Libby Clark takes a feminist approach to science—and solving a murder—in this “gripping puzzler of a mystery” set in WWII Tennessee (Library Journal).
Oak Ridge, Tennessee is known as the Secret City. It rose seemingly overnight in 1942, built by the US government. No one was quite sure what its purpose was, but there was certainly something going on . . .
Libby Clark, a gutsy Bryn Mawr graduate, is determined to find her place as a scientist in a world where women are thought better suited to housework and marriage. As the only female scientist in the top-secret facility, Libby is excited to begin what she believes is important government research. But she soon discovers that something more sinister is afoot.
One frosty night she finds the dead body of her roommate’s sister sprawled behind the bleachers. The police don’t seem to think finding the killer is important, so it’s up to Libby to make sense of the situation. Aided by a band of like-minded scientists, Libby follows every possible lead . . . even as they take her to a shocking conclusion.
Scandal in the Secret City is the first book in the Libby Clark Mysteries, which also includes Treason in the Secret City and Sabotage in the Secret City.
“Fanning re-creates the atmosphere at Oak Ridge effectively, and her exploration of the ethical issues surrounding security are timely today. A promising new series.” —Booklist
“Readers will be engrossed by . . . [the] authentic details.” —Library Journal, starred review
“An intriguing change from Fanning . . . bolstered by thought-provoking details of the obstacles women faced in the wartime workforce.” —Kirkus Reviews

World War II