I loved this story with so many wonderful layers woven in. Saoirse Fagan is weighed down with grief and guilt, then she finds she's lost her job before it started. Owen McCready is injured and proud. When Saoirse finds herself lost on a country road in Ireland, Aileen McCready, Owen's sister invites her to stay in the barn. From here the story takes a journey through heartache, joy, fear, hope, and tears. Deibel has written another beautiful story with a glorious thread to be strong and courageous. I've loved all of her Ireland tales and recommend them to anyone who wants to read an uplifting, hope-filled story.

Heart of the Glen by Jennifer Diebels is an exceptional look at how God works in our lives when we are overwhelmed with obstacles, tragedies, and no options.

After Saoirse Fagan arrives to take a job as a housemaid, she discovers her employer is dead and no job is available. Unsure what to do, she wanders the road, hoping to find a village where she can find employment. When Aileen McCready spots her on the road, she offers to shelter her for the night. From there Saoirse meets Aileen’s brother Owen and one night of shelter turns into a longer stay.

I loved all these characters and was surprised by how much I related to them. When we are going through any kind of suffering that never seems to let up, it’s easy for our thoughts to wonder why God is punishing us. I loved how the author (through the help of the church Pastor and the Scriptures) showed how God works when He is trying to get us to draw closer to Him. And how, when tragedy befalls us, it is not because God is punishing us, but because He has greater plans for us. 

I was also very impressed with her comments at the end of the book on finding salvation through Jesus.

Although I liked the book and its setting, the frequent use of Gaelic took away from the story. I was constantly having to flip to the front of the book to find out what the characters were saying. I feel less Gaelic would have made the story flow better. In addition, the abrupt ending through me for a loop and felt too rushed. Although I have some criticisms, I still found this book to be very enjoyable and plan on reading more of the author’s work.

I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Revell via NetGalley for my honest review.

This story was so touching and simple and absolutely amazing. Magical. Jennifer brings Ireland to life in such a way that I can feel the difficulty of the characters and see the vivid landscapes. The heartbreaking decisions they all have to make is a reminder of all the good things God has given me. God’s story of never leaving us and using our hardships for good is woven throughout this entire story. I loved all the characters and my heart just broke for what Saoirse went through, and cheered for her and Owen the entire way through.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What a heart moving story with such dramatic twists and turns in the narrative. A very real reminder that God always has a plan for our live, even when we can't see it. His love for us is overwhelming.