Fields of Bounty: (A Christian Fiction Historical Romance Family Saga Set in Late 1860's Nebraska)

Leah's Garden #3

by Lauraine Snelling

Lilac Nielsen's dream has come true: handsome young Reverend Ethan Pritchard has finally noticed her. Yet she must balance this new courtship with the pursuit of another dream--the publication of her artwork in a New York paper. She has secretly been submitting a series of drawings under a pen name, and if anyone traces the drawings back to her, the entire Nielsen family could be put in danger.

As their family farm expands and Lilac's relationship with the reverend grows, it's a time of new beginnings. But when a family crisis back in Ohio shakes the Nielsen sisters, can they continue to build the new life they've begun in Nebraska? And will Lilac be prepared for what God has in store for her future?

Bestselling author Lauraine Snelling invites you back to Salton, Nebraska, where friendship and romance blossom.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Historical, Audiobook

448 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2023

About the author

Award-winning and bestselling author Lauraine Snelling has over 80 books published with sales of over 4.5 million. Her original dream was to write horse books for children. Today, she writes adult novels about real issues centered on forgiveness, loss, domestic violence and cancer in her inspirational contemporary women’s fiction titles and historical series, including the favorite, Blessing books about Ingeborg Bjorklund and family.

Lauraine enjoys helping others reach their writing dreams by teaching at writer’s conferences across the county. She and her husband Wayne have two grown sons, and a daughter in Heaven. They live in the Tehachapi Mountains with a Basset named Sir Winston ob de Mountains, Lapcat, and “The Girls” (three golden hens).

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Fields of Bounty, Lauraine Snelling and Kiersti Giron wrap up the Leah's Garden series, although there are a couple of loose ends that could be tied up in another book in the series. This novel focuses on Lilac and her infatuation for Ethan Pritchard, but the main focus, I believe, is listening to God, seeing God's protection over us, around us,

Lilac does a lot of growing in this book, and she learns a lot about herself, and in learning who she really is, she also learns the purpose God laid out for her life. She learns that running ahead of God brings pain, that what seems good may not be best.

I found many biblical principles at play in this book that made me do some deeper reflection, although that may not have been the primary anchor for the book.

The characters have continued developing throughout the series. They struggle, they grow, and they mature. It's the kind of thing that readers want to see, even though this is a "feel-good" type book. I love the way the book ended with Lilac being content with her situation and the love of the sisters being so full and wholesome. The way they cooperatively work together is an example many of us should follow.

There are a couple of loose ends that could be tied up in another novel in the series, but it won't keep me up at night if there is not another installment.

This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a packet of seeds for your flower garden.

Bethany House provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m late to starting this Leah’s Garden series but I was able to read this as a stand-alone although I would love to go back and read the previous two books. First of all I absolutely loved the beautiful cover that made me want to read Lilac’s story. A story of sisters who love and care for each other and of faith that binds them together no matter what. A look into 1867 Nebraska farm life with strong women who are also creative with music and Lilac is an artist. I wanted to actually see her sketches after reading this. Ms Snelling has a gift of bringing a story to life that you want to immerse yourself in and not put down. I loved the lesser character of Climie and could identify with what she was struggling with, but I won’t say more as I don’t want to spoil it. All in all a great well written story that takes you back in time and makes you not want to leave. A gobsmacking must read in my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Jjean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this book as ARC and found it very interesting - started off a little slow to me but then it becomes a page turner - Christian book with family issues - romance - and how life was in Nebraska in the 1800's - 3rd book in series but well written & easy to follow....

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first two books in the series but this one was just disappointing nothing got settled it was like the whole plot building to one point and then she just switched it

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, Fields of Bounty has a beautiful cover that draws me in quickly. But behind the cover, the story holds even more beauty.

I connected with Lilac upon meeting her. I love her kind heart and how much growth she shows throughout the story. Her faith is tested, and the spiritual and familial ties binds it all together. Listening to God is an important message that is conveyed so well.

The townsfolk are just as important as the main characters, in my opinion, giving the atmosphere of this story a homey feeling and with supportive hearts. This wholesome, inspiring, feel-good story has a wonderful ending, and the characters feel like friends.

