The book describes how her ambition was forged as a child after seeing
her mother patronised by a solicitor. It tells how the press were quick
to pigeon-hole and harass her, leading to disciplinary proceedings for
'self-advertising'. Enmeshed in a world of men, Helena Normanton faced a
constant struggle to establish herself against a backdrop of prejudice,
misogyny and discrimination -- as when solicitors, fearful of the
unknown, were reluctant to instruct her, leaving her to take on poor
person's cases, dock briefs and those 'deemed suitable for a woman'.
But Helena Normanton was a force to be reckoned with. She was not just
the first woman to be admitted to an Inn of Court, hold briefs in the
High Court and Old Bailey, and (with Rose Heilbron) be made a King's
Counsel, but a prolific author, leading feminist and speaker who
entranced audiences at home and abroad. Along with the controversies
that eternally surrounded her progress and her foibles, this is all
contained in this captivating book.