“The Only Woman in the Room” is a historical fiction novel by Marie Benedict that tells the remarkable, true story of Hedy Lamarr, the Austrian‑born actress who became a Hollywood icon and an unsung scientific pioneer.

While celebrated for her beauty and glamorous film career, Lamarr’s intellect and ingenuity were largely overlooked. The novel traces her journey from a restrictive life in Austria, including an abusive marriage to a munitions magnate, to her escape and reinvention in Hollywood.

Amidst the glitz and challenges of stardom, Lamarr secretly co-invented frequency‑hopping spread spectrum technology, a breakthrough that laid the foundation for modern wireless communication, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.

Through Lamarr’s story, the book explores the tension between public image and private brilliance, shedding light on the systemic barriers women faced – and still face – in science, innovation, and recognition. It is a powerful tribute to resilience, intelligence, and the quiet yet profound ways women shape history.