Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 93 votes)
5 stars
32(34%)
4 stars
30(32%)
3 stars
31(33%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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93 reviews
July 15,2025
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Another chapter to the Norwegian families on the Red River


Love every character in this story. Lauraine's writing is so detailed that it makes me feel as if I know each and every one of them personally. This book is highly recommended to anyone who desires to read a story that is full of faith. As you read, you will find yourself laughing at the light-hearted moments and crying at the more emotional ones. However, throughout the entire journey, you will clearly see God's tender mercies shining through. It's a beautiful tale that will touch your heart and leave you with a sense of hope and inspiration. The Norwegian families on the Red River have many more adventures and experiences in store, and I can't wait to follow along and see what the future holds for them.
July 15,2025
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A friend loaned us these books.

To our surprise, they just keep coming. I had never dreamed that Lauraine Snelling had written such a large number of books.

At first, I never intended to read all of them. However, as I started reading, I found that I just couldn't put them down.

The stories are so engaging and the characters are so well-developed that I am completely hooked.

I have been spending all my free time reading these books and I can't wait to see what happens next in each story.

It's amazing how one author can have such a talent for writing and creating worlds that draw readers in and keep them entertained.

I am truly grateful to my friend for loaning me these books and introducing me to the wonderful works of Lauraine Snelling.

I highly recommend her books to anyone who loves a good story.
July 15,2025
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Linda, Central patron, June 2016, 5 stars:


The fifth book in the Red River of the North series delves into the story of the Bjorklund family who immigrated to the Dakotas many years ago. This particular installment centers around Mary Martha MacCallister, the sister of Jeb MacCallister. Her experiences with his family, which includes Katy, Manda, and Deborah, are explored in detail. While visiting them in Blessing, Mary Martha finds herself falling in love with Pastor Solberg.


The book is rich with the trials and tribulations that the people of Blessing encounter. They face various challenges, both personal and communal. These difficulties test their strength, faith, and resilience. Through it all, the characters grow and learn, forging deeper relationships and finding new meaning in their lives.


The Red River of the North series continues to captivate readers with its engaging stories and well-developed characters. This fifth book is no exception, offering a compelling narrative that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end.

July 15,2025
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The Red River of the North series is a captivating exploration of a remarkable waterway.

This river has a rich history and plays a significant role in the region. It winds its way through diverse landscapes, from fertile plains to charming towns.

The series delves into the various aspects of the Red River, including its ecological importance, the impact it has had on human settlement, and the cultural heritage it has inspired.

Through detailed research and vivid descriptions, readers are taken on a journey along the river, learning about its unique features and the stories that have unfolded along its banks.

Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or simply curious about the world around you, the Red River of the North series offers a fascinating and engaging read.

It provides a deeper understanding of this important river and the role it has played in shaping the lives of those who have lived and worked along its path.

So, come and discover the beauty and mystery of the Red River of the North through this captivating series.

July 15,2025
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Enjoying the simple, sweet and challenging story in this the 5th book of "pioneers" in the early 1900's is a truly delightful experience. The book takes us back to a time when life was full of hardships and uncertainties. The pioneers had to face many difficulties as they tried to build a new life in a strange land.


The story follows the adventures of a group of brave pioneers as they overcome one obstacle after another. We see their determination and courage in the face of adversity. The simple and sweet relationships between the characters add a touch of warmth to the story.


Despite the challenges they face, the pioneers never give up. They continue to work hard and strive for a better future. Their story is an inspiration to us all. It reminds us that no matter how difficult life may seem, we can always find the strength within ourselves to overcome it.

July 15,2025
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More and more people are coming to Blessing, ND. The town is constantly expanding with the addition of more and more businesses, and all of them seem to be thriving. However, there are also some unfortunate events happening. Some people have passed away, and women in the town seem to be having trouble getting pregnant. Despite these challenges, life in Blessing goes on. The minister gets married, which brings some joy and celebration to the community. Penny discovers more of her relatives, strengthening her family ties. Additionally, a school for the deaf is formed, providing educational opportunities for a special group of children. The people of Blessing continue to work hard and face the future with hope and determination.

July 15,2025
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The Bjorklund family's story is a truly captivating read.

In the Dakota territory, they experienced both the joys and the difficulties that life had to offer.

The good times were filled with laughter, love, and the simple pleasures of family life. They worked hard on their land, cultivating crops and raising livestock, and shared many happy moments together.

However, they also faced numerous hardships. The harsh climate, with its extreme temperatures and unpredictable weather, made farming a challenge. Droughts, floods, and other natural disasters threatened their livelihoods.

Despite these difficulties, the Bjorklund family remained strong and resilient. They supported each other through thick and thin, and their love and determination carried them through the toughest of times.

Their story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of family, and it serves as an inspiration to all who read it.
July 15,2025
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Mary Martha has been assisting Pastor Solberg at the school due to the influx of many new children.

She discovers a deep affection for the children and also develops a growing love for the pastor, although she still believes he loves Katie, her sister-in-law.

Katie is facing difficulties as she is extremely tired and experiencing swelling during her pregnancy.

Mary Martha is then called back to Missouri because of her mother's deteriorating health. She goes home solely to prepare for her mother's passing.

However, her heart remains in Dakota with her brother, the children, and John Solberg.

Before permanently leaving for Dakota, she receives a telegram informing her of Katie's and the baby's death during childbirth. Additionally, Anna, one of her school pupils whom she was tutoring for a lisp, has died from whooping cough. The sorrow continues to mount.

She returns to Dakota only to have Zeb leave to settle the girls' land, but he takes an excessive amount of time. After two months, he returns when the ground has thawed enough for the burial.

He is heartbroken and believes that living in Dakota will be impossible. His grief is misinterpreted by Manda, and she leaves with Deborah to their old claim.

When Mary Martha and Zeb catch up with them, they explain in uncertain terms that they are a family and families should stick together. Finally, Manda seems comforted, realizing that she is wanted.

Pastor Solberg proposes to Mary Martha after confirming that he doesn't love Katie anymore. He fell in love with Mary Martha herself.

Spring is in the air. Sewing machines appear in Penny's store, and all the women desire one. Sam, Hjelmer's friend from the railroad, comes to work in the Dakota's and will bring his family in the spring. Hjelmer is becoming more involved in politics and is traveling more. Mr. Gould, the friend from NY, sends a sign language book for Grace to assist with communication.
July 15,2025
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Tender Mercies is a truly sweet story that delves into the lives of Norwegian immigrants in the Dakota Territory during the late 1800s.

It vividly描绘s the numerous dangers they faced while trying to establish their lives and homes in this new and unfamiliar land. One particularly interesting aspect of the story is that the pastor also served as the school teacher.

This added an extra layer of complexity and authenticity to the narrative. I highly recommend this fifth book in the Red River of the North series. It offers a captivating look into a bygone era and the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us.

The author has done an excellent job of bringing the characters and their experiences to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction or the history of the American West.
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