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His Prairie Sweetheart

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A Home for Her Heart After being jilted at the altar, Southern belle Savannah Cox seeks a fresh start out West and accepts a teaching position in Minnesota. But between her students' lack of English, the rough surroundings and sheriff Elias Parker's doubts and distrust, Savannah's unprepared for both the job and the climate. However, she's determined to prove she can handle anything her new town throws her way. Elias gives it a week—or less—before the pretty schoolteacher packs her dainty dresses and hightails it back home. But no matter how many mishaps he has to rescue her from, Savannah doesn't give up. Yet the real test is to come—a brutal blizzard that could finally drive her away, taking his heart with her…

288 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published May 3, 2016

32 people are currently reading
179 people want to read

About the author

Erica Vetsch

59 books1,393 followers
Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com where you can learn about her books and sign up for her newsletter, and you can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspi... where she spends way too much time!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book517 followers
May 20, 2016
I loved this book on so many levels! As a teacher, as a northerner who moved South (the opposite of our dear Savannah in His Prairie Sweetheart), as someone who spends a lot of time with people from different cultures, and as a fan of KissingBooks.

The chemistry between Savannah and Elias is immediate, despite Elias’ reservations and the rather frigid reception he gives the Southern belle. Erica Vetsch takes us inside Elias’ head as well as Savannah’s, and I loved the added tension this gave the story. Particularly the romance angle! Being privy to Elias’ thoughts let us experience his reactions to Savannah which heightens the emotion of many moments between them. Even moments when he’s merely observing her interactions with someone else are made all the more heartclenching and yummy. (Yes, ‘yummy’ is a perfectly acceptable review term, thankyouverymuch.)

Besides having to survive the Minnesota winter, Savannah has to survive the Norwegian culture of her new community. Lots of cute opportunities for laughter here – as well as several heartwarming moments that made me smile.

In His Prairie Sweetheart, Erica Vetsch weaves a tale of romance but also one of faith, friendship, and strength of spirit. Humor is sprinkled throughout, and the chemistry between the two main characters is deliciously palpable. If you’re a fan of books such as the Canadian West series by Janette Oke, Melissa Jagears’ Unexpected Brides series, or Tamera Alexander’s Timber Ridge Reflections series, you need to make sure you snag yourself a copy of His Prairie Sweetheart!

(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Profile Image for Vickie McDonough.
Author 96 books371 followers
May 22, 2016
I recently read a couple of books by Erica Vetsch and loved them, so when I saw His Prairie Sweetheart, I snatched it up. I wasn't disappointed at all. The book is filled with conflict, humor, delightful secondary characters, and a wonderful romance between two people who loved and lost once and are afraid to love again. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am moving Erica Vetsch into my top-five favorite authors' list. Give it a try. I bet you'll love it too.
Profile Image for Joleen.
2,680 reviews1,225 followers
August 8, 2018
His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch

Jilted at the altar in Raleigh, NC, Savannah Cox decided to leave all her humiliation behind and take a teaching position in Snowflake, Minnesota.

When she arrived, she was met by the school superintendent and his brother, the town sheriff. Tyler Parker was welcoming (after all, he hired her) but Elias Parker was another story. He didn’t believe she’d last a few weeks, let alone even one Minnesota winter, especially coming from the South.



Parts of the story were sweet, but Elias had a chip on his shoulder which he took out on Savannah. That ruined what could have been a really good story. I would definitely not consider this a romance.
Profile Image for Gretchen.
299 reviews56 followers
December 3, 2020
I never thought I’d read a Love Inspired novel but here I am.😂 I know that’s snobbish of me, but I just never thought I would judging by the covers😂. I’ve really been wanting to read Erica Vetsch & this was on hoopla so I gave it a go. (I’m waiting for Christmas to read her newest Gentleman Spies series. I’ve heard such great things about them!)

This book was surprisingly well written & endearing. It was a super well written prairie story with the classic rich lady goes west to become a teacher & falls in love plot. I have read so many stinky prairie stories but this was not one of them. The characters & love story are well developed & the plot well driven. I can’t wait to read even more Erica Vetsch now! Also, this book is Christmasy which I’ve been wanting to read! 🎄☺️❤️
Profile Image for Paula-O.
558 reviews
May 25, 2016
Erica Vetsch is new to the LIH books but not new to being an author, Her first in the historical is "His Prairie Sweetheart".

