I loved learning more about the tweed industry as well as Irish history and culture! Owen is a very interesting character with a lot on his plate when Saoirse enters his life, she has plenty of secrets. Past verses the future, both Owen and Saoirse rely on their faith to help them through the trials and guide them to the ultimate goal - love. It’s a wonderful read set in Celtic history and tradition with plenty of swoony kisses!
Thank you to the author and publishing house for this arc!

This story begins in the early 1900’s, in Ireland. Saoirse Fagan has had to leave her job and is set to begin a new one as maid in Drumboe Castle. Upon arriving, she discovers that the castle has been closed down and there is no job available. She has no family and can’t return to her former job. She has no money and no where to go so she begins walking, taking shelter on a nearby farm. Aileen McCready, the farm owner’s sister happens upon her and gives her shelter in their barn, unbeknownst to her brother Owen. Owen raises exceptional sheep for their wool and weaves much sought after fabric. His farm is often raided and sheep stolen, He is unable to catch the man he knows is responsible. He reluctantly agrees to let her stay with them, even though he doesn’t completely trust her because of the secrets she keeps.
Owen’s hand is severely injured after a vicious attack and he is unable to weave. He fears if he can’t complete a large order, he will lose his farm. Against his better judgement, he teaches Saoirse how to weave. They work many hours together and begin to have feelings for each other but both are reluctant to allow them to develop.
The author does a great job of transporting the reader to the old Irish countryside and culture. There is a glossary that helps the reader with some of the Irish words and terms. The characters are very believable and relatable.
Will their faith withstand the obstacles thrown in their way? Can they learn to trust each other? Will Saoirse ever forgive herself for what ever happened to force her away from home?
This is a story of trust in God, faith, love, courage and determination.
This is from the website:
“Can the lonely thread of her life be woven into a new and finer pattern?

When Saoirse Fagan arrives at Drumboe Castle to start her new job as housemaid, she is dismayed to learn that the lord of the house passed away a week prior. Already running from the tragedy that claimed the lives of her family members, Saoirse wanders the road through the darkening glen with nowhere to go until Aileen McCready offers her a lift and a place to stay for the night.

Aileen's brother, sheep farmer and weaver Owen McCready, is known for his intricate and impeccably woven tweed. But when he's injured, his entire livelihood is endangered. A new--and distracting--mouth to feed adds fuel to the fire, and Owen struggles to keep his family afloat. Though Saoirse is eager to help, even offering to learn the weaving craft, Owen is hesitant to accept aid from this strange young woman, no matter how inexplicably magnetic he finds her.

But Saoirse is not one to give up easily. She's determined to convince the McCreadys that they need her--perhaps as much as she needs them.”
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Revell via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Heart of the Glen by Jennifer Deibel is a beautiful historical novel set in 1912 in Ballybofey, Country Donegal. Saoirse Fagan was on her way to start a new job at Drumboe Castle, but finds the job no longer exists due to the lord of the house passing away. With no where to go she begins walking until Aileen McCready picks her up and brings her home. Aileen’s brother, Owen McCready, is an amazing weaver who keeps to himself and does not really want another mouth to feed in his home. But what if he needs Saoirse as much as she may need him?
Saoirse and Owen had a sweet friendship, good chemistry, and it was lovely to watch them change and grow as characters. This story is written beautifully and the faith piece is so powerful.

The setting of Ireland in the early 1900’s was very interesting as the author made the time period come alive. Learning about weaving was fascinating! The themes of found family, trusting the Lord, and community were woven in so beautifully.
Heart of the Glen by Jennifer Deibel is a wonderful story of faith, perseverance, and has sweet romance. It was a joy to read! It was my pleasure to visit Ireland and I look forward to the author’s upcoming books. I highly recommend.

I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.

This is a sweet story of faith, forgiveness, romance, and danger. I enjoyed how the faith was included, and how the author tackled the theme of forgiveness. What really piqued my interest was the weaving. Little historical tidbits fascinate me, and now I want to look more into this craft that, I think, is forgotten about in many historical books, both fiction and nonfiction.

Those who like Christian historical romance will enjoy Heart of the Glen.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in conjunction with NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

There is nothing like being swept away to the Emerald Isle and having a cuppa with a Jennifer Deibel book. She just immerses you into Irish culture and language and makes you feel like you are there as you read and experience the story. She doesn't disappoint in this story!

