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La melodia del vento
È arrivata l'estate su Chapel Isle, l'isola remota e selvaggia che la lessicografa Abigail Harker ha deciso di eleggere come casa, dopo che una tragedia famigliare le ha brutalmente rivoluzionato la vita. Abita nel cottage del guardiano del faro, un luogo incredibilmente suggestivo, dove a poco a poco ritrova un po' di serenità. Ma adesso, con l'inverno ormai alle spalle, Chapel Isle viene invasa da torme di turisti, non sempre gradevoli, almeno per gli abitanti. Fra costoro un gruppo di sommozzatori alla ricerca di un tesoro affondato insieme a una nave lungo le coste frastagliate dell'isola. Sommozzatori e gente del posto incominciano a discutere di certi indizi che porterebbero al ritrovamento del tesoro e che potrebbero essere nascosti proprio nel cottage di Abigail, che si trova involontariamente al centro dell'attenzione di tutti, compreso un avvenente turista... Ma non è facile, nella marea di persone che si riversano sull'isola per le vacanze, distinguere i visitatori innocui da quanti nascondono intenzioni poco chiare. E Abigail si troverà nella condizione di dover scegliere se restare, rischiando magari di spezzarsi il cuore un'altra volta e mettendo a repentaglio la sua stessa sicurezza, oppure andare via, lasciandosi sopraffare dai pericoli del presente e dai fantasmi del passato...
332 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
12 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 5, 2012
The Definition of Wind is the sequel to The Language of Sand and picks up basically where the first book left off. Block's writing style is easy and flows well, plus the setting of a lighthouse is very appealing to me (people who know my work would understand).
The story did move along, however, it seemingly held the same storyline for most of the book. Abigail is literally running all over the island, running into the towns people over and over again. The "love" interest was always suspicious and not much of a surprise at the end. Perhaps it wasn't meant to be. Abigail also reflects more often then not on her tragic past and the story seems to be stuck in that place for too much of the time. I remembered the Language of Sand well enough not to have to revisit as much of it as she felt necessary.
I intentionally milked the book along because I liked the main character and as I mentioned earlier, the setting. It could easily have been read in a day.
I don't know if Block is writing another book about Abigail Harker, but if so, I would read it.
I enjoyed the back of the book where she included her inspiration for writing these books. I also watched that same program on haunted lighthouses, although that was after I wrote my novel.
The story did move along, however, it seemingly held the same storyline for most of the book. Abigail is literally running all over the island, running into the towns people over and over again. The "love" interest was always suspicious and not much of a surprise at the end. Perhaps it wasn't meant to be. Abigail also reflects more often then not on her tragic past and the story seems to be stuck in that place for too much of the time. I remembered the Language of Sand well enough not to have to revisit as much of it as she felt necessary.
I intentionally milked the book along because I liked the main character and as I mentioned earlier, the setting. It could easily have been read in a day.
I don't know if Block is writing another book about Abigail Harker, but if so, I would read it.
I enjoyed the back of the book where she included her inspiration for writing these books. I also watched that same program on haunted lighthouses, although that was after I wrote my novel.
April 16, 2013
The sequel of The Language of Sand will not disappoint you. This series will touch every woman’s soul. The continuation of Abgail’s personal growth and process of becoming accustomed to life on Chapel Isle is enlightening, yet with enough suspense you cannot pick the book down until the end. The language in which Block writes intertwines beautifully with Abby’s career as a lexicographer. Block’s novels are quick, easy and very enjoyable reads. Great for lying on a beach and reading – I read in April, but I can wish! The only negative aspect for me was that Block weaved throughout a lot of background information from the first novel; which is great unless you recently read it as I have. It was very repetitive for me. Although you could read this novel as a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading The Language of Sand first. These are her only two novels, although she wrote The Lightning Rule under the Brett Ellen Block.
June 24, 2017
Continues where "The Language of Sand" ends. A great continuation.
August 21, 2011
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher.
I was beyond excited when I found out that I had won an advanced copy of THE DEFINITION OF WIND BY ELLEN BLOCK after entering to win on Goodreads. I received a copy of the book in late June and could not wait to start reading, but after reading a chapter into the book, I realized that this was the second installment of the Abigail Harker story. So I was forced to put The Definition of Wind aside and read the first book in the series called The Language of Sand. I later found out while reading The Definition of Wind that the author, Ellen Block does a fabulous job of summarizing the key details from the first book into the second book…closing any gaps for first time readers.