Savannah Cox decides to go west and start a new life after being left at the alter. Somewhere no one knows of her humiliation.
When she arrives in Minnesota she finds a group of people that speak hardly any english and conditions are so much more severe then where she had lived,making quite the challenge for her.
Savannah is a strong young woman and though many expect her to leave quickly she stands strong.
She will learn how to teach the young children even with the language barrier.
Elias is to help the teacher getting started and around the town with introductions to the people. He speaks english well and translates when needed.
Elias had been hurt before when he became interested in a teacher that did not stay long,he is wary of this young woman and the two must learn to accept one another.
Come read a wonderful story of the strengths and the times of peril in this small town Can these two that need one another come to terms and accept a friendship that is budding?
My first book by this author but will not be last as she tells a great story.
Profile Image for Regina.
389 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2016
His Prairie Princess is a wonderful and delightful Christian western romance book, you'll fall in love in with instantly!

Savannah Cox is a Southern belle jilted at altar, she's tired of the whispers and looks, so she runs North. Her time in Minnesota isn't idealistic but she falls in love with the people, the culture, the area. Despite many mishaps, she truly adapts well to becoming a Minnesotan.

Sheriff Elias Parker doesn't give have a lot of faith in the Southern Belle because she's an 'outsider'. Plus Elias has been down this road before. He guards his heart.

Both Savannah and Elias overcome a lot and in the end love prevails.

I truly loved this story! I could relate to Savannah's plight, with moving to another state, I moved to SC in 2008, I felt like I moved to a different country! Everything was so different. But after six years I adapted. But now I'm back home in my native state.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, in Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Harlequin Books.
18.4k reviews2,804 followers
Read
June 6, 2016
" Well-written, well-researched and interesting insights into the Norwegian immigrant community, Vetsch’s debut is incredibly wonderful. However, it’s the lovely and sigh-worthy romance between the hero and heroine that will have readers cherishing this Top Pick" (4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews).
Profile Image for Anna |This Curly Girl Reads|.
412 reviews71 followers
July 6, 2024
3.5 rounded to 4⭐️
I was looking for a lighter (however not shallow) read after some more heavy but less uplifting ones, and this one fit the bill! In spite of my hesitations and thinking it may be silly…I found this book well written. You can’t judge a book always by its title or cover.

The intriguing history of the Norwegians settlers and their culture, the adventure of pioneering, likeable characters, the “cute” moments, and the deep ones—I really enjoyed this sweet story. I shouldn’t be totally surprised! Erica Vetsch is a gifted writer and I have enjoyed her other books.

So all in all this was a winner for me! Initially it reminded me of “When Calls the Heart” though it’s totally its own story. I would have loved to have seen a bit more spiritual content, but that’s my only “complaint”. The romance was very clean and sweet and the end satisfying. Content reader here.

Recommend: ages 13+
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,098 reviews134 followers
December 20, 2016
I have become a huge fan of historical fiction and after reading this story I have found an author that depicts the historical fiction with precision. Pioneer days were hard with little to eat at times . The weather could be treacherous and the author described a blizzard with such great detail I found myself shivering . I love when an author can make me feel like I can vividly see the story unfold before me.

Savannah is a very beautiful woman who has all the luxuries she needs. She is excited that she will become a married woman and finally the day is here to say her vows. Well not everything goes as plan when the groom doesn't show up. I can't imagine the hurt and embarrassment she must have felt when she realizes her dreams have just been shattered. The story takes on a great adventure when Savannah decides she needs to get away .

She finds herself in Snowflake, Minnesota as the new school teacher. Not everyone is thrilled to see her though. Elias who is the sheriff has seen several women leave the teaching position because they couldn't handle the harsh life out on the prairie. I really like Elias and found him to be a strong character. He does give Savannah a hard time but I found it to be quite funny at times. Who in their right mind comes to a small town out on the prairie in fancy clothes?