Heart of the Glen is heart-warming and cozy. I really enjoyed the storyline and learning about weaving. Saoirse Fagan was a wonderful character. She is strong and carries huge guilt about her family's death upon her shoulders as she arrives at Drumboe Castle to work she is no longer needed as the owner has died and the place is abandoned.

She meets Aileen and Owen and they turn out to be a blessing. God could not have provided a better situation for Saoirse and through them she learns not only to let go of her guilt but helps Owen and Aileen with their situation. The romance between Owen and Saoirse is a slow burn but oh so worth it.

Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was a little slow at times and I felt like the faith thread that Jennifer usually has in her books was a bit on the lighter side this time but that didn't deter from a good story. It is still full of grace and redemption and truly a wonderful story.

I received a copy of this book for review. All views expressed are my own.

4.5 Stars

Heart of the Glen is a compelling and heartfelt historical fiction story of found family, forgiveness, and a side of sweet romance.

Saoirse arrives at Drumboe Castle (1912) to start her new job as a housemaid, and she finds that the owner has died. Saoirse is turned away with nowhere to go. Her family has died in a tragic accident and she’s literally alone in the world. As she wanders down the road, a woman named Aileen picks her up and offers her a place to stay for the night. Aileen and her brother live on a sheep farm and her brother, Owen, is a weaver. With no other options, Saoirse is determined to prove to Aileen and Owen that they need her as much as she needs them.

Thoughtful and poignant themes in Heart of the Glen include women supporting women, found family, determination, faith, helping others, guilt, acceptance, heartache, tragedy, friendship, healing, and trust. And yes, a side of slow-burn, sweet romance!

“Are you living an exceedingly abundant life, Saoirse? Or is your life defined by what’s been stolen from you?”

As this story shares the weaving process, it also reminds us that lives can be woven together in mysterious and wonderful ways. Hardship and heartache can be part of a beautiful design.

Authentic and relatable characters, the Irish lilt, Irish customs, sensory details, and vivid descriptions add to this atmospheric story. I especially loved the singing, which helped set and maintain the weaving rhythm.

Content Consideration: family tragedy as a result of fire

Fans of Jennifer Deibel will want to add this new release to your TBR! I’m warmly recommending Heart of the Glen for readers who appreciate thoughtful themes (including faith) in a compelling histfic story and an Irish setting. Perfect for “Reading Ireland” challenges and for book clubs.

Thanks #NetGalley @AustenProse @RevellBooks for a complimentary eARC of #HeartOfTheGlen upon my request. All opinions are my own.

Jennifer Deibel has written another enchanting historical story set in Ireland. Jennifer did a lovely job describing the scenery- my desire to visit the island has been renewed! I’d love to walk the hills with Owen and immerse myself in the beauty. My heart broke for Saoirse and everything she went through. Her journey of healing and turning to God seemed realistic, and I empathized with her. Owen’s growth throughout the story was honest and relatable. I enjoyed the parallels to Gideon, and the timeless Biblical truths woven into the story. I also love how Jennifer portrays godly mentors to the main characters in each of her books, and this one featured an encouraging married couple. Aileen was another great side character who made me laugh! The romance between Saoirse and Owen was sweet, though I truly think their spiritual growth is what shines brightest- or at least what impacted me the most- in this story. I know when I pick up one of Jennifer Deibel’s books to read, I’m in for a Gospel-focused, encouraging story complete with romance and rich historical details. I’m looking forward to her next book!
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy. All thoughts above are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.

“God’s plans very often seem foolish to those He asks to carry them out.“

Jennifer Deibel is quickly becoming one of my very favorite historical romance authors, thanks to her charming stories, warmly-sketched settings, endearing characters, and the way she organically integrates faith themes into the very fabric of the plot. And ohhhh y’all… her heroes are truly something special – salt of the earth guys who are in equal turns ruggedly swoony and immensely huggable. Phrases (among others) that I would definitely use to describe Owen McCready of Heart of the Glen.

