The Woman at the Wheel is a fantastic historical fiction read that is not to be missed! I always appreciate when a hist fic book brings me into a world of a person or topic I'm unfamiliar with and can learn a lot from, and this one checked that box. This is the story of the accomplished Bertha Benz and her role and place in the invention of the motor wagon, alongside her husband Carl Benz. Fill.ed with rich detail that was clearly well-researched, this is a story that touches on much, including purpose, marriage, dreams, and perseverance that is sure to resonate with many readers. Immersive from the start with excellent writing, storytelling, and characters, Penny Haw knocked it out of the park with this book. Highly recommend to all historical fiction lovers who love their reads with a biographical feel!

Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the gifted e-copy!

Carl Benz is most famously known for inventing the automobile. However, little is known about his wife, Bertha Benz. She was the first person to drive a car for a long distance. In this historical novel, it tells the story of Bertha’s marriage to her husband and the invention of the first car.

I must confess that I had never heard of Bertha Benz until I read this novel. However, I must say that she was a very admirable woman. She is fascinated with her father’s work as a master builder. When she learns that her father was disappointed with her birth, she is hurt because of her admiration for him. Bertha doesn’t want to marry. However, her plans change when she meets Carl Benz. Carl makes an absurd claim that he will invent a horseless carriage. Bertha resolves to help make Carl’s dream come true. Bertha proves to be Carl’s most ardent supporter, and her resilience helped make Carl’s invention a success! Therefore, I rooted for her throughout the novel because of her cleverness, resourcefulness, and determination!

Overall, this novel is about dreams, marriage, and expectations. The message in this book is to never give up. I liked the characters in this novel. I also found this story to be well-written and meticulously researched. However, there were a few scenes that I thought were drawn out and a bit repetitive. I also did not like where the story ended. I wished that it would also tell the story of her later life. Hopefully, there may be a sequel! I also like how this novel emphasizes that Bertha was an accomplished woman in her own right! The Woman at Wheel shines light on an important but forgotten historical figure! I recommend this for fans of Enchantress of Numbers, The Engineer’s Wife, and Beautiful Invention!

4.5 stars. What a fantastic story! I loved learning about Bertha Benz' role in the invention of the "motor wagon." I knew little about her husband, or the invention itself, so it was fun to read about how they made the engine work and dealt with problems that came up. It was sweet to read about their wonderful marriage, and how much he appreciated her. I didn't know she took the car on the road to show it off with her sons -so amazing! I did feel it ended a bit abruptly, but I appreciated the historical note in the end. I will definitely read more by this author. And the audio is great!

This book was incredible! I took my time to read and enjoy the journey! Bertha felt loved and appreciated until she reads in the Bible that she was just a girl. But here is what I took from that! She knew she was awesome and even though her dad felt that way at the beginning - he showed her in other ways that she was more than just anything! She knew what she wanted and fought hard for it! She supported a husband who loved her and through her support and love - brought the world his genius! I really enjoyed this story! I thought the author did a wonderful job and will read more of her books! Happy Women's History month!

Thanks to NetGalley for this story! All opinions and thoughts are my own.

This historical novel follows Cacilie Bertha Ringer journey to find her husband Carl Benz as well as their journey to build a horeless carriage following other inventions. In 1859, Cäcilie Bertha Ringer is ten and she listens to her father talk about his work and he’s a master builder in Pforzheim, Germany. The story is a fascinating one. It is very interesting following the process of inventing something like that. The story takes place over several years and as is probably the norm with inventors, there are a lot of setbacks and repetition. I enjoyed watching the discovery process as well as a woman pursuing as well as supporting her husband's drive to discovery new things as well as demonstrate to others. The strong woman representation especially during a different time reflects the spirit and pursuit of knowledge. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for th eoppotunity.

Bertha Benz was a wife and mother, and potentially a brilliant inventor who recognized the impossibility of a woman being recognized for her contributions. Sometimes it seemed even she herself didn’t believe how capable she might be.

Not a lot of facts are known about Bertha Benz and her daily life with her famous husband, Carl Benz. The author of this historical fiction does a stellar job filling in the blanks of how spunky Bertha must have been, knowing about her substantial contributions to her husband’s invention, her shared passion for his motorwagen project, and their relationship.

