First published 1976
Dr. Sarah Chen examines the latest batch of test animals in her laboratory. The rats show familiar symptoms: tremors, disorientation, and gradual organ failure. What begins as routine toxicology research becomes something far more troubling when Chen realizes the lead contamination patterns don't match standard exposure models. Her supervisor pressures her to publish results that support the pharmaceutical company funding their work. Chen must choose between career advancement and scientific integrity as she uncovers evidence that challenges accepted theories about heavy metal poisoning. The animals in her care become more than research subjects as Chen grapples with the ethics of her profession and the human cost of suppressed medical data.
Genres: science-fiction, animals, medical, academic
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: moral-dilemma, whistleblower
160 pages · Unknown Binding · MSS Information Corp
Content warnings: animal-death