Cynthia Roemer's Blog, page 4

MEMORIAL DAY ORIGINS

At a recent Book Swap event, I discovered just how little I know about Memorial Day. During a game, we were asked several questions to test our knowledge of the holiday. I failed in most respects.

I knew Memorial Day was instigated as a day to honor those who had died in service to American’s freedom. What I didn’t know was the specifics behind it. A few of these lesser-known facts might surprise you, others just make sense if you think them through.

MEMORIAL DAY FORGOTTEN FACTS Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day.Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to honor the more than 600,000 lives lost during the American Civil War. After WW I it was meant to honor all fallen soldiers.Memorial Day didn’t become an official national holiday until 1968 (one hundred years after it was first observed).The holiday was observed on May 30 until 1970 when it was moved to the last Monday in May. (to ensure a 3-day weekend, no doubt)All Americans are encouraged to observe a moment of silence at 3 pm to honor the brave men and women who lost their lives.May was chosen for the holiday because that’s when many flowers are in bloom.

Did you know all that? I found these lesser-known tidbits of information so interesting and fun. I’m sure there are many other historical aspects to not only Memorial Day but other holidays as well which have been forgotten over time.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into one of our nation’s holidays. It’s more than a day off work or a time to gather with family or friends. So many people have lost their lives for the sake of freedom. If someone close to you or a family member from long ago was among those who lost their lives, we are indebted for their sacrifice. Feel free to share their story.

THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE

Let’s not forget the One who paid the ultimate price for us all—Jesus. His sacrifice on the cross paved our way to the Father and gave us the hope of eternal life. Praise God for His mercies and grace.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”

( John 3:16-17)

 

INSPIRING READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

The post MEMORIAL DAY ORIGINS appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

The God Who Sees

I’m thrilled to have my friend and critique partner, Kelly Goshorn with us today sharing about her story, The Veil, from the novella collection, Across the Shores. Plus she’s offering a print copy (US addresses only) of the novella, so be sure to enter the giveaway! 

The God Who Sees by Kelly Goshorn

I see you.

The idea of being seen runs deep these days. In a world that tells us our value rests in the designer labels we wear, having the most recent technology in our pocket, or the size of our bank account, people yearn to be seen, to be valued for who they really are…on the inside. We long to be known.

This is the theme of my latest release, The Veil, part of the Across the Shores novella collection. Tired of being valued for her outward beauty as well as her father’s purse, my heroine, Caroline Wilkins, dons a black, lace veil and vows not to remove it unless a man will marry her sight unseen.

A pretty tall order. But Caroline desperately wants someone to see her. Not her physical appearance or family connections but to value her for her compassion, intelligence, and determination.

Now I’m not going to tell you how things play out between Caroline and my hero, Franz, but I can give you hope that there is Someone who does see us just as we are. Not just our rights and wrongs, but who we are deep inside in the places most people don’t take the time to look.

El Roi – The God Who Sees

His name is El Roi, the God who sees me.

We learn this lesser known name of God in Genesis 16:13.When Hagar, the Egyptian servant of Abraham’s wife, Sarah, was mistreated by her mistress, Hagar ran away to the desert. Here she encountered an angel sent by God to encourage her. “Thereafter, Hagar used another name to refer to the LORD, who had spoken to her. She said, ‘You are the God who sees me.’” (NIV)

Hagar’s story teaches us that in our lowest moments, someone sees us. God sees our pain. He hears our cries. We never need doubt His presence. He rejoices in our victories, weeps when we are sorrowful, and carries us when we cannot take another step.

We are never alone because El Roi is the God who sees.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into inspiring stories of love, faith, and family set in America’s vibrant past. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys, binge-watching BBC period dramas, board-gaming with her family and friends, exploring historical sights, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Levi.

To stay in touch with Kelly, sign up for her newsletter at https://kellygoshorn.com/my-writing/newsletter
Her website: http://kellygoshorn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.j.goshorn/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18023325.Kelly_J_Goshorn
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kelly-goshorn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyjgoshorn/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KellyGoshorn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/KellyGoshorn/

 

MORE INSPIRING READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

GIVEAWAY!

