Phenix City dives into the notorious history of Phenix City, Alabama, a town rife with corruption, crime, and political intrigue in the mid-20th century. Strickland and Wortman provide a gripping narrative of how the city became a symbol of lawlessness and the extreme measures taken by its residents to rid themselves of the corrupt political machine. The book delves into the complex interplay between local politics, organized crime, and citizens' fight for justice, capturing a dark chapter in American history.