262 pages

4 stars

I will never understand how people can be so inhumane to others. I believed that I was relatively familiar with Irish history. No. I had no idea just how bad things were. I knew about the famine and the suppression of the Irish in general. But, I had no idea at the sheer vitriol aimed at Irish Catholics by the English Protestants. They are both Christian faiths. Is this how Christains treat one another? A question I still ask about today’s society.

This book tells the real life story of Henry Kearney. Orphaned at age eleven, he is totally alone. Through the kindness of strangers, he travels to a workhouse. From there he is taken by relatives to a very nice home where he learns rudimentary writing skills, does chores gladly and is able to exercise his love of horses.

He goes on to have many adventures, including training horses for the track and steeplechases, Eventually, traveling to Ohio, USA aboard a “coffin ship.” And it was, especially when typhus hits the ship. He meets more welcoming relatives there and becomes the go to young man for horse training.

The reader follows Henry’s life through the Civil War, his love and marriage to Mary Ann and the family’s move to Nebraska. Through hardships, the extended family perseveres and flourishes.

This is a lovely story. This book is both fascinating and interesting. I like reading about other peoples’ lives. Suffering so much adversity, Henry maintained his optimistic outlook on life. He was able to participate in his two loves: marriage to Mary Ann and training horses.

This book is very well written. I felt I got to know Henry and his wife quite well. I almost felt as though I had a personal relationship with them. I truly enjoyed this novel, and hope that Mr. Kearney writes more.

I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.

Thanks to NetGalley for this advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Now I want to find a journal of my GGgmothers writings!
A fascinating account of an Irish boy who makes his way in America, from the famine and workhouse in Ireland to the civil war in the states and beyond., Compelling and readable with lots of historical background provided.
What a gift.
This reads very much like a journal, because it is, and the reader should know that it’s not embellished with a lot of descriptions of the characters or places. If that’s your thing, you won’t appreciate it. It’s short, compact, and straight ahead.
4*

Eyes That Do Not See is the first book I have read by Kent Kearney. I found this novel to be an inspiring book to read. I highly recommend it and am giving it five stars.

I am so pleased I picked this book to read, it’s the amazing story of Henry (Hank ) Kearney and his life which takes him from Ireland to America. Henry’s story was written by his wife and love of his life and found as journals in a box in a cupboard by her family upon her passing. This man had an amazing life but the hardship he endured was off set by happiness in his later years. He went through desperation, unfairness, sadness but overall he had a family he loved and a talent with horses and a happy family. This is an amazing book based on true events and a must read written by a family member.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Booksgosocial for the amazing read.

"Eyes That Do Not See" unveils a remarkable saga, chronicling the remarkable spirit of Henry Kearney. His story transcends time with unwavering resilience.

Kent Kearney's novel is wonderful. He draws inspiration from his great-grandfather's life, composing a narrative that pulsates with the vitality of an era marked by hardship and determination.

Kearney unapologetically portrays life's hardships, mirrored in Henry's unwavering resolve to persevere. The pages depicting the tumultuous journey through workhouses, famine ships, Civil War battlefields, and the plains of Nebraska. Kearney's text breathes life into each scene, inviting readers to witness the tenacity and resilience of a man shaped by adversity.

Kearney interweaves perspectives of Henry's descendants, piecing together his legacy from a discovered journal. This approach adds depth and infuses the plot with a sense of lineage, making Henry's trials and triumphs echo through generations.

Kearney's attention to historical authenticity enriches this novel. The portrayal of immigrant struggles and the nation's spirit during the Civil War era creates an immersive experience, appealing to enthusiasts of Irish heritage, Civil War history, and the allure of the American frontier.

'Eyes That Do Not See' is a profound exploration of the human spirit's resilience. Henry Kearney's journey, brimming with love, loss, and perseverance, has left a lasting impression on my heart. This captivating book illustrates the strength of the human soul and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.

"A breathtaking journey through hardship and triumph, 'Eyes That Do Not See' embodies the spirit of a man determined to carve his destiny."

"Kent Kearney's storytelling breathes life into history, capturing the essence of resilience amidst the trials of famine, war, and the untamed American frontier."

"An epic tale of courage and perseverance, Henry Kearney's odyssey resonates with the unwavering determination to conquer adversity."

"Immersive and authentic, this novel illuminates the immigrant experience and the enduring spirit that shapes a nation."

"From the desolation of Ireland to the unforgiving plains of Nebraska, 'Eyes That Do Not See' weaves a captivating narrative, echoing the resilience of a generation."

Eyes That Do Not See tells the life story of Henry Kearney. He grows up in Ireland and immigrates to America in the 1800s, going through various difficulties and struggles along the way.

I thought the author wrote with a good eye to detail and captured the way the relationships between friends and family impact people. There was also interesting aspects about history, both Irish and American. I’m glad this author chose to share this story!