This book strips away the delicate talk about the artistry of geisha life. She confirms that there was an element of slavery involved. Geishas were sold into indenture and the money went to their families. If their contracts were extended, their families were paid again for their services. The life of a hot springs geisha was rather cheap, and only worth buying for a few years. Disease and suicide were not uncommon.

Masuda makes her painful story readable with a distinctive voice. The translation has a refreshingly casual aspect, as the translator captures conversations in Japanese vernacular.