Now’s your chance to enter to win a print copy of Across the Shores novella collection by entering the Rafflecopter Giveaway below. (US addresses only).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The post The God Who Sees appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

TRUSTING THE UNSEEN GOD

It’s amazing how the Lord speaks into our hearts through Scripture. I must have read Psalm 77 dozens of times over the years, yet never did it strike me so vividly as it did this week.

When God led the Israelites out of Egypt, they became trapped between the Red Sea and the pursuing Egyptians. Seeing the onslaught of charioteers at their backs, they must have feared they were goners. Yet, God, in His glory, parted the water like a curtain and made a dry path for them to cross. They couldn’t see Him, but He was there, guiding them safely through.

“Your path led through the sea,

your way through the mighty waters,

though your footprints were not seen.” 

(Psalm 77:19) NIV

We’ve all experienced times in our lives when God seems silent or distant. When we find ourselves at an impasse, or going through an extremely difficult challenge and don’t know what to do. We pray and pray, but don’t get clear direction or help. 

It’s then we wonder, Does God even care what I’m going through? Has He left me to fend for myself? Why won’t He answer?

Job once asked these questions, wondering why God seemed to abandon him when he needed Him most. In the end, God responded by declaring His wisdom and insight far outweigh our own. He sees the whole picture, not the one-dimensional view we have. Job saw only the pain he was undergoing; God knew the double portion of blessings that were soon to come his way.

Times of testing are sure to come. Our part is to pray and trust God will bring us through. When we submit our future, our ambitions, and everything we are to God, it allows Him to direct and redirect our purpose and ministry. As Christians, we need to strive to reach a point where we trust He is with us, working in our lives, no matter how far off He seems.

 

A clock in our home bares the poem, Footprints in the Sand, which speaks of how at some points in our lives, we can’t see God’s footprints alongside ours, when we feel alone and forgotten. But the poem goes on to say that it’s during these especially troubled times He carries us. What a beautiful picture of His great love for us! 

Are you facing some trial in your life where you can’t see God’s footprints? What gives you the strength to endure? I’d love to hear your story!

 

INSPIRATIONAL READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

 

 

The post TRUSTING THE UNSEEN GOD appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Comparison: The Thief of Joy

Someone once said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” There is so much truth in that statement. When we focus on others’ lives rather than our own, we generally come away feeling depleted, as if we don’t measure up, or prideful, as if we have the upper edge on another person. Neither extreme is productive or good.

FIGHTING COMPARISON

Comparison can happen in all areas of life–relationships, finances, the workplace, with family, even at church. Too often when we compare ourselves with others we feel we come up short. Social media is huge when it comes to comparison. We read the posts and think: Why can’t my life be that exciting? Why can’t my spouse treat me that special? Why can’t I earn that promotion or win that award?

It’s all too easy to view the picture perfect faces and read the grand things others are doing and feel we’re missing out. But what we don’t see is the behind-the-scenes imperfections and hardships hidden between the cracks.

No one’s life is perfect. Jesus said, “In this life you will have trouble.” (John 16:33) Everyone faces struggles. We just often choose to keep those to ourselves rather than bare them to the world.

Authors aren’t exempt from the challenge of comparison either. When we see the success of other authors, we may feel our meager sales or lack of awards make us ineffective as a writer. But the truth is, the Lord can use our work and our writing in whatever way He chooses. Whether we reach dozens or thousands, we must be faithful to write or do what He leads us to and leave the rest to Him.

PERSONAL STRUGGLE

One personal issue I’ve struggled with in my writing journey has been seeing how some spouses rally around and support their husband or wife in their writing, being their number one cheerleader and reading their every word.

Writing/reading is not my husband’s thing. He has read maybe three chapters from my first novel and none since. He’s helped carry in books and made an appearance at a few of my book signings, and that’s about it.

At times, his lack of interest has been a source of hurt for me, especially when “compared” with other authors whose spouses are with them every step of the way. But this past weekend, made me realize there are all types of support.

I longed to attend a writer’s conference, but back issues due to my cancer made driving long distances impossible. So, my farmer husband (in the midst of the onset of planting season), drove me the 100 miles to the conference, drove home, and repeated the trip the next evening to pick me up. 400 miles in two days! Just so I could attend a conference. That my friends, is a picture of love and support!

