Set in Pforzheim, Germany, THE WOMAN AT THE WHEEL by Penny Haw opens in 1859 when Bertha Ringer was ten years old. She is the third daughter of a wealthy builder. However, she is not like her sisters who were willing to do as their husbands wished. She wanted to be valued and respected just the same as men were. She wanted her ideas to matter. Carl Benz was smart enough to treat her the way she deserved and together they made a dream come true-one that shaped the future of the world.
THE WOMAN AT THE WHEEL by Penny Haw is a work of historical fiction based on the life of Bertha Benz. While it was her husband Carl who created the first prototype automobile, one that led to the iconic Mercedes-Benz automobiles of today, she played a huge role in this undertaking. Penny Haw brings to life a protagonist who took an active interest in her husband's work, so much so that she worked alongside him. There was much more to her than her interest and that is what makes this story so fascinating. Reading this book, I had to ask myself if there would even be Mercedes-Benz vehicles today if it weren't for Bertha Benz. The strength of the love the couple shared is skillfully depicted. Even though they knew and understood each other well, it was Bertha who could see what was really needed to realize their dreams.
For me, a good work of historical fiction that is based on an actual person should make me want to know more about this person. THE WOMAN AT THE WHEEL accomplishes this. This well-crafted novel showcases that Bertha Benz is a woman who should be recognized for her accomplishments. Highly recommended.
Inspiring historical fiction based on the real life of Bertha Benz, whose husband built the first prototype automobile, which eventually evolved into the Mercedes-Benz marque.
"Unfortunately, only a girl again."
From a young age, Cäcilie Bertha Ringer is fascinated by her father's work as a master builder in Pforzheim, Germany. But those five words, which he wrote next to her name in the family Bible, haunt Bertha.
Years later, Bertha meets Carl Benz and falls in love—with him and his extraordinary dream of building a horseless carriage. Bertha has such faith in him that she invests her dowry in his plans, a dicey move since they alone believe in the machine. When Carl's partners threaten to withdraw their support, he's ready to cut ties. Bertha knows the decision would ruin everything. Ignoring the cynics, she takes matters into her own hands, secretly planning a scheme that will either hasten the family's passage to absolute derision or prove their genius. What Bertha doesn't know is that Carl is on the cusp of making a deal with their nemesis. She's not only risking her marriage and their life's work, but is also up against the patriarchy, Carl's own self-doubt, and the clock.
Like so many other women, Bertha lived largely in her husband's shadow, but her contributions are now celebrated in this inspiring story of perseverance, resilience, and love.
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