Savannah is in for a culture shock as she realizes that the townspeople are Norwegian immigrants. I laughed so hard as she tried to talk to the people and suddenly realized that they speak very little English . I think someone left out that little bit of information when she accepted the teaching job. She is in for an adventure that will test her faith . I loved how the author included scriptures in the story with the children learning them as part of their lesson at school. I have to mention probably one of the funnies things that happens to our beloved Savannah. Let's just say her introduction to a skunk was not the most enjoyable encounter. I think after that incident I would be packing my bags and saying goodbye Snowflake, Minnesota.

The author did an exceptional job of describing the history of Minnesota and the Dutch uprising of '62. I found it very fascinating and loved learning about the Norwegians and their customs. The story is so well written I didn't want it to end. Will Savannah convince Elias that she can endure the weather and any obstacles that come her way ? Is she the right choice as the teacher for this small close knit town? Be sure and grab a copy of this wonderful book and discover how pride, love and faith come together to make an unforgettable story .

I received a complimentary copy of this book. The review is my opinion and I was not compensated for it.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
May 24, 2016
His Prairie Sweetheart ( Love Inspired Historical )
By: Erica Vetsch

His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch is a Love Inspired Historical . I really enjoyed this story and the characters, both were easy to following and she made you feel like you was right there with them. A few times I felt moisture in my eyes and other times I caught myself laughing . Erica Vetsch did not disappoint me . She weaves a story that captured me right from the start and keeps you turning the pages to see what will happen next. I loved the two main characters Savannah and Elias. Savannah is a wealthy southerner and Elias is the sheriff in a community in Minnesota. Both are trying to get over relationships that went bad. There were sparks between the two from the start . Both are afraid to open their hearts again. There was a few times that I just wanted to sit both of them down and have a long talk with them . I loved His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch and I know you will too.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
3,967 reviews1,764 followers
April 20, 2016
What a completely captivating story! A Southern Belle headed for the wilds of Minnesota is such a unique angle for a historical romance. I shiver just thinking about hapless Savannah (even her name is Southern) facing the extreme winter temperatures she finds so far from home. But that's nothing compared to facing the frosty 'welcome' of the town sheriff. The push/pull attraction between these two certainly makes for a toe-curling read.

Elias is so sure Savannah won't last a week in their rugged community but she's determined to prove him wrong (though she secretly has her own misgivings.) And she has so much to learn. Not only about the fickle prairie weather, but about the Norwegian culture of her students. Lots of fodder for both angst and humour and Vetsch treats us with a delicious dose of both.

A captivating read that puts me in minds of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House series -- only for adults!
934 reviews4 followers
June 5, 2016
His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch. Southern belle Savannah cox was jilted at the altar. She didn't want people feeling sorry for her so she left her close family to accept a teaching position in Minnesota. She knows nothing about the area. The harsh winters and the fact most of the children didn't speak English. She stays with a family and has to walk to school in all kinds of weather. Sheriff Elias Parker doubts she will last very long. Two other school teachers left after a couple months. Savannah was determined to stay even though Elias pointed out she was going to last very long. She was proving him wrong. A big storm stranded the school children, Savannah and Elias at the school overnight. Savannah decided she wasn't fit to stay and planned to leave. Elias locks her in jail before she can leave and convinced her to stay. A very good read.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,374 reviews166 followers
July 25, 2016
Savannah Cox and Elias Parker have both been jilted.

Attempting to overcome her public humiliation, Savannah leaves her fine home in North Carolina and accepts a teaching position in the remote town of Snowflake, Minnesota. Reminding himself that a pretty face and a Southern drawl can never survive a Minnesota winter, Sheriff Elias Parker is determined to make the new school teacher think twice about signing on the dotted line. To no avail; the parasol toting princess decides to stay and the quick tempered sheriff just might want to change his mind.

