Edith Van Eyes wants freedom to paint fearlessly. Her husband Laurence, a charismatic minister, wants to be rid of her and keep her fortune.
A conspiracy is set in motion, and three women enter the picture: Maude Goff, a bold, brilliant actress seeking riches. Vivian, a vulnerable, beautiful prostitute pursuing a mad plan to escape the clutches of Blackie McKenna, one of Boss Tweed’s most fearsome thugs. And Luce, a devoted house maid torn between love and loyalty.