Cynthia Roemer's Blog, page 20

Road Trip Treasures

As a historical author, it’s always fun to keep an eye out for hidden treasure. Of course, I’m talking about uncovering bits of history, not real treasure. LOL!

While on a recent road trip with my husband to the Smoky Mountains, we enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation and a bit of history as well. As we gazed at the misty mountaintops, Psalm 121 came to mind.

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

The majestic Smoky Mountains. What a glorious sight!
We never tired of staring out over the beautiful landscape.



We hiked along the Little River, following it for hours, listening to the roar and just enjoying the sights. Swift flowing rivers were everywhere throughout the Smoky Mountain region–some 24,000 miles of them according to the brochure!



As I raised my camera to take this picture, an eagle soared into view and landed in one of the pine trees. I had just mentioned earlier to my husband, all that was missing was an eagle flying overhead. How cool is that! It was as if the Lord were sending me a small gift!

But the historical writer in me couldn’t go without seeking out a few bits of history along the way. While meandering through Cade’s Cove, we stopped off at several historic cabins and churches.

Settler’s cabin at Cade’s Cove dating back to the early 1800’s



Outside one of the old churches, we visited the grave sites of some of the first settlers to inhabit the Smoky Mountains. Look at those dates!



At a visitor center we learned that in order to preserve the Smoky Mountains, many settlers had to be bought out. Their cabins were abandoned and never occupied again.



All good things must come to an end. While traveling home through Kentucky, we spied an Amish man plowing a field. Notice he’s standing atop the plow rather than walking behind it. Smart fellow!



We also caught a glimpse of the Jefferson Davis Memorial standing tall above the treetops. Though we didn’t take time to stop to view it, it was quite a sight to see even at a distance.

Shards of history are all around us if we take the time to look for them. From the beauty of God’s creation to the treasures of the past, I hope you’ve enjoyed this detour from my regular posts to share what I’ve been up to when I’m not writing. If you’d like to hear more about my writing journey, I invite you to sign up to recent my monthly Author Newsletter.

What fascinating bits of history have you discovered while on a road trip? I’d love to hear about them.

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.
UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

Where We Belong ~ My Review

Where We Belong tells the tale of Rebecca and Flora Hawes, two middle-aged sisters with a heart for the Lord and a fetish for adventure. Though the main setting is in 1890, throughout the story, readers are transported back to various points in the sisters lives from childhood to maturity.

The book opens with Rebecca and Flora traveling through the Sinai Desert in search of rare Biblical documents. We then read snippets from their past explaining how how they arrived at that point and how their life stories unfolded.

The novel is quite long (nearly 500 pages) and is divided into five sections, each with a different character’s point of view. Though it held my interest throughout, I admit it seemed to go on too long, and I found myself skimming some in the final segments from the viewpoints of more minor characters.

Its greatest attribute came in its poignant spiritual messages. I was impressed by the Biblical references woven into the story and the author’s attention to keeping the Gospel message central to the plot. I loved the strong faith element and also the historical aspects of this novel.

This was my first novel by Lynn Austin. The story was well-written and unique in nature. I’ve been told it is quite different from her other works and would like the opportunity to read more of her novels. If you enjoy Biblical history, mature characters, and a story-line that unfolds gradually throughout the course of time, you’ll enjoy Where We Belong.

 

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

Sunshine Blogger Award

What an honor to have Sowing Seeds of Hope Blog nominated for the Sunshine Blogger Award by my good friend Savanna Kaiser! What a touching way to support fellow bloggers! Truly a blessing! Thanks to each of you who take the time to read and support this blog! God bless you all!

The Sunshine Blogger Award is a peer recognition for bloggers across all genres who inspire “positivity and joy.” While there is no formal evaluation or vetting process, and no tangible prize, it is a sweet gift to receive from fellow bloggers who view my blog as “inspiring positivity and joy.”

SUNSHINE BLOGGER AWARD RULES

Thank the blogger who nominated you in the blog post and link back to their blog.
Answer the 11 questions the blogger asked you.
Nominate 11 new blogs to receive the award and write them 11 new questions.
List the rules and display the Sunshine Blogger Award logo in your post and/or on your blog.

