Scoundrel Time

In 1952, Hellman joined the ranks of intellectuals & artists called before Congress to testify about political subversion. Terrified yet defiant, Hellman refused to incriminate herself or others, & managed to avoid trial. Nonetheless the experience brought devastating controversy & loss. First published in 1972, her retelling of the time features a remarkable cast of characters, including her lover, novelist Dashiell Hammett, a slew of famous friends & colleagues, & a pack of scoundrels: ruthless, ambitious politicians & those who complied with their demands.