First Line: “That was certainly lovely,” Rev. Ethan Pritchard said.
Series: Leah’s Garden book 3
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Lauraine Snelling
Page Count: 320

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nebraska, 1857, the Neilsen sisters continue to make a life in Salton. Two sisters already married, Lark & Lilac work the farm. Lilac is conflicted in her approaching marriage to Rev. Ethan. Ethan facing scandal leans on the Lord for guidance along with the aid of his father. Things are not going according to what Ethan figured his life would be like.

I enjoyed the journey with the sisters and the rest of the community of Salton. The characters go through lots of changes, some are joyful, and others left them facing disappointment and changes in their lives they didn't see coming.

The historical aspects of the 1800s fascinated me. I loved the small community life and how they supported each other. Even though I haven't read any of the other books in the series, I was able to sort out the characters. The writing style was easy to read and enjoyable. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and willingly choose to review it.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will have to go back and read the first two books in this series by Lauraine Snelling and Kiersti Gordon because I really like this family and community they have created. I received this third book in the series in advanced reader's form from the publisher and NetGalley. This is my own unsolicited opinion. I enjoyed it very much.
Lilac Neilsen is coming into her own as she toils with her sisters. With the aid of her brother she begins to submit her artwork in an effort to be published. After a year of watching and waiting she has attracted the attention of the local minister who wants to court her. This gets very interesting.
I appreciate the feel the pair of writers have for the time period. Their knowledge of how things we're done in the mid 1800's gives a sense of reality to the story. Great detail gives a natural flow to the daily life of this hard working family in the early days of Nebraska. I was able to catch up easily with the background of the series and will watch for future books that just has to be coming in the future. I love the unpredictable ending.

[Linda Klager · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed getting to know the four Neilsen sisters. This book (an ARC) was the third in the Leah's Garden series. I would like to learn more about what happened in books 1 and 2.

Rev. Ethan Pritchard wanted to have a wife by his side to help him in his ministry. He had his heart set on Lilac Nielsen.

Lilac was a talented illustrator and was earning money to help with the expenses that these girls had in running a farm. It amazes me how much work they had to do each day. Their family was a very close-knit one and they very much cared for each other.

There was heartache and goodness in this book. It is a very clean read and I recommend this author very much.

I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Leah's Garden series. I thoroughly enjoyed this story reading about the 4 sisters who had traveled to Nebraska and were each making a life for themselves while still working together for each other's benefit even though the two oldest had married. This book focuses on the youngest sister Lilah who is an extremely talented artist. She is being courted by the pastor who has run into problems of his own, and Lilah has to decide if their relationship is really the right one for them.

Even though I really liked the book, I would recommend that you read this series in order. I had not read books one or two and felt that there was missing backstories that would have made me enjoy this book even more.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am read this book for NetGalley. The 3rd installment brings us to Lilac. She is finally being courted by Reverend Ethan Pritchard. Through a series of unfortunate circumstances both of their faiths will be tested in unimaginable ways. The book also catches up on other characters from the first two books. I absolutely love this series!! I cannot wait for the next book.

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just say how much I loved the ending. I was dearly hoping for that sort of an ending, especially as I got further through the book, but I really didn’t think the authors would do it. I am so pleased they took that risk and I am so here for it. Sign me up for book four, please, because I need it now.

Once again we join the Neilsen sisters and their ever growing family as they make a life for themselves in Salton. With two sisters married and their families growing, Lark and Lilac work the farm and are constantly looking for new ways to provide for their family. Lilac is attempting to publish her drawings in newspapers back east and Lark is looking at purchasing a mowing machine, as well as increasing their livestock. When the Reverend Ethan starts to notice Lilac, it’s everything she ever dreamed, since tying to ignore his attraction to her sister. But courting the minister is a lot to balance between her work as an artist and helping Lark on the farm. Scandal, fire, new friends, new babies (human and animal), blossoming romance and new starts are just some of the things the sisters will face this season.

I’ve really enjoyed journeying with the Neilsen sisters in this series. From them just starting their journey west to them now settling well into their community and making great changes. They are business women, all of them, and entrepreneurs. I love the freedom the authors give these strong women and the ever growing family and group of friends they draw around them.