This is a sweet story that nearly misses its happy ending!
6,174 reviews
June 27, 2016
His Prairie Sweetheart is a wonderful, sweet, and fun story.
Highly recommended.
5 plus stars.
Profile Image for Patrice Doten.
1,334 reviews19 followers
December 29, 2022
I don’t often gravitate to prairie/frontier romance, but what an excellent story! I was in a reading slump and this book, which had been on my TBR pile for a long time, piqued my interest with its festive, Christmassy cover. The first line kicked my reading blahs to the curb and I settled in for a page-turner that did not disappoint. The characters are so believable and each distinct and unique. I sometimes felt Elias behaved like a spoiled child, but he usually realized it eventually and apologized, and I loved all the other characters. Aunt Charlotte, I think, was my favorite. I wish I had an auntie like her.

I’m a Minnesota native with relatives in the smallest of small towns. Ms. Vetsch really nailed the challenges, trials, and benefits of life in a MN farming community. I’m also of Norwegian descent on my mother’s side, but was adopted into a non-Norwegian family, so didn’t grow up with the traditions or history. The rich, historical details the author deftly wove into this novel have awakened an interest in my Norwegian heritage which I’ve never had before.

I highly recommend this lovely book!
1,533 reviews2 followers
October 27, 2019
Back in 1887 Southern belle Savannah Cox was looking for something new that would take her away from her shame in Raleigh. She found an ad for a teaching position in Snowflake, Minnesota and accepts. Snowflake is nowhere near what she is used to. She's used to teas, parties, ball rooms etc., here most of the people speak hardly any English, eat all together different foods, and have none of the conveniences that she's been used to. She is determined to show the doubters and herself that she can adjust to her circumstances a be a good teacher to the children. The sheriff, Elias Parker has voiced his doubts and distrusts, but finds himself attracted to the new teacher. The real test is to come in the form of a brutal blizzard. Could this storm finally drive her away. If it did, she would take his heart with her.
Profile Image for Jasmine.
1,297 reviews43 followers
September 24, 2020
Very rarely, more like almost never, do I ever read several books by the same author in a row. But, for some reason unknown to even myself, I did read these three Love Inspired Historicals from Erica Vetsch back to back. As soon as I finished one I just went ahead and started the next.

His Prairie Sweetheart was the first one that I read and I liked it. Sometimes Elias's stubborn belief in the worst drove me crazy but coming from a cold northern state myself and having visited the south I can see why Savannah had a bit of a culture shock. The book was a fun prairie romance with a strong faith thread and a real belief in the value of family. Oh, and I just fell in love with Cap the dog!

(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
110 reviews13 followers
September 9, 2017
sweet easy read, Savannah Cox is outrunning heartache and this southern belle ends up in Minnesota where most of the settlers don't even speak english. Elias parker the town sheriff has had his own heart broken. he does not believe the pretty thin blooded teacher will last the winter. they both have to learn to trust and open up. for nyone who wants a good clean easy historic romance.
223 reviews2 followers
August 13, 2025
Great read

This book was absolutely delightful! I have never read this author's work before but I will definitely read more of it from now on. Such wonderful characters. I loved this book!
289 reviews4 followers
August 15, 2025
Sweet, Inspirational, Norwegian Romance

I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet inspirational romance and highly recommend it. Great characters and I found the info about the Norwegian culture fascinating.
6 reviews
November 15, 2025
The description in this book is so rich, a visual and sensory experience that draws the reader into the plot. I enjoyed learning about the Norwegian culture and their settlement in the United States.
76 reviews
December 26, 2025
 I enjoyed this sweet romance set in late 1880s Minnesota, in a mostly Norwegian settlement. The ending seemed a bit rushed and unrealistic, but overall it's an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Renee.
796 reviews
May 29, 2016
As much as I complain about hating winter and the cold weather, as soon as the temps hit the 80+ degree mark, I'm looking for any way to cool off. What better way to beat the heat than with a book about a blizzard! Harlequin had the right idea publishing this book in May for hotties like me to read. ;-)

His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch is one of the finest examples of romantic storytelling from the Love Inspired line. I've read more of these books in my youth than I can count and have continued to do as an adult reader on a budget. Trust me when I say I'm an experienced mass market paperback romance reader.

