Entertainment : Belle Plaine author pens inspiring sequel to historical family novel

Author Karen Hoelscher Johnson announces the nationwide release of her new novel, “Rose’s Promise.” Her latest book is the sequel to her first Christian novel, “Lancaster’s Rose,” which is a story about a young couple’s life on the prairie. It will be available in hardback on the last week of October.

“Rose’s Promise” tells the captivating tale of Rose and Jed, who are a couple very much in love. Together, they battle life on the homestead. Their ideal life is threatened as a severe drought affects their farm and the farms of those around them. The little town of Lancaster faces certain ruin as people and businesses pack up and look for a better way of life. Decisions have to be made quickly before the harsh winters settle in. Jed, who provides for the animals as well as his family, wonders how he will make it through without worrying Rose.

Eventually, Rose finds out that there is a promise in their future — one that will help to sustain them and to carry them through the good times and the bad. This continuing saga of “Lancaster’s Rose” takes place during a time of love, hope and promise. Relive a time nearly forgotten as one’s heart fills up in “Rose’s Promise.”                                                

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the books are available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.

Johnson, who was born in Iowa with her nine siblings, holds a master’s degree in elementary education. After teaching for 31 years, the retired author enjoys her spare time especially with her family. She and her husband have four daughters and four grandchildren.