Eight stars
There is a patch of ground in Tennessee dedicated to the science of death, where human remains lie exposed to be studied for their secrets. The real-life scientist who founded the "Body Farm" has broken cold cases and revolutionized forensics . . . and now he spins an astonishing tale inspired by his own experiences.
Jefferson Bass produces a stellar fourth book in the series, pulling away from straight forensic anthropology and moving towards a history lesson tied to the atomic bomb. When a body is found to be contaminated with a radioactive isotope, everyone is left scrambling for cover (literally and figuratively). When it all traces back to one of the Manhattan Project outposts, the pieces begin to come together and the mystery deepens. The memory of an elderly woman who worked on the Project and her murdered ex-husband may hold the key to it all. As bodies keep popping up and a radiation exposure wreaks havoc, something must be done before it's too late. Bass tasks it up a notch with this scintillating story!
Developed at the height of the Second World War, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, became a key outpost of the Manhattan Project. Working on nuclear bomb development, Oak Ridge helped foster stunning careers, as well as many dark secrets during the race for military superiority. When the body of a brilliant retired physicist is removed from a frozen swimming pool, the secrets begin to take shape.
Popular anthropologist Dr. Bill Brockton has been surrounded by death for much of his academic life, especially after creating the Body Farm on the campus of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He's called to Oak Ridge to help with the autopsy of Dr. Leonard Novak, whose body has been preserved in the frozen pool. When the process begins, a radioactive pellet is discovered, causing panic for all at the medical event, including Dr. Brockton. Who would have killed Dr. Novak and why poison him with such a horrific weapon?
As Dr. Brockton learns a little more about Oak Ridge, its scientists, and the larger Manhattan Project, he trips upon Dr. Novak's ex-wife, who has stories from the wartime development of the community. Her stories could not only prove to be the key to needed answers, but also open up the discussion of leaked intel to the Soviets at the height of the Cold War arms race.
While Dr. Brockton must balance trying to show compassion for those who have been hurt by exposure, he also wants to know more about the truths Oak Ridge might hold and how Dr. Novak could be at the centre. Meeting an inquisitive librarian, Dr. Brockton allows himself to be immersed in history and perhaps a little romance, while still holding vigil for his last lover. When the truth comes to the surface, Dr. Brockton might be too late, but he refuse to stand down until there is no hope left. A brilliant addition with more history and less anthropological plot lines.
While this may sound a little melodramatic, the story is full of history and much intrigue. Bass takes the reader on a behind the scenes history lesson of a small Tennessee town and its importance to the larger Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb. Add to the mix the usual anthropological lessons, as well as, alongside some great medical factoids about radiation, and you have a stellar book that is sure to attract attention for anyone who is a Jefferson Bass admirer. Strong narrative direction provides a great foundation that is complemented with strong characters and great themes that tie in to better represent this piece that straddles two times in recent US history.
The plot developments flavour the larger story, peppering twists throughout, providing a sense of unpredictability. While history is laid out on a path that many know well, there are both fictional and fact-based plot points that help add depth for the curious reader. I could not get enough of this book (and the larger series), which has me eager to keep reading. Even years later, after my first read through this book, I am feeling the buzz that is the Bone Farm.
Kudos Mr. Bass, for keeping me highly entertained.
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