Savannah Cox's story is one I actually probably wouldn't label as romance actually but rather more of historical fiction. An inexperienced schoolteacher conquers the West -- discovering a new culture, meeting a handsome albeit stubborn stranger, and most importantly (I'm a dog lover, people) makes friends with a cute collie, Captain. She certainly meets with her fair share of roadblocks, including facing painful memories from her past and confronting the full force of Mother Nature's wrath on the prairie. As with most heroines, she perseveres and is rewarded for it in the end. Even though she's spoiled, she never comes across as childish or bratty thanks to Ms. Vetsch's knack for creating well rounded characters.

Elias Parker is more than a match for Miss Savannah and is also a pretty likeable character. Not once did I find myself annoyed with the H/h as I so often am with these historicals. All of my reading sessions involving this book were free of the dreaded eye roll!

His Prairie Sweetheart is a book that is sure to please fans of sweet Harlequin stories. While the romance doesn't take control of the story, the all important HEA is satisfying. If you're looking for a book to wile away the hot, summer days this May release from Love Inspired Historical should do the trick.

*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,182 reviews12 followers
July 26, 2016
Although I have thought at times it might be interesting to live in another part of our country, I never felt moving from the south to anywhere up north that has major blizzards would be that appealing. That is exactly what Savannah, the lead character in the story, does. After getting stood up at the altar, she sees an ad for a teacher in Snowflake, Minnesota, applies for the job, and gets it. She soon learns that life there is not a bed of roses either. Can she learn and adapt to the Norwegian immigrants’ ways and to all the other changes in order to fulfill her contract? Going from a mansion to a small cot in a tiny house built into the hillside is just the beginning of a huge learning curve for her. How is she going to make it living in a home with a family that does not understand English and teaching in a school where most of the children don’t either? She faces many trials including an encounter with a skunk. Even worse than getting sprayed by a skunk are the words that come tumbling from the mouth of the sheriff, Elias, every time she makes a poor decision. Just as she thinks he is starting to accept that she can do the job, something else goes wrong and he says something that makes her feel totally inadequate again. I enjoyed the action, humor, romance, and faith-building aspects of the book and recommend it to others. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Nancy.
44 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2017
This book was an absolute delight to read. I felt like I was with Savannah as she was going through so many feelings. From her broken heart to the unknown of a new place with an entirely different cultures, Savannah was a breath of fresh air to so many in the town of Snowflake. She made friends easily and since I'm of Norwegian heritage I throughly enjoyed hearing of lefse and even the dreaded lutefisk! Elias is a strong man who wants to protect his heart from yet another loss. He decides the best thing to do to not get close is to shove away as soon as possible. Going through Savannah and Elias story with them was such a pleasure. Was a great read! I received a copy of this book for free to review. My review and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Britney.
768 reviews12 followers
June 1, 2016
His Prairie Sweetheart is a delightful tale! Savannah Cox and Elias Parker are wonderful characters, and I loved the pairing of this Southern schoolteacher and Minnesota sheriff! Theirs is an engaging story filled with humor, adventure, and romance. Erica Vetsch’s love of history is evident, and I reveled in the real-life historical details and events she included in the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend His Prairie Sweetheart!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Shelly Dabbs.
267 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2016
I loved this story which brings a southern girl to Minnesota to teach school in a town of Norweigan immigrants. She is running from being jilted. Once in MN, she finds that she loves the people in this town & her students. After a blizzard, she thinks she should leave town as she could have put her students in danger. Once the sheriff finds out, her plans change. Her aunt arrives in town & she admits she loves the sheriff & he loves her. A happy ending......
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bethany Swafford.
Author 49 books90 followers
June 20, 2016
Fleeing from the humiliation of being a jilted bride, and her self-confidence shattered, Savannah takes on the difficult job of being a teacher in the Minnesota. She faces an entire culture, language, and climate she knows nothing about, and reluctantly falls in love.

This story was expertly detailed. I loved the glimpse into the Norwegian culture and the impact it had on Minnesota. I liked that Savannah and Elias were given time for their love to grow.

A sweet, fun read!
1,558 reviews12 followers
August 21, 2016
Sweet

Love historicals the heroine had been jilted at the alter every time she went into town people were constantly whispering about her, to get away from it all she decided to take a teaching job in Montana. Elias the hero thought that the heroine a city girl would not make it through the harsh winter and he let her know how he felt. Wonderful story of heartbreak, finding new love and a purpose.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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