 

ANSWERS TO MY 11 QUESTIONS FROM SAVANNA

What (or who) inspired you to start blogging?

I started blogging as a way of connecting with readers and fellow writers as I began my writing journey. How has blogging changed your life overall?

I’ve been blessed by the interaction with readers, and pray I honor the Lord in every post.What has been your favorite read of 2019 so far?

Hidden Among the Stars by Melanie Dobson

What is one of your favorite songs?

Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness   Contemporary: Thy Will be Done

If you could take a vacation anywhere, what destination would you choose?

Hmm. I would say the Pacific Northwest (Washington State and Oregon) I fell in love with it thirty years ago. Would love to return.

When you aren’t reading or blogging, what are you most likely to be doing?

Hiking, biking, gardening, spending time with family

What would you say is the easiest part about being a writer and what is the hardest part?

I don’t know about the easiest, but the most fun is developing and getting to know my characters as well as plotting the story-line. The hardest is finding time to write regularly and as much as I would like!

 Who inspired your love of reading?

I don’t know that anyone inspired it. I just enjoy it the same as I do writing! It’s a God-given love I suppose.  =)

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

To forgive others as I’ve been forgiven.

What was your favorite book as a child?

As a young child it was the Little Engine that Could. As a teenager, the first fiction novel that stuck with me was entitled, Becky’s Pony. Maybe that’s why I named the heroine in my first novel Becky.

Of all the blog posts you’ve written, which is your favorite? Please post the link.

Hmm. I had to think about that one. I think my favorite post would likely be Surrendering Your Life’s Dream to God because it encompasses giving our lives over to God, yielding to His wishes and trusting Him. That’s what life is all about – learning to entrust our goals, ambitions, and well-being to Him. http://cynthiaroemer.com/surrendering-your-lifes-dreams-to-god/

 

I NOMINATE THESE ELEVEN AUTHORS/BLOGS

TARA JOHNSON

JOY OF READING (Trisha Robertson)

CANDACE WEST POSEY 

HANNAH CONWAY

MICHELLE DE BRUIN

CRYSTAL CAUDILL

KATE BRESLIN

SARAH FOUST

KRISTI MORGAN

CATHY CERMELE

TISHA MARTIN

 

MY ELEVEN QUESTIONS

What motivates you to write?

What is your favorite part of blogging?

Name an author who holds a special place in your heart.

Do you listen to music while you write?

What is your most productive time of day?

If you could travel to any time period, when would it be?

What brings you the greatest encouragement?

Where is your favorite writing spot?

Do you have a book that you can read repeatedly and not grow tired of it?

How many novels do you typically read in a month?

What is your favorite classic novel?

 

 

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

 

Interview + Giveaway with Misty M. Beller

I’m thrilled to have my friend and fellow historical romance writer Misty M. Beller as guest today. We roomed together at the 2014 ACFW and have remained friends ever since. Enjoy the interview and then be sure to enter to win your choice of either a print copy (US addressed only) or an e-copy of her new release, This Daring Journey.

Hi Misty! Thanks for joining us today! Please share with us your favorite part of the writing process.

Hmm…I think it’s those last few chapters of each book, where the writing tends to flow freely and I’m completely immersed in the story. I thoroughly understand my characters (for the most part) and they seem to take over the book!

Yes! I know what you mean! You have several books set in the wilderness. What draws you to the untamed mountain setting?

I’ve always loved the peacefulness of country life, far away from the sights and sounds of civilization. I love the idea of having to make do with what’s around you, as well. Learning to survive and thrive on the gifts God gave us in nature. And the mountains… (sigh) Their amazing grandeur calls me in a way it’s hard to describe. That’s my happy place.

Finding Strength

My husband and I took to the bike trails recently. We coasted along, drinking in the beauty of the trees and undergrowth lining the trail. The first couple of miles were smooth sailing, with the wind at our backs and nothing but nature and each other’s company to enjoy.

Then came the hills. Each downhill slant met with a challenging uphill grind. An occasional break helped rejuvenate me and eased the tightness in my calves. But the farther we traveled, the more rubbery my legs became.