In this book, while it does focus on Lilac, we readers get to spend time with Lark and Climie. Climie finally gets the good fortune and love that she deserves. Her story of new starts and romance with Jesse was the perfect addition to this book.

Spoilers ahead, but I just can’t not talk about this. It’s not often you read a romance novel and hope your two main characters don’t end up together. I didn’t love Ethan right from the start and the more I read the more I could see he just wasn’t right for Lilac. Maybe the authors would bring them together, a strong conversation and Ethan would change his ways. That’s the best I was hoping for. And then we came to it. I am so pleased the authors gave Lilac her freedom and bravery to take the path she did. I’m guessing Lark might feature in the next book and I can’t wait to read more about this determined and loveable family.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this story and how it illustrates grace and a multitude of faith as we follow a family whose sisters are close. They help each other on the farm, with children and give emotional support when needed. I loved watching the town grow from the beginning stages and blossomed over time. The small town feeling is evident as the townspeople help each other out and encourage each other when they face tragedy.

It was exciting to see Lilac become more confident as her drawings were a hit with a newspaper. I could picture the way she brought the town to life with her tender sketching of a picnic, a family sitting on the porch or a look between sweethearts. It all comes together to bring life to the story. Lilac struggles with a decision that could change her life. Her prayers lead her to be strong as she decides her future.

The other sisters have trials as well but through each stumbling block, they grow closer. It is a beautiful story that shows how important family is and the sacrifices made to keep food on the table. Their faith is evident in every decision made and I liked how we watch them grow spiritually.

I need to mention Ethan who is the preacher for two towns. His heart for God’s work is evident as he wants to help start new churches in the area. It will come at a cost when the woman he falls in love with must decide if she wants to be a preacher’s wife. It is hard work and there is little time for yourselves as you take care of the congregations needs. I admired Ethan and how he wanted to follow in his father and brothers footsteps. There is a little plot twist when jealousy and bitterness makes someone bring false claims against Ethan.

I enjoyed reading how God worked in many lives in the book and brought joy to many. It was fun to watch a town start from the beginning and work together to make it a place where people want to put down roots. I adored the sisters and how they helped others and shared in celebrations when a wedding or the birth of a baby happened. It is a simple life that is filled with promise and God who brings unity when a lie tries to ruin someone’s reputation.

As Lilac and her sisters follow God’s direction for their lives they realize how important it is to follow His path for their future. It is okay to say no to something when you know it is not where God wants you. It is a journey where love, dreams, faith and family come together to find their path to happiness.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fields of Bounty by Lauraine Snelling takes readers back to 1857 in Salton, Nebraska to visit the Nielson sisters. I thought Fields of Bounty was well-written with developed characters. I have enjoyed getting to know the Nielson family. They are a close, loving family. I like how they are there for each other. We have gotten to watch the main characters struggle as they establish themselves in the new town, work hard to keep expanding the town and achieve their dreams, and mature as individuals. Fields of Bounty features Lilac Nielson who catches the attention of Ethan Pritchard, their pastor. We also get to catch up with the rest of the Nielson clan as well as some of the townspeople. Lilac grows up in this book. It is nice to see her mature. I like how Lilac story ends. I love the path the author chose for Lilac. Lilac learns that God has a plan for her life and that dashing ahead is counterintuitive (bring her nothing but disappointment and pain). I liked the life lessons in the story and how the author tied them to God plus provided relevant Bible passages. Some of the ideas presented caused me to dig out my Bible. I like how they provided deeper contemplation. I can tell that the author did her research for this series. We get a glimpse at what life was like on a Nebraska farm in the 1850s. Fields of Bounty is a feel-good story. People do experience difficulties and heartache, but they work to overcome life’s challenges and become better human beings. I was left with a couple of lingering questions when I finished the story. I hope there will be more books featuring the Nielson family and the town of Salton. Fields of Bounty is the third book in Leah’s Garden. I believe it is best to read the series in order. It allows you to follow the Nielson family from the beginning. There are a number of characters and new ones are introduced. It is a challenge to keep all of them straight along with their storylines. A list of characters at the beginning of the book would have been helpful. I like that the author created strong, smart female characters. They are businesswoman who are working to expand their farms and the town. Fields of Bounty is a heartwarming tale with a hectic harvest, a patient pastor, a helpful family, a busy boarding house, and witty women.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields Of Bounty by Lauraine Snelling with Kiersti Giron is a marvellous Christian historical novel that will leave you smiling. It is the third book in Leah’s Garden series but can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in order as each one follows on from the previous books. This one is set in 1867.
Once more we join the four Nielsen sisters as they continue to make their lives in a new prairie town. Each book focuses on a different sister. It is Lilac, the youngest, in this book.
We see how life is not always fair, but God is always faithful. We question why bad things happen to the faithful people of God. We do not know the answer but “this hasn’t taken Him by surprise.” God sees our end from our beginning. It is in the hard times that we learn and we grow.
New life is springing up in all its forms – from livestock to crops to babies. Everything is multiplying. We need to remember that all good things come from our Father. “I can’t say thank you enough. Our Father is so gracious.” God longs and delights to give us good gifts.
It is important to start the day right and to dedicate it to God. “He headed over without his usual morning time of devotions today… It was never wise to head into battle unprepared.” Each day presents us with challenges. We need to be grounded in God in order to have the right frame of mind.
There are times in life when we are afraid. “Fear is not what God has given us.” God asks us to trust Him. When we trust God, we need not fear because we know that God walks beside us.
Everyone will face grief over the course of their lives. “God is in our sorrows… He weeps with us while giving us hope that our grief won’t last forever.” Our grief will end. Lives may be altered but we can have a hope for tomorrow because God is already there.
A character has suffered in the past at the hands of an abusive husband. Good, godly friends have offered love and support. Now there is a chance for a brighter tomorrow.
We see that even when others spread untruths about us, we need to hold on to the hope in God that the truth will come to light.
Once more I loved all the characters. They bring a brightness and a vitality to life.
I am loving this Leah’s Garden series and am on to the final book next.

