This fictional novel by Alan Hart follows young doctor Richard Cameron's quest to find an effective treatment for anemia, beginning in the west coast city of Seaforth, a fictional representation of 1920s Seattle. Within the medical-research plot, Hart intricately weaves the stories of two men—Cameron and radiologist Sandy Farquhar—whose personalities and bodies do not conform to the norms of the social or medical establishment.

Dedicated to medicine and the belief that scientific knowledge can alleviate human pain and suffering, these men must pursue their careers at great personal cost. Praised in its time for its insights into the inner workings of the medical field.

Alan Hart was the first known transgender graduate of the University of Oregon Medical School, earning his degree in 1917. His pioneering work on tuberculosis saved countless lives.