The Only Woman in the Room

This is an absolutely fascinating story (albeit historical fiction) about the legendary Hollywood actress, Hedy Lamarr and her fight to help end WWII. To think that the only reason that the amazing invention that she and a fellow entertainer designed and patented was turned down by the United States Navy was because she was a woman is absolutely outrageous. She was not just a legendary actress in the 40’s but with her scientific mind was able to create technology for the war effort that later contributed to the development of mobile phones! Who knew? But unfortunately this was all occurring at a time when women were supposed to be nothing but beautiful objects in public and perfect housewives when at home.

From what I have read this story does take some liberties with Ms. Lamarr’s actual history as far as her background and the life she lived when she was in the Hollywood limelight but not by much. Even so, this is a very well written story and interesting one as you see how she had to live several lives – entertainer, daughter, wife, and mother – all while trying to get by on more than just her beauty. She went through a horrible time as the Nazi regime was beginning to build while married to her first husband who was extremely cruel and from whom she fortunately was able to escape. This is a very good read and one I finitely recommend.

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