[Conny Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

“And will Lilac be prepared for what God has in store for her future?” the back jacket states in Lauraine Snelling’s advanced reader copy of Fields of Bounty.

~ What ~
The third book in the Leah’s Garden series, this three-hundred-and-twenty-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance involving an up-and-coming artist who trusts in God as she courts a pastor. With the use of the slang word drat, topics of illness, physical abuse, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The book is written with Kiersti Giron.

Set in Nebraska in the mid-1800s, this ongoing tale about four sisters continues with the youngest, Lilac, who loves to draw and is infatuated with the small town’s pastor. When Ethan asks to court her, she is thrilled but too busy to get to know him and wary that he may not approve of her artwork publications in a newspaper.

~ Why ~
Reading about life in America a hundred-and-fifty years ago has always interested me, and this one is well described. I liked the hometown feeling of the characters and how they continually supported and helped each other while seeking the Almighty for answers. Adding the many written-out Bible verses, hymns, and prayers was thoughtful. I appreciated the ending.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like this story of how trusting God is pertinent to a happy life. Since I did not read the two prior books in the series, I had no clue who was who and was confused by the plethora of characters including their named pets.

~ Wish ~
I hope the final copy includes a list of characters as it would help readers. It would have been ideal to add the eternal plan of salvation, but it may have been in a prior book. I prefer all pronouns of God to be capitalized for reverence.

~ Want ~
If you read the prior books in the series, you may enjoy this one that is updated with old and introduces new characters as they learn to trust in God, but you may get confused with some of the distractions.

Thanks to Bethany House and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's time for book three of the Leah's Garden Series! This is the last book and I'm so sad about that. I have enjoyed this series and really wanted for more to come because I'm not ready to leave this family!

In this book we're mainly focusing on Lilac though everyone is front and center and featured as well. Lilas has taken to making artwork and having her brother sell it for her. She mails it to Anders and he mails it off and then mails the payments back to her. She does this under an assumed name of course and it's mail surprise surprise.

Lilac has also had a secret or not so secret crush on the local pastor Ethan. He had favored her sister over her but now he's courting Lilac. When scandal and more come knocking at the door will she realize whether Ethan is really for her or not?

Add in some of Larkspur realizing just how good a friend she does have in a male person who has popped up in all three books as well. I've been rooting for him and Larkspur for a long long time.

Oh and we can't forget Climie! She finds out her husband is dead! Finally! If you know you know. And then she has to come to a decision about the feelings she and Jesse have been having for each other.

