Lady Tan's Circle of Women follows the life of Tan Yunxian, a woman born into an elite family in 15th-century China. Despite societal norms that deem educated women as worthless, Yunxian is raised by her grandparents to become useful. Her grandmother, one of the few female doctors, teaches her the principles of Chinese medicine, focusing on the Four Examinations: looking, listening, touching, and asking. Yunxian learns about women's health issues, particularly those related to childbirth, alongside her friend Meiling, a midwife-in-training. The two girls form a strong bond, sharing their dreams and challenges, even as they navigate the societal restrictions placed on them. However, Yunxian's life takes a turn when she enters an arranged marriage. Her new family imposes strict rules, forbidding her from practicing medicine or maintaining her friendship with Meiling. As Yunxian struggles with her new role, she must find ways to break free from these constraints and make a lasting impact. The story explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge, highlighting how Yunxian's contributions to medicine endure through the centuries.

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