Renu Krishnan, an Indian-born, American-educated scientist, discovers how NO (nitric oxide, now recognized as the causative agent of penile erection) can be used therapeutically to help men suffering from erectile dysfunction, while her husband, the Israeli scientist Jephtah Cohn, develops a new approach to ovulation prediction. When they gain government approval to manufacture and market their discoveries they are transformed into Wall Street darlings.

Drawing on his experience as a founder, former officer, director, and advisor of similar biotech ventures, Djerassi examines the competing demands of academia and the fate of women who succeed in breaking the glass ceiling of male-dominated enterprises.