But before I get too distracted being starry-eyed over Owen (just wait until he dances), he’s not the only character I loved in this gorgeous novel. Saoirse (the story’s heroine) is also expertly layered, a compelling blend of grief, guilt, compassion, wit, and strength. Not to mention Owen’s sister Aileen and their dog Stout, both of whom made me grin nearly every time one or the other appeared on the scene, and a town full of colorful personalities that captured my heart. Amid the warmth and affection with which Deibel weaves these characters into an engaging tapestry, she also incorporates threads of sorrow and faith-crises and grief that add meaning and beauty when placed in the hands of Jesus. While Saoirse struggles to come to terms with her past, Owen battles the uncertainty of his future, and into both lives – and readers’ too – comes the Biblical account of Gideon just in time. I absolutely loved the truths that Saoirse and Owen learn about God and His care over us, including the reminder that He takes our tangled messes and makes them beautiful.

Bottom Line: Heart of the Glen by Jennifer Deibel took me to turn of the century Ireland and swept me away. The story told here on this quaint sheep farm known for its skilled tweed weaving exudes so much charm as well as emotion, and I didn’t want to leave even when I’d finished reading. Yes, Owen and Saoirse are both struggling with what God has allowed, but oh these two are nonetheless such a delightful match whose chemistry is electrically tangible. Prepare to swoon over some really yummy tension & kisses (I still haven’t recovered from a couple of scenes) but also prepare to be thoroughly entertained by the writing and deeply moved by the faith journeys that Owen & Saoirse undertake. If you haven’t read a Jennifer Deibel book yet, you are truly missing out and Heart of the Glen is a great place to start!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Saoirse Fagan and Owen McCready meet at one of the low points in her life. He and his sister Aileen are also struggling to keep their farm afloat and the weaving caught up. They seem to be hit by one misfortune after another and Saoirse feels like bad luck follows her where ever she goes. She decides to stay to learn how to weave and help this family that she soon comes to care for. Their story is all about learning to really trust God and have faith in him especially through the hard times. Wonderful, sweet romance!

I love Jennifer Deibel's books and the setting in Ireland. I can just picture it as I was reading and it really made me want to go back to Ireland.

Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 21 January 2025

[Thank you to @revellfiction for my gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.]

Jennifer Deibel knows how to write an immersive setting, and I always appreciate “visiting” Ireland in her books.

I enjoyed this historical romance!

Read this if you’re looking for:

-1912 era
-Immersive Ireland setting
-Christian historical romance
-Found-family
-Grace, redemption, and forgiveness themes
-Clean (kisses only) romance

I did feel that the plot moved slowly in this novel and that the book could have really been shorter. However, I definitely still enjoyed the story and would absolutely recommend it.

Heart of the Glen by Jennifer Deibel is a wonderful historical romance set in the early 1900s in Ireland. It is told from the points of view of both Saoirse Fagan and Owen McCready.
We first meet Saoirse (pronounced Seer-sha) when she arrives in Ballybofey, County Donegal at a castle where she was supposed to be employed. However, she discovers that her employer has recently died and she is stranded with no where to go and no one to return to. We also know from the first line that she has “blood on her hands.” This leaves the reader wondering exactly what happened and why she is so alone.
We then meet sheep farmer and weaver Owen McCready, who has just been attacked by bandits on his farm in Dunlewey, County Donegal. His sister Aileen had discovered the wandering, abandoned Saorirse and offered to help her. Saoirse sees herself as a curse because of what appears to be bad luck that is following her; however, the MrCready’s see her as an answer to prayer as she came along at just the right time to help them in their time of need.
There is so much I loved about this book.
I loved the relationship between Saoirse and Owen and how it evolved while Owen taught her to weave in her effort to help them. And through this part of the storyline, I was able to learn more about weaving which was really cool. And I also loved how the author wove the object lesson of the tapestry into the story. I also loved the friendship that developed between Saoirse and Aileen. And then their was Stout, the McCready’s loyal dog. I loved reading about the way he watched over the sheep and helped herd them. And seeing the relationship he had with Owen and the one he developed with Saoirse.
I appreciated the relationships in their close-knit community and seeing them come together in times of need. And also the importance of faith in the Lord. I love the way Owen’s friend led him to see a parallel to the challenges in Owen’s life and that of a story from the Bible.
One of my favorite quotes is from one of their discussions:
“’I just wish I knew my story would turn out as well as his,’ Owen added.
The corner of John’s mouth made a clicking sound, and he nodded. ‘Well,’ he said, ‘I reckon that’s why it’s called faith.’”
I truly fell in love with these characters and despaired with them when hardships came, but was strengthened in my faith with the biblical reminders that were given to Owen and Saoirse.
This is only my second book by this author, but she is becoming one of my favorite authors, one whose books I can’t wait to read more of.
I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