The Definition of Wind by Ellen Block is the second installment of the Abigail Harker story. Ellen Block’s tells the fascinating and gripping story of Abigail’s first summer on Chapel Isle. Abigail Harker, who is originally from Massachusetts moved to Chapel Isle and has been residing in the caretaker’s cottage at the local lighthouse since the previous fall, yet, as summer approaches, Abigail sees firsthand how the tone on the tiny island changes with the incoming tourists. During the offseason, Chapel Isle is both quite and quaint, but during the summer months, the island transforms over-night into a boisterous and energetic summer destination. Several weeks into summer, the tourists and natives are all bustling about the possibility of sunken treasure off the coast of the island. In addition, a few people start to hint that there are clues regarding the location of the treasure inside the caretaker’s cottage. Abigail quickly gains the attention of a summer tourist and the natives as bazaar incidents occur around the island. In this new novel, Abigail Harker finds herself risking it all, happiness, love and life. As Independence Day approaches, Abigail will be forced to decide if staying on Chapel Isle is what she wants.
The Definition of Wind by Ellen Block is poignant novel about Abigail Harker’s story of loss, mourning, and the journey to rediscovering happiness and love once again. In The Definition of Wind, Ellen Block writes with real passion and raw emotion. She will have anyone believing that no matter what unfortunate events a person is forced to endure in his or her life; there is always a second chance at happiness and love behind each corner. The Definition of Wind was charming and quirky at the same time. And a great “summer read” or “beach read” because its length is on the short side, making it possible to finish in one sitting. Although the length is short, the novel is not lacking in detail or character development. I absolutely fell in love with Abigail Harker’s character; she was a kind and appealing woman that meet with some ill-fated events, but she remained strong through it all. To me, Abigail Harker is an everyday heroine. I would recommend this to anyone who has been faced with loss because Abigail Harker’s story will give them strength. I also recommend this novel to those few fortunate souls who have not faced such a loss because Abigail Harker’s story will make them appreciate all that they have been blessed with.
I was beyond excited when I found out that I had won an advanced copy of THE DEFINITION OF WIND BY ELLEN BLOCK after entering to win on Goodreads. I received a copy of the book in late June and could not wait to start reading, but after reading a chapter into the book, I realized that this was the second installment of the Abigail Harker story. So I was forced to put The Definition of Wind aside and read the first book in the series called The Language of Sand. I later found out while reading The Definition of Wind that the author, Ellen Block does a fabulous job of summarizing the key details from the first book into the second book…closing any gaps for first time readers.
The Definition of Wind by Ellen Block is the second installment of the Abigail Harker story. Ellen Block’s tells the fascinating and gripping story of Abigail’s first summer on Chapel Isle. Abigail Harker, who is originally from Massachusetts moved to Chapel Isle and has been residing in the caretaker’s cottage at the local lighthouse since the previous fall, yet, as summer approaches, Abigail sees firsthand how the tone on the tiny island changes with the incoming tourists. During the offseason, Chapel Isle is both quite and quaint, but during the summer months, the island transforms over-night into a boisterous and energetic summer destination. Several weeks into summer, the tourists and natives are all bustling about the possibility of sunken treasure off the coast of the island. In addition, a few people start to hint that there are clues regarding the location of the treasure inside the caretaker’s cottage. Abigail quickly gains the attention of a summer tourist and the natives as bazaar incidents occur around the island. In this new novel, Abigail Harker finds herself risking it all, happiness, love and life. As Independence Day approaches, Abigail will be forced to decide if staying on Chapel Isle is what she wants.
The Definition of Wind by Ellen Block is poignant novel about Abigail Harker’s story of loss, mourning, and the journey to rediscovering happiness and love once again. In The Definition of Wind, Ellen Block writes with real passion and raw emotion. She will have anyone believing that no matter what unfortunate events a person is forced to endure in his or her life; there is always a second chance at happiness and love behind each corner. The Definition of Wind was charming and quirky at the same time. And a great “summer read” or “beach read” because its length is on the short side, making it possible to finish in one sitting. Although the length is short, the novel is not lacking in detail or character development. I absolutely fell in love with Abigail Harker’s character; she was a kind and appealing woman that meet with some ill-fated events, but she remained strong through it all. To me, Abigail Harker is an everyday heroine. I would recommend this to anyone who has been faced with loss because Abigail Harker’s story will give them strength. I also recommend this novel to those few fortunate souls who have not faced such a loss because Abigail Harker’s story will make them appreciate all that they have been blessed with.
July 27, 2011
I won a free copy of The Definition of Wind by Ellen Block from the Goodreads First Reads Program.