This is such a wonderful book. I really loved it and will read it again I'm sure. Again the worst part is that it's the end of the story!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of author Lauraine Snelling for many years. I was excited to be able to read her latest release. Fields of Bounty is Book 3 in the Leah's Garden series. I have not yet read the first 2 books in this series, but I am excited to go back and read those books.

We are taking back to the 1860's in Nebraska and Farm Life. Lilac Nielsen is enjoying life to the fullest right now. She is happy that the man she has had a crush on, Reverend Ethan Pritchard, is finally noticing her. She has wanted to be in a relationship with him for a while and now her dreams are coming true. She has another wish she hopes to fulfill soon. She really would love to see her artwork published in a New York Paper. She has been careful to use a Pen name for her work as she does not want others to discover where she and her sisters have moved to. Lilac is very concerned for herself and her sisters when a Crisis happens in Ohio, where most of her family still lives. Will Lilac and her sisters continue to be safe in their new environment? Will Lilac put trust in God for their new beginnings and for the future?

WOW, I was captivated by this book from the very first chapter! Lilac's dreams coming true is so heartwarming and a wonderful way to start the book. Her joy and happiness are just amazing. I love how she loves her sisters so much and wants to keep them safe. The relationship with Ethan was so beautiful and watching it grow warmed my heart. Even when Family Crisis strikes. Lilac relies on her faith to get through it with her family. This book is one of Forgiveness, Faith, and Family. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction Romance. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third book in the Leah’s Garden series focuses on Lilac. She is surprised when Ethan, the young reverend, wants to court her. She has a busy life, drawing illustrations to sell to a New York newspaper as well as helping out her sisters on the farm. But having a family of her own has always been a part of her dream as well as being a successful artist. And since Lilac has been infatuated with Ethan for months, this seems like an answer to her prayers. But plans can go awry, and their lives are soon more hectic than ever. They have even more work to do when her brother’s store back east burns down and her other brother leaves them to go back east to help rebuild the store. But Lilac’s idea of romance and Ethan’s aren’t quite the same thing. Ethan wants Lilac to accompany him on his calls and visits, but Lilac really doesn’t want to give up anything she is doing, and trying to fit in all of Ethan’s demands is becoming too stressful. She must decide if she can be the wife Ethan desires without giving up too much of herself and her own desires. The story takes place in Nebraska in 1867 and the two authors do a credible job of setting that scene. Not everything goes well for all the main characters. Ethan finds himself in some serious trouble that could affect his ministry. Lilac feels like she is being pulled in two directions. Other secondary storylines add interest to the novel. Christian ethics and beliefs are evident throughout the novel. All told, it is a well written and entertaining tale, and sure to please readers of Christian fiction.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of Bounty, by Lauraine Snelling with Kriersti Giron, is book three in the Leah's Garden series. This story does take over where the second ends, so it is best to read this series in order. It is a very well written, fun and easy to read story that is set in Nebraska in 1867. Lilac is one of four sisters who moved to Nebraska from Ohio. Ethan is the local pastor who she plans to marry. Both go through struggles and trials that show their trust and faith in the Lord.

This is such a good story, infact, I have enjoyed the whole series. There are so many things I like about it. When the sisters first arrived a sody was built to live in. Two of the sisters still live there and care for the animals and fields. The other two are married and starting their own families, but they are still close and help a lot. I enjoy how talented, strong, and knowledgeable they are. They plan ahead for future needs, this comes out when they are making butter with the last of the mild a cow will give for a while. They hunt for the food for the whole family as well as the boarding house. I especially like how the family is there for each other and watches out for each other. Yet when Lilac is struggling with a decision, they don't interfer until she askes for advice. The connections they have to each other show with how Lilac and her older brother work secretly together to get her drawing published. She even turns to him first when she starts questioning her future plans.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though this was the first in the series that I’ve read, it was enjoyable. There were lots of characters to learn and I was a little confused at first, so I recommend reading the first two before this one if possible. The characters were likable and I feel they could be friends of mine if given time and space. The story took place in Salton, Nebraska in the year 1867. The Nielsen family was very close and had to rely on each other through struggling finances, illness and everyday occurrences. Lilac had always had a passion and talent for drawing. When she submitted some of her drawings to a newspaper in New York, they liked them and offered her money for each one on a continuing basis. Being female she had to use her father’s initials and have them sent by her brother for them to even be considered for publication.
They also owned a boardinghouse which supplied employment for some of the locals. Lilac and her sisters had a farm to run that kept them busy. Two of the sisters were married and Lark and Lilac were not. Their traveling preacher got caught up in some untrue rumors which caused a split in their community. Things looked bleak. All the character’s reliance on God was refreshing, even when things didn’t seem to go their way. I was totally surprised and blown away with the ending of the book but still enjoyed the overall story
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.

