How Cindy Kay Stewart Moves From Research to Writing

Multi-published author Cindy Kay Stewart recently stopped by my newsletter to share some about her writing life. Plus, she’s giving away signed print copy of her historical romantic suspense Unending Hope exclusively for my newsletter readers. See below for details.

Why did you start writing romantic suspense novels?
I write historical romances, but I love action/suspense stories, and WWII is full of both.

Where do you get the inspiration for your plots?
From my research. I find many true stories from reading memoires, autobiographies, and biographies.

What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)?
I wanted to be a teacher who would have lots of opportunities to tell stories. Yes, I taught in K-12 for 32 years and retired to write full time.

What’s your go-to when you need a pick-me-up to keep writing?
I turn to research to find new stories which inspire me. I also read suspense novels to refill my well of excitement.

Why do you like writing romantic suspense?
I love writing stories that are exciting and filled with action.

How do you pick the location/setting of your romantic suspense novels?
I have a strong background as a history teacher and avid reader of historical fiction. As I research deeper into WWII, I learn about new heroes and heroines from the era.

How do you ensure your books are accurate?
I learned how to conduct primary research while earning my masters degree in Secondary Education/History. I research, research again, look for primary sources whenever possible, and consult reliable secondary resources.

What has been most rewarding about writing romantic suspense?
I’m inspired when my readers tell me they couldn’t put my book down and they were encouraged by the characters’ responses to their difficult circumstances.

About Cindy
Cindy Kay Stewart, a retired high school teacher, 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 husband of forty-four years.

Connect w/Cindy
Website: https://cindykaystewart.com/

Unending Hope
April 1940. Nazi Germany carries out a devastating invasion, trapping Americans David Jensen and Natalie Thompson in Norway. Determined to use their medical skills to aid the Norwegians, David and Natalie embark on a harrowing journey to treat the injured and evade the Nazis.

Natalie, a dedicated Red Cross worker, values deep relationships. Fearful of settling for a shallow marriage, she broke off her engagement to David several years before. But she never stopped loving him and spending time working together in Norway plays havoc with her heart.

David, a personable Red Cross doctor, desires to advance his career and rekindle his relationship with Natalie. Even though she once rejected him, he believes she is the only woman for him. But years of keeping others at arms’ length guarantees that winning Natalie back will be the biggest challenge he’s ever faced.