Sometimes support looks different than we imagined it. In his own special way, my husband lends me valuable support. He may not read my books or attend all my signings, but how blessed I am to know that he values what is important to me.

FINDING CONTENTMENT

So, how do we stop comparing ourselves with others?

Avoid Pitting Yourself Against Someone Else. The best way to combat the comparison bug is to avoid circumstances which put you in that mindset. Comparison leads to envy which Scripture says “rots the bones.” (Proverbs 14:30). So, if social media caused you to compare yourself with others, it’s probably best to give yourself a break or avoid it altogether.

Contentment is key. Paul said, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” ( Philippians 4:11) Whenever you’re tempted to compare your circumstances, life, or family with someone else’s, remember not to dwell on what you don’t have, but look for the blessings the Lord has placed before you and within you. He knows just what we need and made us who we are for a reason.

A Thankful Heart. When you feel yourself slipping into the comparison mode, find something you’re grateful for and offer up a prayer of praise. Nothing steers the heart toward a positive attitude better than gratitude.

**Do you struggle with comparison? What situation in your life are you struggling to be content with? 

FAITH-FILLED FICTION

 

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

 

The post Comparison: The Thief of Joy appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Guest Posts and Giveaways

I’m excited to at last have Beyond Wounded Hearts out into the hands of readers! It was a challenging project with loads of research and a complex storyline, but the Lord brought it all together in the end, I am so pleased by the generous response from my Launch Team members as well as early readers.

While there have been some wonderful reviews, the following is among the most touching to me. There can be no greater compliment from a reader than to know the Lord is shining through the words He allows me to write.

A TOUCHING REVIEW

As much as I loved the first in this series, I loved this 2nd one, even more! A lot more!

I understood the hurt, confusion, anger, pity, depression etc.
But God…
God had not forgotten, Addie, tho life still had evil lurking about,
God also, continued to pity her and bless her.

I knew it would end up in a love story….
just the way I like it!
It was a love story on so many levels.
Of course, the greatest level, is God’s love.

But the one sentence that brought me to tears…
Addie felt she was no longer beautiful, and was damaged goods.

But when the author wrote, Jesus had scars,
and they were beautiful! That just touched my heart so much!

I was thrilled with all the scripture verses and application of them.

I also loved the analogy of how eggs come in both white and brown colors and yet, they are the same, inside….beautiful!

I have one fault or criticism…where is book 3 of the series?!
sigh!

I so loved this novel, I hated for it to end.
It was beautiful.

Such a response brought me to tears. I pray others too, will be touched by the messages of God’s grace, redemption, and self-worth,

LEARN MORE

BLOG TOUR & GIVEAWAYS

I’ve visited several blogs sharing various insights into Luke and Adelaide’s story. I invite you to visit them and learn more about this latest Wounded Heart Series novel. The story begins at the Fall of Richmond and takes readers on an unexpected journey of the heart. There are also some GIVEAWAY opportunities along the way, so be sure to check those out.

PATTI’S PORCH – Topic: Hope and Healing for Wounded Hearts blog + Signed Print GIVEAWAY (ends March 24)

Lynn Watson Blog – Topic: What I Find Most Gratifying about Writing Historical Fiction

Fiction Finder Spotlight Interview – Topic: Fun Interview by Tiffany Amber Stockton regarding my latest novel and how other aspects of my life play out in my writing.

Reading is My Superpower Guest Blog + Giveaway – Topic: Opposites Attract ~ Civil War Style! Signed Print Copy Giveaway ends March 29

Candace West Blog (March 24)

Romancing History Blog Interview (April 6)

INSPIRING READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

 

The post Guest Posts and Giveaways appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Chapter One ~ Beyond Wounded Hearts

Beyond Wounded Hearts, Book Two in my Wounded Heart Series, releases March 14, 2023. Last week I shared the opening scene from the novel. If you missed it,

CLICK HERE

As promised, this week I’m sharing the rest of the chapter in which you’ll meet Corporal Luke Gallagher, a favorite with many of my Launch Team members. I hope you’ll enjoy this glimpse into Luke and Adelaide’s story.