I absolutely loved this book. It was well written and really romantic. It was slower paced, but still kept my attention the entire time. I finished it in a couple days and didn’t want to put it down. I loved the romance between Saoirse and Owen. They had to learn to trust each other and God for their survival and to let go of past hurts.

This was my first read from Jennifer Deibel, and I was thoroughly impressed with her ability to craft a heartfelt historical romance. Heart of the Glen is a beautifully woven tale of resilience, faith, and love, set against the rich backdrop of Ireland.

For fans of Irish settings, grumpy-yet-endearing male main characters, and historical romance with a medium faith thread, this book is a perfect fit. The story follows Saoirse Fagan (pronounced Seer-sha), a name as lyrical as the Irish landscapes Deibel so vividly describes. Her journey, intertwined with the tweed-weaving trade, brings an authentic historical touch that adds depth to the narrative.

Deibel excels at world-building, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and traditions of Ireland. The names, the culture, and the overall atmosphere felt wonderfully authentic. The romance unfolds in a heartwarming way, though the pacing did slow at times. Still, the emotional depth and the characters’ resilience kept me invested.

Overall, Heart of the Glen is a touching and immersive historical romance. If you enjoy stories with a strong sense of place, a gruff but lovable hero, and a heroine who embodies the very meaning of her name—freedom—you’ll enjoy this book.

Heart of the Glen will capture your heart and sweep you away to Donegal, where the sheep graze contentedly under the watch of their shepherd and give wool to make the stellar tweed only Owen McCready can weave. The struggles facing the McCready family seem to stack like peat for the fire, stoking frustration in Owen as he endeavors to carry the load on his own, until the situation becomes one where he must swallow his pride and allow help from outside. Saoirse Fagan knows about needing help; it is the reason she is in the McCready barn. And she knows about carrying the load, as she has been doing that on her own for a good long time now, but it just might be that Saoirse can help Owen carry his while while lightening her own for a bit.

Jennifer Deibel uses the Old Testament story of Gideon to remind us that God is in the details, even when we cannot see Him. Her descriptions of the place and the people draw the reader in, making it all feel so very real and leading us to friendship with the characters and investing us in their health and well-being. Saoirse, Owen, and Aileen quickly become family to us, so that we weep with them in their trials and cheer for them in their joys. Grab a cuppa and a cozy blanket, bonus points if it is tartan, and sweep yourself off to the heart of the glen!

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

Set in Ireland, this story centers around weaver/farmer Owen McCready and Saorise Fagen who has nowhere to be after her job fell through. Aileen, Owen’s sister takes Saorise in. When Owen gets injured and can’t do his weaving, Saorise steps up to help. I really enjoyed this story! It has a beautiful Irish atmosphere that the author captures vividly. This story shows how much people need people in order to survive. It also shows that even though life may not be perfect, if they trust in God, it is the best thing to do. I really loved both of these characters. Saorise is hiding a secret for most of the book and the author did a good job at making me want to know and say “Saoirse, What did you do?!” But finally I found out. Haha. I also enjoyed watching Owen teach Saorise how to weave. Overall, I enjoyed this great story and loved all the great Christian content. I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

This was my first book by this author. This is a Christian historical romance. It is set in Ireland in 1910. Our heroine has secret and runs across our hero and his sister. They are scraping by and she spends time with them in this forced proximity, no spice romance. Our hero is a weaver and it was really interesting to read about that and try to imagine and picture things that go along with that craft. This book grabbed my attention from the first. This is a slow burn book and romance. However, I felt the last quarter of it dragged on a bit. This book had a very strong Christian theme, which I appreciated. All in all, it was a good read.

“Be strong and courageous.”

Heart of the Glen beautifully weaves a story of love, loss, forgiveness, & faith. Jennifer Deibel brilliantly brings early 1900’s Ireland to life in such a touching, thought provoking way. I love her books & this story in particular touched my heart as two people learn to trust in God while facing insurmountable odds.