[Charity Andrews · Rating 4 out of 5]

The premise of this book is that Lilac Nielsen is part of a growing family out West. Her and her sisters have made lives for themselves by doing odd jobs and becoming "entrepreneurs" of sorts.

The Reverend, Ethan Pritchard, is tired of all the eligible ladies seeking him out, so he decides to court the lovely and sensible Lilac.

I will start out by admitting that I have not read the previous two books in this series, so I know that puts me at a major disadvantage. It is very difficult to follow so many characters when you aren't caught up.

That being said, there were a LOT of characters! It was very difficult to keep up with so many names constantly being introduced. I've honestly never read a book with so many. It led to too many story lines and distractions. I felt like the story couldn't just be about the main characters, but was about this huge family and all of their friends...and the town too!

Overall, I thought it was a really sweet and innocent story. There were a lot of great elements to it, and you can tell that Lauraine really envisions her characters and the entire story.

I certainly recommend starting from book one if you are going to read this series! I think you will get so much more out of it and enjoy the depth of the writing that way.

Even starting at the beginning, I think it would be a bit much for me to have so many things going on. It's certainly not bad writing, but a style preference. Plenty will enjoy and love these stories!

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of Bounty is book three in the Leah's Garden series. The series is written by Lauraine Snelling. This author was one of the first Christian Authors I came across when I switched to Christian Fiction. She has written so many wonderful stories. I have not read the other books in the series. I will go back and get the previous back stories, however I was not lost for the author does a good job filling in gaps.

Lilac Nielsen has been sending in her sketches under a different name. A male name. She feels that noone would take her seriously if they knew they were drawings from a female. Her brother has been helping her with sending the correspondence. One magazine is interested and willing to pay for weekly features. She is very excited about this. Then she starts courting the Reverend Ethan. Ethan feels that Lilac would make an excellent pastor's wife. She is kind, patient and compassionate. Everything seems to be going smoothly until both hit brick walls.

There is a family crisis in Ohio - will it shake the Nielsen's faith? Ethan is facing a possible scandel of his own. The author has done a wonderful job in weaving in faith elements to the story. Trusting God and forgiveness are big ones in this book.

I enjoyed the story. Lilac grew throughout the book. The characters are well written and the storyline is intriguing. Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book focuses on Lilac, the youngest of the four Nielsen sisters, two of whom are now married. Lark and Lilac remain on the original farm but Lark, the entrepreneur of the family is always looking for ways to increase their income. She dreams of building a boarding house as the town of Salton in 1867 continues to grow and news of the railroad passing through the town will only increase that need. She also dreams of purchasing a mower as harvesting their grain by hand is slow and laborious.

They have depended on financial assistance from their brother still living back in their home town but then disaster strikes and his aid is no longer guaranteed. Lilac is a gifted artist and has been sending drawings back to her brother for him to submit to a variety of newspapers, hoping for one of them to accept and publish them and subsequently increasing their income.

She has always been attracted to the local minister but he seems to see her only as one of his parishioners. The sisters toil long hours on their little farm while continuing to try to work on their dream of establishing a seed company named Leah's Garden. It was something their mother, Leah had always dreamed of. Both of their parents are deceased.

I'm enjoying this series and looking forward to reading the fourth book to discover what happens next.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of Bounty
by Lauraine Snelling
Pub Date 21 Mar 2023
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance


In conjunction with Bethany House and Netgalley, I have been given a copy of Fields of Bounty for review:



To realize their true destiny, they must put aside their own plans and rely on their faith.