 

BEYOND WOUNDED HEARTS CHAPTER ONE ~ SCENES 2 & 3

Richmond, April 3, 1865, 11:30 am

Corporal Luke Gallagher doused the small fire with his bucket of water. A plume of smoke billowed on the breeze as the flames flickered and died. He paused, wiping his sweat-drenched brow with his sleeve, and peered at the fiery remnants of the prized city. For months, years even, Richmond had eluded them. Now, it had fallen into their hands without resistance. And yet, its crippled remains stood as a reminder of the viciousness of war.

Sergeant Delmar stepped beside him, his bushy, wheat-blond hair nearly concealing his eyes. “Hard to believe, ain’t it?”

“Sure is. Never thought I’d see the day Richmond would fall.”

The sergeant folded his arms over his chest. “You surprise me, Gallagher. Aren’t you the one always telling me to have a little faith?”

A corner of Luke’s mouth lifted. “I never knew you listened.”

Chuckling, Delmar clapped him on the back. Several years Luke’s elder, the sergeant had taken him under his wing like a brother. “You make it a challenge not to.”

Though Luke grinned, his insides churned. He couldn’t afford to be quiet about his faith. Not after Jacob. Luke would bear the guilt of his friend until his dying day. Never again would he keep silent and allow someone he cared about to spend eternity apart from God.

Widening his stance, Sergeant Delmar puffed out his chest. “And to think, after all the fuss the Rebs gave holding us off all this time, they lit out of here without so much as a shot fired again’ us.”

Luke passed the empty bucket to the man next to him and propped his boot on a slab of stone. “They sure ravaged the place. Not much left to claim.”

Delmar wiggled his eyebrows. “Except victory.”

With a snicker, Luke nodded. “It’s only a matter of time now, don’t you think? The end of the war, I mean.”

“Oh, you bet. We’ve got ’em on the run now. Grant won’t let up until he finishes the job.”

Luke inhaled a long breath. What a blessing to finally have the end of war in sight. A chance encounter with his big brother, Drew, earlier in the day made it a double blessing, leaving him all the more eager to return home to his mother and sister.

Joining the army at sixteen had seemed the thing to do following his father’s untimely death in battle. But the year and a half away from home had done little to lessen the sting of loss. “I, for one, can’t wait to shed this uniform and don my work clothes. After this, the rigors of farming sound pret-ty good.”

“To you and me both, Gallagher.”

“Sergeant Delmar!”

The sergeant straightened and turned to face Lieutenant Fowler. “Yes, sir?”

The stout lieutenant barked out his order. “Assemble your men. We need to create a firewall in order to contain the blazes destroying Main Street.”

“Right away, sir.” As the lieutenant tromped away, Sergeant Delmar called to his men.

Passing off their water buckets, the squad of soldiers fell into formation. Luke strode at their rear, conscious of the sorrowful array of townspeople looking on.

Upon first glance, he’d cheered the ruined Capital City, knowing its occupancy by Union forces meant the war’s end was imminent. But now, as he gazed into the eyes of its defeated, half-starved citizens, something within him grieved. His brother was right. These were the innocent ones caught in a web of war they had no control over.

Sweat dripped from Luke’s temples as he marched into the thick of the fires. The blistering heat and stifling scent of smoke left him wishing they’d been allowed to remain part of the bucket brigade. But no matter how challenging the circumstances, nothing could shake him.

Now that going home was within reach.

###

April 3, 1865, 4:30 pm

“Have a heart, Corporal. The bucket brigade was child’s play compared to this.”

Luke brushed soiled hands together and peered at the disgruntled private. “Look at it this way, Cummings. Would you rather be fightin’ Rebs or cleanin’ up after ‘em?”

The burly private scratched his stubbled chin. “I reckon you’ve a point there.”

Luke smothered a grin as the private returned to work without further complaint. Long months traipsing after Johnny Rebs and sparring with them in the Petersburg trenches had them all ready to chuck this war and head home.

A soot-covered Private Fenton tossed aside a charred beam and let out a weary huff. “The Rebs sure left this place in a sorry state. It’ll take months t’ clean up this mess, not to mention track down Jeff Davis and his cronies.”