Saoirse Fagan believes she’s cursed. She blames herself for her family’s death & it seems everything she touches leads to disaster. She arrives in Donegal only to find the position she hoped for no longer exists. Offered a temporary place to stay with the Aileen McCready & her brother Owen, she soon finds herself learning new skills & falling in love with Owen. But, will her supposed curse be the McCreadys’ downfall.

Owen McCready’s a talented weaver & sheep farmer who faces disaster after disaster, first with his parents’ death & now terrible injuries & bandits who threaten his livelihood. His faith is tested as he wonders how he’ll save his family’s farm & continue his weaving profession. When Saoirse arrives on his doorstep, she breathes new hope into his life especially when she shows a talent for weaving. Just when he thinks things are looking up, disaster strikes again. Will he have the courage to fight for what he wants?

I loved this story so much! Saoirse & Owen both endured terrible tragedies & want to find God in the plans. I enjoyed how the author wove the story of Gideon & the battle of Jericho throughout & the mysterious ways God works. I enjoyed learning more about the history of cottage weaving in Ireland & the creation of tweed.

This was such an epic story with endearing romance, lovable & relatable characters, & a magnificent setting that was so well described. I loved the sweet romance between Owen & Saoirse. There were so many swoonworthy scenes where he teaches her to weave & their dance. I also loved Owen’s sister Aileen. Her spunky yet friendly personality was so delightful. I fell in love with not only these characters but with Stout the darling sheep dog & the entire town.

Highly recommend this heart achingly lovely Irish romance! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.

This is my first book by this author and I really loved her writing! I always enjoy a book set in Ireland, and thought the story and dialogue felt very authentic to the time and place.

I enjoyed learning more about Irish traditions and culture, and the cottage weaving industry. The love story between Owen and Saoirse was super sweet. Strength and Courage was an inspiring theme that ran throughout the story, and one that I really appreciated. There’s a strong faith element to the story and it’s shared in a beautiful way.

This is a lovely and uplifting story of heartbreak and loss, as well as faith, strength, perseverance, and trusting in God.

I received a copy from Revell and Austenprose PR via NetGalley, but a positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Yet another sweet historical romance novel that I read so quickly. Sweeping you to Ireland, you meet many wonderful characters. Just watching their relationships grow from the beginning was a treat, as was the chance to “visit” another country through this novel.

I really enjoyed watching Owen’s and Saoise’s relationship grow from strangers to in love, even if I knew what to expect. They had such a sweet story, and I enjoy romances such as this. Drama? Yes. But also just a growth in understanding of each other, even with troubles in their past.

My favorite part was the little lessons of faith throughout. How the author pointed toward God and the characters learned from it. I thought it was well written and well incorporated in the story.

Also, the opportunity to learn a little about weaving? As a crafter myself, I found this all fascinating and now want to pick up yet another craft! It was a fun addition.

It was really a quick, easy book to read, but full of depth. I really couldn’t put it down, and was eager to see how events unfolded.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from @jenniferdeibel_author @revellbooks and @austenprose . However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.

'She wasn't sure she and God were on speaking terms--and she wasn't entirely sure whose fault that was.'

If you love Scotland settings-you'll want to read about this one!!

This had a great redemptive vibe overall that always appeals to me. I loved the Christian vibes throughout. It was beautiful and hopeful without being overwhelming or preachy. The Christian aspects were perfectly sprinkled in throughout to make this story rich and vibrant.

I loved the two main characters. They both have misgivings and there is a lot of growth that comes with these two. I loved watching them learn to trust and work together. I felt their stories were believable and honestly, beautiful.

'Though gruff and intimidating at first, she'd seen enough to know he was a sheep in grump's clothing.'

This was not a grumpy/sunshine trope, because the characters both have things they are working through and finding the courage to trust God with it all, BUT I did love watching Saoirse and Owen try to not notice the other person throughout ;)

If you like redemptive tales, messages of forgiveness/hope/peace/trust/love, Scottish setting and a swoony romance...I think you'd love this one!

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

Content/Trigger: death of loved ones, mild violence and injuries, a few religious exclamation through praising and prayer, romance-kisses only.