A Dance in Donegal

Author: Jennifer Deibel
Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: February 2, 2021

All her life, Boston-born Moira Doherty has relished her mother's descriptions of the Emerald Isle. When her mother dies unexpectedly in the summer of 1920, Moira is compelled to fulfill her dying wish--that she become the teacher in Ballymann, the beloved village in Donegal, Ireland, she's heard so much about.

After an arduous voyage, Moira begins a challenging new job in an unfamiliar and ancient country. Though a few locals offer a warm welcome, others are distanced by superstition and suspicion. Rumors about Moira's mother are unspoken in her presence but threaten to derail everything she's journeyed to Ballymann to do. Moira must rely on the kindness of a handful of friends--and the strength of Sean, an unsettlingly handsome thatcher who keeps popping up unannounced--as she seeks to navigate a life she'd never dreamed of . . . but perhaps was meant to live.

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Reviewer: Linda Klager

The cover of the book shows a beautiful woman looking over Ireland's coast. She is mesmerized by the landscape.

I was glad that the author included a map of Ballymann, Ireland. It helped me to picture the events that happened in this book. I wished that the author would have included a glossary and pronunciation guide for all the Gaelic words.

The story centered on Moira Doherty and her mother. Before Moira's mother passed away, she made Moira promise that she would go back to Ireland. Moira's mother even secured a job for her as a school teacher.  

There was a mystery surrounding Moira's Mothers life in Ballymann. Many people judged Moira because of what they thought happened years ago. This caused much pain and suffering to Moira. Through it all, Moira kept her faith In God.  

I loved the relationships that Moira made with Sean, Brid, Peg, and Colm. Peg and Colm had such love for each other and with God. They loved all people unconditionally, like God would like for all of us to do. And Peg learned how to truly forgive when it was necessary to move on with her life.

There were many superstitions and traditions that the Irish people kept. It amazed me to know all that they held as truth. You will learn a lot about their life and customs.  

I thank the author for a very well written book and a history lesson, too.

I received this book courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews.

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