“One thing at a time, Fenton. For now, our job is getting these fires under control.” Luke pushed his kepi higher on his forehead and skimmed the string of gutted buildings along the cluttered street. Block upon block of what appeared to have been the town’s business district lay wasted. Many buildings still ablaze.

With the fall of Richmond, thousands of lives had been uprooted, their homes and livelihoods destroyed. By joining the fight, Luke had hoped to hasten the war’s end, as well as avenge his father’s death. In reality, all the violence and bloodshed only left him empty, depleted. He glanced at the charred remains of the once grand city. God forgive them for all the senseless killing and devastation.

“Hey, Corporal. Looka here.”

Luke shook off his ponderings and turned to see Private Fenton squatted beside something in the rubble. As he made his way over, others gathered around, concealing his view. Whatever it was, had gained the troop’s full attention. Shouldering his way through, he strained to see what had the soldiers so entranced.

The pair of tattered boots and frayed black material protruding from the spot where Private Fenton had been clearing debris brought Luke to a standstill. The tiny, leather boots were hardly bigger than ones his younger sister, Lydia, wore.

Private Fenton peered up at him like a startled deer. “It’s a … girl.”

Luke grimaced and reached for one of the charred timbers. “Don’t just stand there. Help free her. Gently, though.”

With slow, careful movements, they worked to uncover her. Dreading the almost certain outcome, Luke knelt beside the lifeless form lying face-down on the ground. One of her arms rested outstretched, much of her sleeve melted away, revealing extensive burns to her hand and arm. Her loose, singed hair lay strewn about her, tangled and matted in clumps.

With a hard swallow, he brushed aside her singed, black tresses and pressed a hand to her temple. Warmth surged through his fingertips, and he released the breath he’d been holding, thanking the Lord above. “She’s alive!”

Stunned murmurs circulated through the group of soldiers.

Luke moved his fingers to the artery in the girl’s neck and cringed.

Barely.

PRE-ORDER  BEYOND WOUNDED HEARTS

I hope you enjoyed this intro into the novel. Beyond Wounded Hearts (Wounded Heart Series ~ Book Two) is a tale of redemption and forgiveness amid the backdrop of the fall of Richmond. Rich in historical detail and events, the novel sweeps readers into the very fabric of the time. More than a year in the writing, Beyond Wounded Hearts holds a message of God’s far-reaching love for those who’ve strayed from their faith.

Beyond Wounded Hearts e-book is now available for PRE-ORDER! Claim your copy today! 

PRE-ORDER NOW

 

INSPIRING READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

 

The post Chapter One ~ Beyond Wounded Hearts appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Scene One ~ Beyond Wounded Hearts

In a couple short weeks, my fifth novel, Beyond Wounded Hearts (Wounded Heart Series Book Two) will release. That in itself is a gift from the Lord. With a Stage IV cancer diagnosis coming just as I finished the first draft, I didn’t know if I would see this day come. But the Lord has been gracious, and it is my prayer He will use this story to touch hearts and spread His truths.

My publisher has granted me permission to share the opening chapter of Luke and Adelaide’s story with you. (Scene One this week (Adelaide’s POV) ~ The remainder of the scenes next week (Luke’s POV)

Enjoy this glimpse into this Civil War era novel!

“Beyond Wounded Hearts (Wounded Heart Series ~ Book Two) is a tale of redemption and forgiveness amid the backdrop of the fall of Richmond. Rich in historical detail and events, the novel sweeps readers into the very fabric of the time. Beyond Wounded Hearts holds a message of God’s far-reaching love for those who’ve strayed from their faith.”

BEYOND WOUNDED HEARTS CHAPTER 1 ~ SCENE ONE Richmond, Virginia, Monday, April 3, 1865, 2 a.m.

An explosion pierced the night, shattering the windows of the upstairs apartment bedroom and jarring Adelaide Hanover from fitful slumber. She held back a scream, trembling as she pulled her bed sheet tighter to her chest. Shrill cries and the hasty rattle of wagon wheels echoed from the street below.

This was madness.

She squeezed her eyes closed to block out the amber glow filtering through the inside shutters. Oh, why had Aunt Polly been so stubborn? They should have fled Richmond the moment President Davis declared the Yankees would soon be upon them.