Then came the trip back. It was then I discovered just how lacking in physical ability I was as the twenty mph tailwind that had propelled us forward became a headwind that turned on us like a summer storm. I grew to dread each downhill sign, knowing an uphill one was soon to follow. At times, I wondered if I had the strength to make it, but little by little, I trudged along…while my patient husband encouraged me and waited for me to catch up!

What a picture of life. When life is good, we coast along thinking we’ve got things under control. We fool ourselves into thinking we can do this…all on our own. But then come the challenges, those grueling uphill hardships–health problems, financial worries, relational problems–and we wonder how we’re going to make it.

But our Savior is ever there, waiting patiently for us to call out to Him for help, reassurance and guidance. Our hope, our very existence, is in Him. Without Him we flounder and fail. But even then, He’s there, ready to pick us up and set us back on our feet. In the tough times, it’s His strength that will carry us through. All we need do is call out to Him.

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12)

What challenge do you need to entrust to the Savior today? What gives you courage to go on?

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

20 Ways to Be a Blessing

I enjoy watching the variety of birds that feed at my feeders. At times, I’ve counted nearly fifty Goldfinches clamoring for a spot or scavenging for seeds that have fallen to the ground. I’m amazed how, in a few short weeks, their bright, yellow feathers of summer are replaced by the dull, brown plumage of winter. This God-given camouflage provides them added protection to survive.

God’s care and provision are manifested in all of creation. Yet in His sermon on the mount, Jesus assured us that God loves us much more than birds.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26)

What a wonderful reminder of God’s love and provision! It made me wonder what practical ways I could express gratitude to God for all He’s done.

Matthew 25:40 says, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

In other words, whatever I do for others blesses God.

So I started brainstorming ideas. Soon I’d compiled a list of ways to express gratitude to God by touching the lives of others.

Here’s my top 20!

1) Spend some quality one-on-one time with your spouse.

2) Hug your children.

3) Send a Thinking of You card to someone on your heart.

4) Share a meal with someone who can’t or isn’t able to return the favor.

5) Pray with someone who’s hurting.

6) Offer to take a shut-in on an outing.

7) Give to a worthy charity.

8) Be someone’s hands or feet.

9) Send a care package to a missionary or military person.

10) Invite someone who has no place to go to your Thanksgiving gathering.

11) Volunteer.

12) Smile at a stranger.

13) Lend a helping hand to someone who’s struggling.

14) Visit someone in a nursing home or assisted living.

15) Be a listening ear to someone.

16) Reach out to someone who’s lost a loved one.

17) Share the gift of laughter.

18) Help someone in need.

19) Show forgiveness toward someone who has hurt you.

20) Tell someone thank you!

How about you? Do you have an idea to add to my list? I’d love to hear it!

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

Finding Your Niche

Several years ago, my family moved our membership to a small, rural church with less than fifty active members. We love the family atmosphere of the small congregation. A month or so after we started attending, a plea was made for someone to make a new church directory. I had been praying for a way to get involved and get to know the other members–some of whom I had yet to learn their names. I enjoy taking pictures and organizing. It sounded like a good fit.

After the service, I timidly approached the elder who’d made the plea and told him that if no one else stepped forward I would give it a shot. He seemed pleased, and told me right then and there the job was mine. (Apparently volunteers were a rarity for such tasks LOL!).

The following week, a lady who had missed the previous Sunday service, noticed it still in the bulletin. I heard her say rather tiresomely, “I guess I’ll get that job.” When another lady told her I had volunteered, she seemed ecstatic, and I could hear the surprise and relief in her voice as she thanked me.

We all have a unique place in God’s kingdom. When we step out in faith to do what He places on our hearts to do, not only are we ourselves blessed, but others are blessed as well.

Have you found your niche in ministry? Do you know where your talents lie? If not, here’s some thoughts to get you started.

Pray for God’s leading

Perhaps you don’t have a driving force that pulls you to a certain area of ministry. Maybe you’re a behind-the-scenes type of person. You have the gift of service, generosity, encouragement, or intercessory prayer. Pray for guidance on how God can use you. He’s sure to honor your request.

Look for opportunities in your areas of interest

To find something, you generally have to search for it. Keep attune to opportunities and ways to get involved in your church, your community, and your neighborhood. You know yourself better than anyone. When something piques your interest, pursue it, and ask the Lord to bless whatever He leads you to do.

