I’m taking a break from my regularly scheduled book review of the week to bring you an Author interview with Cindy Kay Stewart this week! This is my first time interviewing Cindy and I am excited to get to know her a bit better I hope you are too! I was so glad I got picked to interview her on this tour since she writes WWII Historical romance which is the perfect choice for me since I’m obsessed with that genre!
A little about Cindy Kay Stewart
Cindy Kay Stewart, a retired high school social studies teacher, current church pianist and Christian historical romance author, writes stories of hope, steeped in love, and anchored in faith. Passionate about revealing God’s handiwork in history, Cindy loves to research until she uncovers hidden gems to share with her readers. She resides in North Georgia with her college sweetheart and husband of forty-two years. Her daughter, son-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren live nearby.
Connect with Cindy by visiting cindykaystewart.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.
Here is a wild road trip to get to know Cindy better!
Which of your Published or Unpublished books is your favorite, and why?
Abounding Hope is my first novel, so, of course, it’s my favorite at this time. 😊
How do you pick your character’s personalities or looks?
I picked my characters’ personalities based on what they would need to be able to do and how they would need to act given the events of the story.
What is your favorite genre to read? What is your favorite genre to write? And why are they your favorites?
Historical Romance is my favorite genre to read and write. I love to learn about actual historical events through authentic fiction, and I love stories where couples fall in love. Romance also cushions the hard events in life, which is certainly true during WWII.
What inspires you the most?
Researching true stories and uncovering amazing incidents from the past motivate me to retell those stories in the context of fiction.
Once an idea takes root, how long does it take you to write it down? Do you use outlines? Do you use strategic planning?
I often think about an idea for a long time before I write it down. I create scene lists as opposed to detailed outlines.
Do you have a favorite author? Or someone whom you would say has influenced your writing style?
Bodie Thoene, Sarah Sundin, and Susie May Warren have influenced my writing and storytelling the most.
What are your hobbies other than writing?
I play the piano, sing in the church choir, and read.
Do you have a genre that you would never write?
Science Fiction
What is one thing you would say has had the greatest impact on your writing?
I’ve learned so much from my editors over the years. They’ve not only shown me how to improve my work, but they’ve also pointed out the writing skills I needed to strengthen.
Lastly, what was your favorite book growing up?
The Little House on the Prairie Series (I can’t pick just one.)
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Abounding Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
Title: Abounding Hope
Series: Circle of Hope #1
Author: Cindy Kay Stewart
Publisher: Hope Springs Press LLC
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Genre: WWII Christian Historical Romance
Poland’s looming defeat forces an American teacher to escape with children wanted by the Nazis.
It’s late August, 1939, and the world is on the brink of war. The Nazis are threatening Poland, but American teacher Irena Simmons refuses to flee to safety. She’s dedicated her life to serving in her church and school, and she’s watching over the little German boys she whisked to safety the year before. When her former classmate, Jonathan, surprises her in Lvov and insists she leave with him before the war starts, Irena balks. Nothing will interfere with her work—especially a man making demands.
American shipping magnate Jonathan Huntwell had a crush on Irena in school. When their former classmates select him to travel to Poland and escort her out before it’s too late, he doesn’t expect the inner turmoil she ignites in him. Although honor-bound to aid any friend in trouble, Jonathan acknowledges that Irena is more than an obligation to him. However, he must keep his feelings hidden, or he’ll jeopardize their friendship.
Irena soon discovers that the Gestapo agent she successfully evaded in Germany has found her in Poland, and he’s after her young charges. When the Germans invade, Jonathan is in Denmark on business, too far away to help. As the rising danger threatens everything Irena holds dear, she must find a way to protect those she loves.
Based on true events and backed by extensive research, Abounding Hope is sure to delight fans of WWII adventure cloaked in sweet romance. Come to the place where the war began and discover hope in the darkest places.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon
Tour Giveaway!
(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card, a signed paperback copy of Abounding Hope, and an e-book copy of Escape (true stories of escape from WWII)!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 9, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 16, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
I enjoyed learning more about Cindy Stewart. She is a new-to-me author.
Sounds like a great book great cover deff gonna check it out!
I enjoyed the interview.
Great interview. This looks like a great novel. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.
enjoyed the interview! thanks for being on the tour 🙂