Picture a storyteller who spun tales of faith, family, and frontier life with a Norwegian flair—meet Lauraine Snelling! This award-winning American author has penned over 80 books, blending Christian fiction, historical romance, and heartfelt women’s stories. With millions of copies sold, Snelling’s novels, like her beloved Red River of the North series, captivate readers with their rich detail and real-life struggles.
From her cozy home in California’s Tehachapi Mountains, Snelling crafts stories that resonate globally, translated into Norwegian, Danish, and German. Her knack for weaving themes of forgiveness and resilience has earned her accolades and a spot in the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame. Ready to dive into her world?
The Making of Lauraine Snelling
Lauraine Snelling’s journey began with a dream to write horse stories for kids. A mother of three teenagers in the 1980s, she kicked off her career with *Tragedy on the Toutle* in 1982, inspired by the eruption of Mount St. Helens. Her Norwegian heritage deeply influenced her, sparking a passion for historical fiction about immigrant life. Snelling’s early love for storytelling blossomed into a prolific career, fueled by her faith and a desire to inspire.
Lauraine Snelling’s Unforgettable Stories
Snelling’s bibliography is a treasure trove of Christian fiction and historical romance. Her *Red River of the North* series follows the Bjorklund family’s trials and triumphs in 19th-century Dakota Territory. *An Untamed Land*, the series opener, won the Silver Angel Award for its gripping tale of Norwegian immigrants. The *Blessing, ND* series, spanning 22 books, continues this saga, blending heartwarming moments with themes of grief and redemption.
Beyond historical fiction, Snelling shines in contemporary romance. *One Perfect Day* explores faith and healing through a mother’s loss, showcasing her signature richly detailed style. Her *Golden Filly* series, aimed at young readers, gallops through horse-filled adventures, proving her versatility. Whether tackling domestic violence or cancer, Snelling’s stories resonate with authenticity and hope.
Her writing style is a warm embrace—moving, romantic, and deeply faith-driven. Readers praise her for crafting characters who face life’s toughest challenges with courage, making her novels both relatable and uplifting.
Why Lauraine Snelling Matters
Lauraine Snelling’s impact stretches beyond her bookshelves. With over 4 million copies sold, she’s a beacon in Christian fiction, offering stories that uplift and heal. Her focus on women’s issues—forgiveness, loss, and resilience—has built a loyal readership, especially among those seeking faith-based narratives. Snelling’s teaching at writers’ conferences nurtures aspiring authors, cementing her legacy as a mentor.
Her induction into the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame in 2012 celebrates her cultural contributions, honoring her Norwegian roots. Snelling’s ability to blend history, faith, and human struggle ensures her stories endure, inspiring readers to find hope in their own journeys.
About Lauraine Snelling
- Began writing in 1982 with *Tragedy on the Toutle*.
- Published over 80 books, with 4+ million copies sold.
- Won the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Inspirational Fiction.
- Lives in Tehachapi, California, with her husband, Wayne, and Basset hound, Winston.
Snag *An Untamed Land* and dive into Lauraine Snelling’s heartfelt Christian fiction today!