I really enjoyed this book. First of all it is set in the Outerbanks of North Carolina. Growing up I spent time there every summer so it is wonderful to read a book set in this area. This book is about Abigail, a woman who lost her husband and child in a fire. She moves to Chapel Isle and rents the lighthouse keepers cottage. There are a lot of local characters and also the summer tourists have descended upon the town. It is very hot with no air conditioner in the cottage. There is talk of a sunken treasure off the shore in the treacherous waters. Abigail thinks she may find clues to the whereabouts of the treasure in her home because it had not been inhabited in years and all the furniture and journals of the lighthouse keepers are in her cottage. A fun book to read. I have not read The Language of Sand but The Defination of Wind Stands on it's own.
I really enjoyed this book. First of all it is set in the Outerbanks of North Carolina. Growing up I spent time there every summer so it is wonderful to read a book set in this area. This book is about Abigail, a woman who lost her husband and child in a fire. She moves to Chapel Isle and rents the lighthouse keepers cottage. There are a lot of local characters and also the summer tourists have descended upon the town. It is very hot with no air conditioner in the cottage. There is talk of a sunken treasure off the shore in the treacherous waters. Abigail thinks she may find clues to the whereabouts of the treasure in her home because it had not been inhabited in years and all the furniture and journals of the lighthouse keepers are in her cottage. A fun book to read. I have not read The Language of Sand but The Defination of Wind Stands on it's own.
January 17, 2016
Loved it and could not put it down for a second! I just finished a few minutes ago, a great sequel to The Language of Sand. The storyline was so engrossing, and mysterious, along with humor and I just enjoyed it so much. Upon reading the Readers Guide at the end of the book, I learned how the author found her story, through her own experiences and a research of famous lighthouses with a history all their own. One in particular caught my eye, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse, because I've visited there and climbed the spiral staircase to the top and stood on the turret. I was fascinated with it, as well as lighthouses in general. They also have a nice musemn. It was a nice surprise to see she included some history of that lighthouse. I'd recommend this book to anyone who has a love for mystery, lighthouses, and unusual, but lovable characters. I can't wait for Ms. Block's next book, and I will definately read her earlier books.
December 5, 2011
This is the 2nd book in a series by Ellen Block about lighthouse keeper Abigial Harker and Chapel Isle, NC. Abby has survived the winter and now gets to experience the tourist season on Chapel Isle. Her landlord, Lottie, persuades her to take a small job looking out for the tourists' complaints about their rental houses. She is soon looked on as a miracle worker by the tourists.
During one repair job she meets Tim, who is on the isle for a vacation, or is he? There has been lots of talk about a missing old shipwreck and Tim seems to be interested, too. Add in some arsons, some mysterious breakins and other mayhem and the island becomes very tense.
Read this book to find out who Tim really is and what lengths he will go to to accomplish his schemes.
During one repair job she meets Tim, who is on the isle for a vacation, or is he? There has been lots of talk about a missing old shipwreck and Tim seems to be interested, too. Add in some arsons, some mysterious breakins and other mayhem and the island becomes very tense.
Read this book to find out who Tim really is and what lengths he will go to to accomplish his schemes.
September 15, 2012
C'era forse ancora un'ancora da qualche parte in fondo a lei da cui doveva slegarsi?Se non ce l'avesse fatta,sarebbe affondata.
Parole sulla sabbia mi aveva conquistata,lo stile fresco,delicato,femminile,era riuscito a raccontare una storia di dolore e coraggio,senza diventare scontato,l'autrice non si è affannata a rifilare subito un nuovo amore a Abby,no lei ha raccontato quel dolore,la difficile rinascita...e ora?Ora è la volta del riscoprirsi,perchè finalmente Abby trova un posto nella comunità e il suo cuore è pronto ad amare di nuovo,ma non mancheranno le avventure tra tesori,mappe e intrighi e poi c'è sempre lui,il fantasma del faro,Mr.Jasper a vegliare su di lei....Consigliato!
Parole sulla sabbia mi aveva conquistata,lo stile fresco,delicato,femminile,era riuscito a raccontare una storia di dolore e coraggio,senza diventare scontato,l'autrice non si è affannata a rifilare subito un nuovo amore a Abby,no lei ha raccontato quel dolore,la difficile rinascita...e ora?Ora è la volta del riscoprirsi,perchè finalmente Abby trova un posto nella comunità e il suo cuore è pronto ad amare di nuovo,ma non mancheranno le avventure tra tesori,mappe e intrighi e poi c'è sempre lui,il fantasma del faro,Mr.Jasper a vegliare su di lei....Consigliato!