The note of a truly enjoyable historical fiction might be the inability to separate the history from the fiction. Several of the side-stories of personal situations or social events lent this quality to the story of the life of Bertha Benz with Carl Benz. A few pieces of correspondence are featured through the story that give support to the facts of their life, and some relationships just fit with who the characters may have been when they weren’t being documented.

Overall, the story was so interesting and earned 4 out of 5 stars. It’s hard to imagine what life would be like without cars now, and reading the skepticism they encountered during its development was eye-opening. The book could be recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction, especially from the mid-1800s, and learning the stories of a powerful and inspiring woman.

I love historical fiction stories by women about women, that put women back into the pages of history where they belong and have always to been — too often have their contributions been omitted, forgotten, or overlooked. This book is precisely that regarding Berta Benz and her integral role alongside her husband Carl Benz in the pioneering invention of the gas powered auto and it becoming the first mass produced automobile. She not only supported him in his dreams and vision, but as the author clearly shows made them possible and at key moments along the way made them a reality. She stepped in during negotiations, worked with clients and the new invention, made key contacts and created awareness for it, and made the FIRST long distance test drive - just to name a few of her roles — despite being as some thought “only a girl”. She turned that notion on its head and made it only a girl could do some of the things she did, especially when Carl got in the way of himself. She inspired many and still does, especially in a field where women are still a minority.
The only con was for me at least that the pace moved a little slow for me and I at times got lost in the in-depth technical aspects and discussion of the auto and it’s intricacies/invention path. Some could be due to lack of interest and understanding in those specific areas/fields, but other readers may enjoy and appreciate them. This could definitely vary reader to reader subjectively.
Either way this author did an amazing job with her debut novel and I will clearly look and think a different way when I see or think of Mercedes-Benz vehicles!

Penny Haw's "The Woman at the Wheel" is a captivating exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of redemption. Set against the backdrop of the rugged South African landscape, this novel takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and profound revelations.

At the heart of the story is Sarah Turner, a woman grappling with the aftermath of a tragic accident that has left her physically and emotionally scarred. Determined to reclaim her independence and sense of purpose, Sarah embarks on a cross-country road trip, accompanied only by her loyal dog and the haunting memories of her past.

As Sarah navigates the open road, she encounters a colorful cast of characters who challenge her perceptions and force her to confront the demons she thought she had left behind. From the enigmatic hitchhiker with a troubled past to the wise old mechanic who offers her sage advice, each encounter serves as a catalyst for Sarah's journey of self-discovery.

What sets "The Woman at the Wheel" apart is its richly drawn characters and evocative prose. Haw's vivid descriptions bring the South African landscape to life, immersing readers in a world of sweeping vistas, dusty highways, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Through Sarah's eyes, we witness the beauty and brutality of the natural world, as well as the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

But perhaps the novel's greatest strength lies in its exploration of themes such as forgiveness, redemption, and the healing power of self-acceptance. As Sarah confronts her past and embraces her vulnerabilities, she learns that true strength comes not from hiding our scars, but from embracing them as a testament to our resilience and capacity for growth.

While "The Woman at the Wheel" may be classified as a work of fiction, its message resonates deeply with readers on a universal level. It reminds us that life is a journey filled with unexpected detours and challenges, but also moments of profound beauty and joy. In the end, it's not the destination that matters, but the lessons we learn and the connections we forge along the way.

In conclusion, "The Woman at the Wheel" is a beautifully crafted novel that will linger in the hearts and minds of readers long after they've turned the final page. With its compelling narrative, memorable characters, and poignant themes, it's a book that celebrates the transformative power of self-discovery and the resilience of the human spirit.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark Publishers for an advance copy for my honest review.

Fans of historical fiction will greatly enjoy this book. While it is a work of fiction it is based upon the real life story of Bertha Benz and the beginning of the Mercedes-Benz car company. It was well researched and written. I also enjoy hearing stories about women who have greatly contributed to our history yet often do not get the recognition they deserve.

I really enjoyed this historical fiction about the start of the Benz family and the focus on Bertha Benz and her roll in the story was absolutely engaging. I always learn something from historical fictions as I look up the facts to see what is true and what is fictional and I’m glad that Bertha’s story has been told for her and all the other women who were told they were “just another girl.”

