becomes the apprentice of a local midwife, setting her on a collision course with the encroaching medical establishment. Dora Rare, the protagonist, seeks to preserve the traditional knowledge of childbirth passed down through generations, but she faces intense opposition from a modern doctor who views midwifery as archaic and dangerous. The narrative unfolds through a blend of first-person perspective and historical documents, capturing the tension between folk wisdom and the rise of clinical obstetrics. Dora must navigate the shifting social expectations of her community while protecting the women who rely on her mentor's care.

The novel is widely recognized for its meticulous research into the history of midwifery and the social shifts of the early 1900s. Readers often highlight the atmospheric setting of Nova Scotia as a central element that grounds the narrative's emotional stakes. The prose is frequently noted for its balance between the intimate, personal growth of the protagonist and the broader historical conflict regarding medical authority. Critics and readers alike have pointed to the book's ability to humanize the transition from home-based care to hospital-centered birth practices. The story remains a staple for those interested in the intersection of women's history and the evolution of medical ethics.