Dakota Plains

Lauraine Snelling (born 1949) is an American author of over 60 historical and contemporary novels. She is known for her meticulously researched and emotionally captivating stories that explore themes of faith, family, and community. Snelling was raised in rural Minnesota and attended Bethel University. She began writing as a hobby in her 40s, and her first novel, "Dakota Dream," was published in 1994. Her subsequent works include the bestselling Red River of the North series, the Daughters of the Promise trilogy, and the Song of Acadia series. Snelling's novels have received critical acclaim for their strong characters, authentic settings, and heartfelt storylines. She has won numerous awards, including the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association's Gold Medallion Award (three times), the Christy Award (twice), and the Midwest Booksellers Choice Award.