Baltimore, 1849. Under a shadow of scandal, the young Irish Brianna Baird flees her home at Fells Point. She has little cash, and no worthwhile occupation, for what use is a seamstress's talents in the raucous, bawdy city of New Orleans? Without family support, her only chance of survival is offered by brothel madam Nancy DeSalle and the dashing but questionable gambler, Edward Spina, who falls in love with her. In a desperate alliance with these two members of society's underbelly, Brianna embarks on a journey through the Vieux Carré's debauched and glittering world. With the aid of her freedwoman Emma, she learns the ways of the Voodoo Queen.After gaining freedom for Emma's enslaved husband and son, Brianna and Edward flee with them to San Francisco. There she becomes one of the most sought after madams in the gold rush parlor house trade. At last will Brianna become the mistress of her own destiny? Inspired by a true story.