Lilac Nielsen has finally realized her dream: handsome young Reverend Ethan Pritchard has taken notice of her. In spite of this, she must balance this new courtship with the pursuit of another dream--the publication of her artwork in a New York newspaper. Under a pen name, she has secretly submitted a series of drawings. If anyone traces these drawings back to her and discovers where Lilac and her sisters settled, the entire Nielsen family is at risk.



The expansion of their family farm and Lilac's relationship with the reverend mark a period of new beginnings. However, when a family crisis in Ohio shakes the Nielsen sisters, can they continue to build the new life they have begun in Nebraska? Is Lilac prepared for what God has in store for her in the future?  



I give Fields of Bounty five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of Bounty by Lauraine Snelling is a work of historical fiction. It is the third book in the Leah’s Garden series. The author does an excellent job of building the characters and backstory for Lilac Nielsen and her sisters. I loved getting to know the characters and reading about their lives. I also loved getting to know the other characters in this story.

As a single man who serves as a pastor, Reverend Ethan Pritchard finds himself navigating the world of pushy mothers and over-eager daughters. But he believes he has found his soulmate in Lilac Nielsen. As the two begin a courtship, unexpected events occur. The two must work to find God’s actual plans for their lives. I loved some of the unexpected twists and turns this story took.

However, I must say I hope there will be more books coming so I can read more about these characters and their lives. I definitely found myself wanting more by the end of this book.

So if you enjoy works of historical fiction, check out Fields of Bounty by Lauraine Snelling for yourself. I definitely recommend it. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series, Leah's Garden, is a series about family, mostly surrounding four sisters in Nebraska. I have not read the first two books, so I do not have all the background information, but this family is close in their love for one another and the way they support each other. This family also knows the meaning of hard work, yet they are very thankful for it and all of its bounty.

We have a couple of romances in this story. Younger sister Lilac has a couple of her dreams coming to fruition. One, her art has been accepted by a publisher, though under her late father's name. And two, the town's pastor, Ethan has finally taken notice of her. All seems to be working out until trouble comes knocking.

This story ended not quite the way I thought it would. Not sure what I think about that. When decisions are made though, Lilac and her sisters seem content with them. That is a lesson in and of itself.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

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[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall I actually didn't enjoy reading this book. It's the third book in the series and I hadn't read the first two. I didn't know who many of the characters were and there were many. Allot of time was spent describing animal characters when I was trying to figure out who the people were especially since the animals and people all had flower type names. I also didn't feel like there was much of a build to the climax of the story. I kept thinking that something should happen. When it finally did, I felt relieved like I was ready for something, anything to happen because it took so long for anything to happen. I did appreciate that at the end of the story lilac did not actually marry the peacher. I thought the book was the typical Christian romance where the girl and guy get together by the end but when she broke off the marriage I was excited that it wasn't the typical ending. I didn't mind the book by the end and skimmed to find out what happened. I am interested to know what happens to lilac and lark and even Ethan but not enough to read another one in that series.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I haven’t read the other books in this series, but this is ok to be read on its on. I have enjoyed Lauraine’s books and this one didn’t disappoint either. This series is about four sisters, each sister is named after one of their mom’s flowers. Lilac Nielsen is the star of this book. Lilac’s dreams are coming true since the new handsome young Reverend Ethan Pritchard has finally decided that she is worthy of his noticing her. I like Lilac and enjoyed journeying with her as she court’s the Bishop. I enjoyed these characters so much, and learning about their personalities and what part each of them have in the story. This is a beautifully written story and I am happy to give this book Five Stars. I hope you enjoy this sweet historical fiction as much as I did.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not rpequired to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I received the ARC copy through Netgalley, I did not realize it was book 3 in a series. I wish I had read the other 2 books first. This is because I enjoyed the book but also because it would make the story more precise with the missing background. With that being said, I did enjoy the book.
The story flowed quite well. The characters, at least the primary 2, were quite well-developed. The editing was also very well done though not perfect. The imperfections did not really affect the story.
This is a Christian book though it is not a preachy story. It shows how the main characters rely on God in difficult situations. It also shows how you need to rely on God and not your own thoughts, especially when making life-altering decisions.
If you like stories set in pioneer times that are clean, Christian, and overall a good, captivating story, you will enjoy this book. I give it a 4 out of 5-star rating.