A feel-good story about two stubborn yet courageous sisters in a small town in Minnesota who become estranged when they pursue different goals in life. Edith marries and raises a family while Helen, the younger of the two goes off to college to explore her love of making beer. The book spans many years and both characters experience hardship and good favor along the way. Filled with endearing characters and an engaging writing style, this story is a bittersweet tale about family, forgiveness and perseverance.

The Lager Queen of Minnesota is a multi generational story filled with strong women, and the love of creating beer. Two sisters part ways after their father leaves the farm to Helen so she can fulfill her dream of creating new beers. Edith and her husband are happy but struggle monetarily their whole life. While Helen does well, Edith must work all her life to eat, while raising her granddaughter Diana. At 19 Diana becomes a successful brewer, and her grandmother and friends become involved in the business as well.
The storyline is great, with strong characters you love, and I was sorry the book had to end. The writing is reminiscent and just as good as that of author Lorna Landvik

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book.

There was a bit more about the logistics and chemistry of beer brewing but I did enjoy this book very much. I've been waiting for years for another book from Stradal and this didn't disappoint. I wasn't always clear on character motivation and would have liked to see a bit more character development but overall this was a good read about strong females.

What a great story! I loved it! Even though this is a novel, this book could so easily be someone's (family) story. You'll find it difficult not to root for the underdogs in this story and will likely close the book with a big smile on your face.