Do what you love and love what you do.

Writing is my ministry. I’ve known for many years that’s where my heart lies–in encouraging others through the words the Lord places on my heart to share. But that doesn’t mean God can’t use me in other ways. There are many facets of life, other areas of interest and abilities. God can use us in whatever way we’re willing to be used.

What’s burning on your heart to do for the Lord? When you discover your niche, all the Lord asks is that you use it…and always, always give Him the glory.

 

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

Interview + Giveaway with Kate Breslin

I’m thrilled to have friend and fellow author Kate Breslin as my guest today. I was introduced to Kate via her novel, Not by Sight, which remains one of my favorite historical romance novels. I also had the priviledge of meeting her at the 2016 ACFW Conference in Nashville.

Her fourth novel, Far Side of the Sea, has just released, and she has graciously offered to GIVE AWAY a PRINT Copy! So be sure to stick around to enter!  Welcome, Kate!

Cynthia, I really appreciate being a guest on your blog today, thank you!

It’s great to have you, Kate. You’ve chosen to focus your novels during World War I and II. What intrigues you about this time period/setting?

 

Good question! I was never a war-history buff, but fell into the time period/setting years ago when I wrote my debut novel, For Such A Time. Then while looking for the next story idea and being a huge fan of Masterpiece Theater’s Downton Abbey series, I watched a poignant scene from the first world war and was inspired to write my second novel, Not By Sight. After that I found the early 1900s and WWI so fascinating that I couldn’t leave it alone. I find I am also much inspired reading about the way people cope with the adversities of war; ordinary people who rise up in a crisis to do the extraordinary. This era has stayed with me into my third and fourth novels and I have plans for more.

I agree. Individuals of that era are so inspiring. Tell us one of the first books or authors to inspire you and why.

Actually, years ago I read two novels by author Linda Nichols, who wrote for Bethany House at the time. I loved Linda’s stories and characters, and her faith message came through naturally, without feeling preachy or added in. I was finally won over to writing inspirational fiction however, after a weekend of binge reading Francine River’s Mark of the Lion trilogy. That series still has a place of honor on my bookshelf!

I’ve heard great things about Francine River’s writing. Her books are on my TBR list. What would you consider your favorite part of the writing process?

Well, I have more than one. I love doing the research and losing myself in history as I plot a new story; and being in the zone writing scenes, while that little camera is rolling in my head. God moments, when He gives me a great story idea or helps me to unknot my plot when I’m stuck and to keep going.

Yes! All wonderful parts of writing. How have you sensed the Lord’s hand on your writing journey?

In so many ways, Cynthia! I was writing for the general romance market years ago and got close to publishing a few times, but never actually sold a manuscript. When I finally listened to the Holy Spirit and began writing inspirational fiction, my faith grew exponentially and all doors began to open. God continues to partner with me in each of my novels and I feel so blessed that He led me on the path that was just right for me.

Ah! There’s nothing like being in the Lord’s will. His timing and ways are perfect. Do you have a favorite character in your novel(s)? If so, why?

Oh, that is not an easy choice. I think I love all of my characters, especially while I’m writing a particular story. I will say that I hold a special affection for Lieutenant Colin Mabry in my upcoming March release, Far Side of the Sea. This might sound strange coming from the author, but there is a genuineness about his character that immediately drew me to him as I wrote the story. To me, he is a hero in every respect. I hope my readers will love him just as much!

He sounds like my kind of hero!! What can we expect to see from you in the future?

Thanks for asking, Cynthia! Right now, I’d like to write two more WWI-era stories: the first, featuring Alex Baird, Scots pilot friend to Simon Forrester from High As The Heavens and after that, I hope to take Captain Marcus Weatherford on his own romantic adventure in my sixth novel. It’s early yet, but we’ll see what happens!

Sounds wonderful, Kate! Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia, thank you so much for allowing me to share time with your readers. I wish you all Easter blessings and a happy spring!