Numbness steeled over her. There was nothing left for her here now anyway.

A second blast sounded, closer this time, and her pulse quickened. With a groan, she buried her head beneath the cotton sheet. “Do you s’pose it’s the Yankees?”

When the comment garnered no reply, Addie peeled back the cover and placed a hand on the vacant spot where her aunt should have been. She sat up and glanced around the darkened room, heart racing. “Aunt Polly?”

Dryness tore at her throat as she breathed in the strong scent of smoke. Harried voices drifted from the street below, along with the crackle of fire. The entire city sounded in a din. Tossing her cover aside, she looped her legs over the side of the bed and sprang to her feet.

With careful steps, she ventured toward the shuttered window. Shards of broken glass peppered the floor, slicing her exposed feet in more than one place. As she opened the shutters, more glass sprayed down in a bone-rattling clatter. Ignoring the pain of the cuts, she peered into the fiery haze blanketing the night sky. It appeared the stiff south breeze had turned Richmond into a raging inferno.

Turning, she took another quick sweep of the apartment and rested her hands on her hips. Had Aunt Polly just up and left her with the whole city crashing down around them?

By morning, all Richmond would likely be in shambles.

And in the hands of thievin’ Yankees.

The blood drained from her cheeks. What would become of her if the Yankees overtook the city? Seventeen was a vulnerable age to fall prey to enemy soldiers. A shiver ran through her. She must find Aunt Polly.

Picking her way through the piles of shattered glass on tiptoe, Addie went to retrieve her black taffeta dress. She let out a huff. If she knew her aunt, she’d gone to look after her precious millenary shop—likely the reason she’d refused to leave in the first place. The thought pricked Addie. Did Aunt Polly care so little for her that she’d leave her to fend for herself at such a time? The least her aunt could have done was take her along.

Hurriedly donning her dress, Addie paced the room. With quivering hands, she struggled to fasten the string of buttons lining her front. No wonder Aunt Polly had never wed. All her attentions were thrown into her business. It seemed effort after foolishness now. Whether the store be overtaken by fire or Yanks, her aunt’s attempts to spare it would likely be for naught.

Another “boom” sent Addie scrambling for her boots. Though she hadn’t agreed with her aunt’s decision to stay, Aunt Polly was all the family she had left.

She jerked at her bootstrings. Thanks to the cursed Yankees.

Stomach knotted, she took another glance around the apartment, then scurried into the hall, down the stairs, and into the chaos of the street. Pillars of fiery smoke clouds billowed overhead, shielding the stars from view. Driven by the stout wind, hot embers seared her neck and face. Even in dead of night, it was obvious the city had become a mass of ruins.

She choked back a cough and maneuvered her way through the flurry of people—more blacks than whites. Some rejoiced, while others were in panic, racing—arms laden with belongings—from the incessant flames threatening to engulf the city. Addie pushed through the onslaught of people, her heart thumping in her ears. Part of her wished to turn and flee with them.

But she couldn’t.

Not without Aunt Polly. Somehow, she must convince her it was foolhardy to stay.

Addie’s breath caught as she rounded the corner leading to the business district. She stood with mouth agape, spellbound by the chaotic scene playing out before her. Looters bashed through doors and windows, darting in and out of stores, arms loaded with goods. Shouts and merriment intermingled along the congested street. The foul stench of liquor filled the night air, oozing from broken bottles littering the gutters.

Addie puckered her face in disgust. “How dare they?”

No sooner had she spoken the words than a selfish thought darkened her spirit. Better to have Richmond vandalized and destroyed than for the murderous Yankees to get their hands on its goods. She set her jaw. After what they’d done, she’d sooner see them blown to smithereens by cannon fire than have them seize a single shred of gain from the once grand city.

She glanced further down the street to her aunt’s shop and gasped. Flames spewed from the broken-out windows and holes in the roof. A nervous twinge shot through her. Surely Aunt Polly wasn’t inside.

Hiking her skirt, Addie sprinted toward the blazing structure, moisture stinging her eyes. She suppressed the urge to pray. God hadn’t answered her prayers in the past. Why should He now?

