The Engineer's Wife: A Novel of the Brooklyn Bridge

Emily Roebling is an unsung hero of engineering and women's rights. Her story deserves to be told, and this historical fiction book does her justice. From her early years as a forward-thinking woman determined to make a change in the world to take on the challenge of completing the Brooklyn Bridge after her husband was injured on site, Emily’s determination shines through every page.This book offers readers insight into Emily’s struggles with being a female engineer during a time when women were not accepted in such roles; she faced resistance from both men and society at large but persevered despite it all. The author has done an excellent job bringing life back into this forgotten story - we get glimpses into what motivated Emily throughout her journey, as well as how she managed difficult obstacles along the way while keeping true to herself and advocating for others like herself who wanted more out of life than what they had been given by society up until that point.Overall, this is an inspiring tale about one woman's courage against all odds, which will leave you feeling inspired. It would be perfect for any reader interested in learning more about history or those looking for stories featuring strong female protagonists doing remarkable things - even if their accomplishments are often overlooked or forgotten over time!

Tracey Enerson Wood combines the best of fact and fiction in her novel, "The Engineer's Wife." It is the astounding story of the woman behind the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, an engineering marvel of its time. Emily Warren Roebling was the wife of Washington Roebling, who vowed to complete the project after his father, John Roebling, who designed the bridge, died of tetanus following a ferry accident. Washington himself becomes disabled after suffering from "caisson" disease, which I have always heard referred to as "the bends," which he acquired from his frequent visits to (and too rapid exits from) a compressed air chamber deep below the waters of the East River in New York. Emily helps Washington fulfill his promise by becoming a courier of his instructions from their home to the worksite. Woods's portrayal of the inequalities for women in the workplace and even fashion are quite rich. Emily is the subject of much derision for venturing into a "man's world." Indeed, Emily might have been quite the suffragette if not for the fact that acting as her husband's proxy took all of her time.All historical fiction books throw in made-up characters, but Woods really pushes the limits by inventing a romance between Emily and P.T. Barnum, the famous circus showman, who actually worked in Brooklyn at the same time, but of whom there is no evidence at all of a relationship with Emily. Having said that, those portions were some of my favorite parts of the book, particularly because I am so unversed in the logistics of engineering. Woods did her best to "dumb it down" for novices like me, but I still found myself at a loss for understanding exactly how the foundations for suspension bridges are built underwater.Woods brings the post Civil War time period to life by weaving in the politics, corruptions, scandals, social mores, and the complicated familial relationships of Emily and Washington. An interesting read!

I'm a fan of the gilded age and a champion of women! This was touched on in S2 of Gilded Age and wanted to learn more. Well written.

This isn't a bad book, but it isn't great. The book is written, but the style is a little stiff. The author never really made me care about the characters. Then it was disappointing to learn that the love triangle which made up a great deal of the story, was purely fiction. This book is more fiction than historical.

I learned so much and fortunately my husband is an engineer to fill in the gaps of somethings i did not understand such as the caissons which the thiught of working in was terrifying to me. Absolutely amazing endeavors and dedication by all involved. Thank you for writing this story.

Felt I needed to go back and test myself on my math, etc.

Arrived quickly and in great condition.

I love reading books of this genre: those striving to be as historically accurate as possible within the context of a story that must include speculation on the part of the author. Intimate information being generally unavailable, the author creates a storyline that feels true to existing historical narrative. Prior to reading this novel, David McCullough was the historical non-fiction writer to whom I turned within this genre. He delivers captivating works of historical accuracy within the context of a storyline in which his discretion, imagination and writing style are exemplary. The only reason for four stars is that, in comparison to the writing of Mr. McCullough, Ms. Wood's narrative seemed to drag occasionally. That said, I would not hesitate to read any other historical novels of this genre by Ms. Wood in the future.

Great piece of historical fiction. Puts you back into the 1800's.

Interesting from a historical point of view although some literary licence was used. Enjoyed reading it and liked the characters.

Bought for my wife.