Former bookseller-turned-author Kate Breslin enjoys life in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and family. When she’s not writing inspirational fiction, Kate enjoys reading or taking long walks in Washington’s beautiful woodlands. She also likes traveling to new places, both within the U.S. and abroad, having toured Greece, Rome, and much of Western Europe. New destinations make for fresh story ideas. Connect with Kate on:

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Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

Now for the GIVEAWAY of a PRINT COPY of Kate’s new release: FAR SIDE OF THE SEA! (US Addresses only)

In spring of 1918, Lieutenant Colin Mabry, a British soldier working with MI8 after suffering injuries at the front, receives an unexpected message–an urgent summons from Jewel Reyer, the woman he once loved and believed to be dead.

Colin is stunned when he arrives in Paris to discover the message came not from Jewel, but from a stranger who claims to be her half sister, Johanna. With spies everywhere, Colin is at first skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust begins to grow between them. When their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot, however, that trust is at stake, as danger and deception turn their search for answers into a battle for their lives.

Enter the Rafflecopter Contest below:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Looking At the Positives

Have you ever noticed we humans have a tendency toward the negative? Give us a white wall with a small mark on it, and our eyes will naturally train toward the speck. We notice fuzzies in the carpet, dust on the furniture, and a ding in the car door.

But we don’t stop there. We’re hard on ourselves as well. It’s the one curl that tends to “boing” out of place that drives us batty. Or the extra pounds we gain around holidays that pull our attention.

Movie/book reviewers and critique groups often concentrate on finding flaws and areas in need of improvement. Not that that’s bad. It’s how we grow as people, or determine if a movie/book is worth the money we spend. Yet, it seems we’re always scrutinizing something or someone.

In the same way, God once noticed the dark spots on our souls. With each sin, the mark grew deeper and more prevalent. Yet, instead of condemning us in our weaknesses, He hatched an eternal plan to forever rid us of the darkness of sin. A plan of redemption.

Since the dawn of time, the Lord knew we would need a Savior. When Christ came to sacrifice Himself for us, He took all the blackness of sin upon Himself. Every misdeed, every act of hatred and strife that would ever be, attached itself to Him on the cross.

His death marked the defeat of sin in our lives. His resurrection forever erased the dark spot on our souls, washing us white as snow.

Now, because of Christ, we can stand clean and pure before the Father. When He looks at us, He no longer sees dark spots on our souls. Instead, He sees the whiteness of grace and forgiveness. What a beautiful picture of salvation for those who believe!

What is something positive that has happened to you this week?

 

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

~ She thought she’d lost everything ~ Instead she found what she needed most

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~ Beyond shattered dreams lies a realm of possibilities ~

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

 

The Best Valentine of All

Valentine’s Day is here, and love is in the air. Who doesn’t love a good love story, right? Well…let’s just say, I can think of a couple! As the only female in our household, I take a lot of guff when it comes to watching romantic or inspirational movies. What I call touching and moving, my sons call sappy! While I’m gearing up for a good cry, they’re snickering and staring, wondering why I’m puddling up.

Let’s face it, most guys just don’t get how we women can be so caught up in the emotions of a scene. “It’s just a movie, Mom. It’s not real,” my oldest son reminds me time and again when something tugs at my heart. Yet a good flick can pool me up quicker than slicing an onion … even if I’ve seen it dozens of times!

What is it about movies that touches our souls and moves us to tears? It’s the power of love. Whether it’s the love between a boy and his dog, a mother and her child, or two star-crossed sweethearts who’ve been torn apart, a good story can reach into the depths of our beings and draw us into the characters’ lives.

Yet, nothing touches a heart like the amazing love of Christ. No greater love story has ever been written than that of Jesus coming to earth and giving His all for us. God sent us the greatest Valentine anyone could ever give–-redemption through His Son.

A magnet on our refrigerator bears a message hidden within the lines of John 3:16 — the most memorable Valentine ever — a Valentine from God.

As you celebrate Valentine’s Day with the one you love, may you feel the joy of God’s most precious gift…His unconditional love and gift of salvation through Christ.

What makes Valentine’s Day special for you? Have you ever thought of Jesus as your Valentine?

 

Read how God works in the lives of Cynthia Roemer’s characters in her Inspirational, Historical Romance (Prairie Sky) Series.

UNDER THIS SAME SKY ~ BOOK ONE

~ She thought she’d lost everything ~ Instead she found what she needed most

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES ~ BOOK TWO

~ Beyond shattered dreams lies a realm of possibilities ~

**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.