February 10, 2014
Mi aspettavo grandi descrizioni, paesaggi e luoghi visto che le ambientazioni riprendono molto quelle di Sparks ma sfortunatamente si perde nella creazione di un thriller che verrà risolto e/o si risolverà nelle ultime pagine. Troppo prolissa nel descrivere il carattere degli abitanti più che dei protagonisti; è difficile credere che il carattere degli abitanti di quell isola o di quello stato siano così. Dedicato a chi ha lasciato questo libro per troppo tempo sul comodino ed avanzava spazio
July 12, 2011
This book but was a bit frustrating. I did read, and enjoy, the previous book (The Language of Sand) but I don't have it memorized. The author seems to think I do, however,as she keeps referring to things that happened in the previous book as if I know what she's talking about.
I don't think the author needed to write this book. The first book was wonderful. I think she should have just left it as that.
I don't think the author needed to write this book. The first book was wonderful. I think she should have just left it as that.
August 30, 2016
Seconda (e ultima) recensione. Seguito de The language of sand, si legge d'un fiato e se è piaciuto il precedente questo non delude. Anche il finale è quello che si spera, molto sereno, non spettacolare nel senso che non è un romanzo rosa che termina con amore amore amore.
I sentimenti emergono dalle pagine del libro e ci lambiscono come il vento su Chapel Isle.
Spero non ci sia un terzo, perché la storia è bella così.
I sentimenti emergono dalle pagine del libro e ci lambiscono come il vento su Chapel Isle.
Spero non ci sia un terzo, perché la storia è bella così.
July 26, 2011
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.
A light fun summer read about a small isle in NC. It's got mystery, romance, small town feel, interesting characters and an all around enjoyable atmosphere. It was well-written and a quick read. Perfect book for the beach or sitting outside and enjoying the (hot) weather.
A light fun summer read about a small isle in NC. It's got mystery, romance, small town feel, interesting characters and an all around enjoyable atmosphere. It was well-written and a quick read. Perfect book for the beach or sitting outside and enjoying the (hot) weather.
October 16, 2011
I won this book through Good Reads and Random House, so glad I did. Thank you.
The cover is so summer, beautifully done. I really liked the feel and atmosphere of this story set on a small island; with a small, quaint town and very interesting characters. Tales of sunken treasure off the coast and a ghost in the lighthouse, makes for a great read to get lost in.
The cover is so summer, beautifully done. I really liked the feel and atmosphere of this story set on a small island; with a small, quaint town and very interesting characters. Tales of sunken treasure off the coast and a ghost in the lighthouse, makes for a great read to get lost in.
November 13, 2019
It is early July and Chapel Isle is crawling with summer visitors. While has very few nice things to say about them, it is the story of a woman finding her new feet and learning to walk again without pathos or maudlin sentimentality. There is a bit of a mystery as well.
Beautifully written. This is my second reading. I will probably read it again.
Beautifully written. This is my second reading. I will probably read it again.
February 11, 2012
Story taking place in Chapel Isle North Carolina and how tourists invade and the how the "local" deal with sometimes rude people. Storyline involves Abigal, who lost her husband and child when their home burned, and how she comes around with her emotions and people. Nice story and I would recommend it especially for a sunny afternoon on the beach or deck.
November 23, 2012
This is a sequel to Language of Sand which I thought was a much better novel than this one. Maybe I am tired of Abigail wallowing in her tragedy-the death of her husband and son in a fire. She is still on an island on the Outer Banks hiding from life and people. Maybe if I had not read the 1st book, I would have liked this betteR. Not a bad story but not great!
February 12, 2014
It was really good but frustrating at the same time. I can't believe we don't know what happens to Tim, we can only assume that he somehow got away or more likely just died while trying to get to the treasure. And although I'm happy Nat and Abby are now together it happens way at the end and there is no time to develop the relationship. Good story though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2011
I liked this because I had read the first book (Language of Sand). I am not sure this one stands alone so well. The main character continues to develop, but you really get the feel of the town and its residents in the first book.
December 29, 2011
This book was intriguing but a slow start. I am still not sure what the title has in common with the book. I will say the book was well written but predictable. An enjoyable read for the summer.
August 3, 2011
Another good book from Ellen Block -- quick, summer read. I love that the main character lives in an old lighthouse!
January 7, 2012
This book just did not appeal to me like her first one. Something is missing.
September 14, 2014
Good book. I really enjoyed reading it and joining the islanders for a short while.
November 7, 2016
Beachy Feel Good Read
Settling on an island to recover and find yourself again. We often dream of it. This book will encourage that fantasy.
Settling on an island to recover and find yourself again. We often dream of it. This book will encourage that fantasy.
August 11, 2012
Another quick read about Abby...certainly hope there is another one forthcoming.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews