It is May 1979 and Paul Barone is an academic dean who is constantly reminded by everyone around him how lucky he is that he has a prestigious job and a wonderful family. Unfortunately what no one knows is that Paul does not have what he wants most.

Dr. Alex Vitale, the beautiful chairwoman of the science department, is thrilled her first novel is being published. After sharing her good news with Paul, she suggests that they write a novel together that will challenge the societal excesses that have been occurring during the last two decades. When Paul finally agrees to take...