Minnesota: The Prairie Blossoms with Love in Four Historical Novels

by JoAnn A. Grote

In 1877, the citizens of Chippewa Falls, Minnesota, are recovering from the devastation of a five-year grasshopper infestation. Throughout the years that follow, countless hardships, trials, and life-threatening dangers will plague the settlers as they struggle for survival amidst the harsh environs and crude conditions of the state's southwest plains. But Chippewa Falls' determined townsfolk, as well as the area's farmers and prairie dwellers, refuse to admit defeat on the edge of America's frontier. The community comes together - fighting the elements of the majestic Minnesota landscape to build a place for themselves and their families for generations to come. Against this challenging backdrop and across the span of the next two decades, four young women - Laurina, Millicent, Pearl, and Amy - each find a faith that sustains them in the tough, uncertain times...a joy that surpasses all understanding..and the love of a man that compels them to stay.

Genres: Christian Fiction

480 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2003

About the author

JOANN GROTE lives in Minnesota, where she grew up. She uses the state for most of her story settings, and like her characters, JoAnn seeks to serve Christ in her work. She believes that readers of novels can receive a message of salvation and encouragement from well-crafted fiction. She has over 35 books to her credit, including novels, "The American Adventure" series for children, and the "Heartsong Presents Inspirational Romance" series. She captivates and addresses the deeper meaning between life and faith.

Reviews

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite collection of short stories! The characters stay with me and I come back to read their stories every few years!

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good Historical Christian fiction book.

[Dawn Patton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel the book was well written keeping one interested and drawing you into each character. As an inspirational novel it wasn't too overly religious yet could have spread the message out or changed it some. The stories could have been different, they basically all had the same theme. I would read her work again when presented to me.

[Joann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. Couldn't put it down.