The Weather House

by Gary E. Eddey

When three strangers arrive on Block Island, RI just months before the US enters WW1, suspicion fills the air. A close-knit family working together at the United States Weather Station doesn't trust these strangers -- for what turns out to be a very good reason. Even before the first murder occurs, the Weather House crew realizes they need back-up, but who can they trust? It becomes their burden to unlock these strangers' true objectives, which, if carried out, will decidedly change the course of our nation's history. With the family's two sisters at the center of the action, The Weather House -- equal parts international espionage, mystery, and history -- explores relationships and communication, motives, hidden agendas and loss, and the purpose of being. The greatest triumph of the author, beyond the story, is the creation of such memorable characters and the reader finds him/herself cheering the girls on as they help uncover why three strange men have suddenly appeared on their island. One of the sisters has had to overcome a significant physical disability as the result of an unfortunate accident. The author, a physician, has worked within the disabilities world and portrays the struggles and triumphs of these girls with aplomb. Set at a time when death and destruction are synonymous with an isolated island life, Block Island and its inhabitants become a metaphor for life in this classic American tale where the line blurs between villain and hero. Gary E. Eddey's debut novel shows that even a small island can hold a very big secret.

318 pages, Paperback

First published September 3, 2011

Reviews

[Kris Munoz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. A little slow to start but once into it the book was hard to put down. I loved the character development and the historical aspects of the story.

[Matt Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's an intriguing narrative here blended with a surprising amount of historical context. A must-read for anyone who's ever been to, or heard of, Block Island.

[Karin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave it 4 stars because the story is very interesting...not 5 stars because the author repeats himself constantly. Growing up on Block Island I was familiar with all the locations and family names. I was astounded I had never heard of this part of it’s history. A story of family bonds and love, perseverance, and United States history. If you can get past the repetitiveness this is a really good read.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave three stars because this book is about a chapter of American History that I had never heard before. But I gave it only three stars because I found the writing repetitious. I was also disappointed with the lack of character development. I suggest reading this book only if you love history. And definitely read Moby Dick first, otherwise the many references don't make sense.

[Robert Van Rensselaer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memorable

The relationships between the main characters, especially the two sisters, set in Block Island, the descriptions of which remain essentially the same after the passage of more than 100 years, will stay with me long after turning the last page of this compelling story.

[stella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossing

Couldn't put it down. A must read for history lovers. The characters will steal your heart and not let go.