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Amy Harmon is a versatile author known for writing across various genres. One of her most popular works is “From Sand and Ash,” a WWII story about love, bravery, and interfaith romance. So, when her new historical novel, “What the Wind Knows,” came out, I was excited to read it. As expected, it didn’t let me down—this book was impossible to put down.
WHAT THE WIND KNOWS SYNOPSIS
Anne Gallagher grew up fascinated by her grandfather’s tales of Ireland. After his death, she travels to his childhood home to scatter his ashes. Overwhelmed by memories and unfamiliar history, Anne is suddenly transported to the year 1921. Waking up injured and disoriented in a time of political unrest, she finds herself under the care of Dr. Thomas Smith, who looks after a boy who seems oddly familiar. Mistaken for the boy’s long-lost mother, Anne takes on her identity, believing that this disappearance is somehow linked to her own.
As the struggle for Ireland’s independence intensifies, Anne gets involved in the conflict alongside Thomas. Torn between the past and her present, she must decide whether to give up her previous life for a newfound love. But is that choice really hers to make?
REVIEW
I read historical fiction more than any other genre, and I love discovering less-explored periods. “What the Wind Knows” is set in 1920s Ireland during the fight for independence, a setting rarely covered in novels. Harmon expertly blends real historical figures like Michael Collins with her fictional characters to create a vivid narrative. This book transported me back in time and gave me a deeper understanding of this turbulent yet fascinating era in Ireland’s history.
Amy Harmon’s style in this book is different from her previous works. The narrative is gentle and lyrical, pulling you in slowly but surely. The drama and severity of the events build steadily to a climax, enhancing the feeling of stepping back in time to uncover Ireland’s true past.
A MULTI-FACETED LOVE STORY
“What the Wind Knows” delves into various aspects of love. Most compelling is Anne’s unbreakable bond with her grandfather, which propels her back in time. The full impact of this love is revealed by the end, highlighting the cyclical nature of time.
The love for Ireland and its fight for freedom is evident through characters like Michael Collins. Harmon presents both sides of the battle without bias, though she does romanticize Collins a bit more than reality might warrant.
Romantic love also blossoms between Anne and Thomas, complicated by Thomas’s connections with Anne’s ancestors. Thomas, a caring doctor, shows his growing affection for Anne in subtle ways. Anne, on her part, struggles with the thought of falling for someone she might not be able to stay with. Their relationship is tender and deeply romantic, demonstrated through everyday gestures and mutual commitment.
CONCLUSION
“What the Wind Knows” isn’t flashy but gradually captivates its readers. It rewards patience and intelligence with a slow-building beauty. The novel balances history, drama, romance, moral dilemmas, and family relationships expertly. It’s a masterpiece for those who appreciate a richly woven story.
ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATION
This book would make a stunning film given the dramatic historical context of the period. I imagine someone like a young Harrison Ford as Thomas Smith and Amy Adams as Anne Gallagher. A TV series would also work well, offering more time to delve into the history and characters.
Content Note: The book contains mild profanity, descriptions of protest violence and death, and a few non-explicit bedroom scenes.
“What the Wind Knows” is available on Amazon in various formats: ebook, hardback, paperback, and audio. For more about Amy Harmon and her other books, visit her website.
Do you have any favorite historical novels set in Ireland? Have you read any of Amy Harmon’s books?
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