"The Rules Do Not Apply" is a memoir by author Ariel Levy, detailing her personal experiences and challenges. The book explores themes of loss, motherhood, and the unpredictability of life, as Levy recounts her journey through unexpected events that shaped her identity. In the narrative, Levy reflects on her career as a writer and the societal expectations placed on women. She candidly shares her struggles with balancing ambition and personal fulfillment, ultimately emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-acceptance in the face of adversity.