"The Woman at the Wheel" is a well-written and enjoyable historical fiction novel that sheds light on a fascinating historical figure and the early days of the automobile. Whether you're interested in women's history, technological innovation, or captivating stories, this book might be worth checking out.

"You also changed my mind about women and their power in this life. I told my daughter that just as the world lies at her brother’s feet, it lies at hers.”

"Unfortunately, only a girl again."

My thoughts: This book is so good! Firstly I always love a book that sparks an interest in me that I never thought I'd have and now I'm obsessed with this story! Clearly this author did her research in all things Benz and I can't believe how much I was sucked in from the start! Also the characters are awesome! Bertha is a BA female MC, probably one of my favorites I've read about and I had no idea about anything in this book so I love learning something new that leads me down really intriguing rabbit holes! Anyway! you really should check this one out!!

Also Happy release day! (cause it's still October 3rd in Colorado!)

I liked the book for its look into this independent and strong woman’s life. However, the telling of her story was a little dry and disheartening with all of the failures, bad decisions, disloyal friends, and bad business partners.

I really appreciated the Author’s Note at the end to help complete the story of the rest of her life.

I had really high hopes for The Woman at the Wheel. I typically love reading stories about women who had a hand in shaping history but due to their gender, are often left out of history books. The first quarter of the book was really good. I was engaged and interested in the story. Almost as soon as Bertha and Carl got married, however, I started losing interest. The pacing flattened out and the tale became repetitive. I understand that Carl had several failed business partnerships but I feel that the author could have taken some liberties here and condensed them all into one ginormous heart breaking failure. By the time we got to her famous drive, I couldn't bring myself to be excited for her because I was already so bored of her. If you prefer your historical fiction to be more historically accurate or already have an interest in either Bertha Benz or the invention of the automobile, you will probably love this one.

I love a good inspiring story - I had no idea about. Bertha Benz and the story of her husband Carl Benz - the man behind the prototype of Mercedes Benz. I love reading about strong women whose lives have remained behind their husband's shadow, I am glad that her contributions are now celebrated in this inspiring story.

*Set in Germany 1859-1888
*Based on the true story of Bertha & Carl Mercedes
*Bertha is a strong character who is the driving force behind her husband’s success
*I thought Bertha was gutsy to go on a long test drive with her sons without telling her husband or anyone else where they were going- good thing they knew how to fix the problems! Shows how determined, strong, and smart she was.
*I loved that Bertha fell in love with Carl because he treated her as an equal
*Well-written, draws the reader in at the beginning
*Reading Group Guide included

What a neat story based on a true life. I had never heard of Bertha prior to this book and now I'm anxious to learn more. Amazing read for anyone interested in history and/or cars.

An extraordinary story of grit and determination. A unique and inspirational love story. Lovers of historical fiction will gobble this up.

Firstly, this cover is absolutely stunning!

Penny Haw is an amazing author, and I feel that she brings history to life in a way that jumps right off of the page. She seamlessly weaves history and historical fiction, and I can only begin to imagine the amount of research she must have done for this novel, as I felt totally immersed from the first page to the last.

This novel tells the story of Bertha Benz. She was a strong, determined, loyal, and hard-working woman who fought for an invention she believed in, and played a major role in the invention and success of the horseless carriage, along with her husband Carl Benz. She pushed her husband to keep going, fought for opportunities, and stood strong even when times were very rough. This book truly has so much in it: the backstory behind the company that would become Mercedes Benz, both heartwarming and heartbreaking moments, historical detail, gripping moments, and so, so much more!

If you like Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this book! I look forward to reading what Ms. Haw writes next!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC of this book! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This book follows Bertha Benz (Mercedes Benz) and her life with Carl and all of his inventions. She played a crucial role in his success, as well as supported him when no one else would. I could relate to her in being a wife to a man who runs his own business, which isn’t always easy when you’re first starting.
I was fascinated by this book as a lover of historical fiction this was such an original story concept. I was happy to read about a totally different time in history as WW2 novels flood the genre. Bertha was the epitome of a strong woman and I enjoyed getting to know the woman behind the man.