2015 Flashback: The novel idea that turned into ‘Scientists and the Spy’

We’re incredibly proud of this one.

In fall 2014, we announced that neighbor and writer Anthony Dobranski had started work on researching a novel that would be set here in Forest Hills. It would be historical fiction featuring some of the real-life work taking place at the National Bureau of Standards during World War Two.

In spring 2015, Dobranski was ready to begin. He and Forest Hills Connection hosted a launch event. Neighborhood historian Margery Elfin and NBS historian Jim Schooley were featured speakers. The first chapter of “The Scientists and the Spy” had just published. And then, chapter by chapter, Dobranski started filling out the story of Tech Corporal Enos Olsen and government gal Dorothy Sharpe, both relatively new to Washington and both suddenly finding themselves in the middle of a murder mystery.

The chapters are being published one by one at ForestHillsConnection.com, and feature photos and illustrations from the era. The first eleven chapters are listed below. We look forward to following Enos and Dorothy’s continued adventures in 2016!

Chapter 1 – Enos spots a mysterious peeping Tom.
Chapter 2 – A dinner party has uninvited guests.
Chapter 3 – A fight!
Chapter 4 – A bruised Enos gets noticed by the brass.
Chapter 5 – A secret threat!
Chapter 6 – A chance meeting on the L2 bus.
Chapter 7 – An invitation to dinner.
Chapter 8 – A clue in the oddest place.
Chapter 9 – A dance at Glen Echo Park.
Chapter 10 – Dorothy gets a new job.
Chapter 11 – Of sound and bombs.

Chapters 1-10 are also available as a free ebook. Find more information on downloading the ebook here.