A wave of heat enveloped her as she neared the burning building. She shielded her face with her hand and panned the street, struggling to catch her breath. Desperate people rushed to and fro. No Aunt Polly.

The clang of fire engines echoed in the distance, and Addie’s hopes rose, but fell just as quickly. With so many fires to extinguish, the firefighters would never reach the millinery in time. With the frantic way people were dashing about, she’d be hard-pressed to find anyone willing to help. Determined, Addie balled her hands into fists. If Aunt Polly was in there, she must go in herself.

With a resolute huff, Addie ripped a section from her shift and dipped it in an ash-tainted water trough. Tying it over her nose and mouth, she held her breath and bolted through the burned-out doorway. Thick smoke obscured her vision, threatening to choke off her air. She squinted and took a shallow breath, eyes desperately searching the sweltering building. Greedy flames licked the walls and ceiling, transforming her aunt’s shop into a consuming beast.

She cried out, cowering against the oppressive heat. “Aunt Polly!”

Amid the roar of fire, a weak cough sounded to her left. Turning, she peered through the smoke-filled millinery and glimpsed the faint image of someone lying on the floor. Heart pounding, she rushed over and bent down beside her aunt. “Aunt Polly?”

Her eyes flickered open, and she uttered a slight moan. “Add-ie. You shouldn’t … have come.”

Ignoring the tempered scolding, Addie tugged at her aunt’s arm. “Can you stand?”

Aunt Polly shook her head. “My legs are … trapped.”

Through the haze, Addie eyed the smoldering beam stretched across her aunt’s legs, and her heart fell. Engulfed in flames at both ends, the timber looked too heavy to lift. Regardless, she edged toward it, the heat of the blaze singeing her forehead and brows. Pain surged through her fingers as she gripped the burning wood. Mustering her strength, she shoved the beam from her aunt’s legs.

Fire sprayed down on her from the ceiling, setting her sleeves ablaze. With a loud groan, she slapped frantically at the flames scorching her arms. She ground her teeth against the agonizing sting, finally laying atop them to smother the flames. Tears welled in her eyes as she slinked back to her aunt.

Aunt Polly tried to rise, but fell back, releasing a barrage of coughs. “It’s too late … for me. Save … yourself.”

“No! I’ll not leave you.” Ignoring the throbbing burns on her forearms and hands, Addie looped her arms under her aunt’s and pulled with all her might. Numerous attempts left her only inches from where she’d started.

Addie fell back with a grunt, struggling for air. Aunt Polly’s weight being twice Addie’s, she would never accomplish this alone. Leaning close to her aunt’s face, she hollered through the soaked rag, “I’ll find help.”

Aunt Polly raised a hand to Addie’s cheek. “I’m sorry.” Something in her eyes hinted of a deeper meaning, as if she’d made a costly mistake for both of them. She swallowed, fighting for breath. “Find … Clarissa. Don’t let him … have her.”

Addie shook her head. “I don’t understand. Who’s Clarissa?”

Her aunt’s eyes flickered and closed. With a final intake of breath, her head slumped to the side.

“Aunt Polly?” Addie choked back a sob, the flames beginning to close in around her. She stood and weaved her way through the fallen planks, the burning in her hands and arms as excruciating as the sting of another loss. Tears welled in her eyes as she rushed into the noise and bedlam of the street. Ripping the cloth from her face, she yelled, “Help! Someone please help!”

The throng of people scurried by, ignoring her pleas.

With effort, she caught a passerby by the sleeve. “Help me, please. My aunt’s trapped inside.”

The older gentleman tugged his arm from her grasp, sending a surge of pain through her fingers. “See to her yourself. I’ve troubles of my own.”
He marched past, and Addie let out a heart-wrenching groan. With a frustrated glance around, she let out an agonized cry. “Won’t anyone help me?”

A loud “crack” sounded above her, and she flinched. Sharp pain sliced through the top of her head, blurring her vision and driving her to her knees. Heaviness engulfed her, stealing her breath as the clamor of the street faded to dark silence.

Continued Next Week …

BEYOND WOUNDED HEARTS IS

NOW AVAILABLE FOR  PRE-ORDER

PRE-ORDER NOW

FAITH-FILLED FICTION

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

The post Scene One ~ Beyond Wounded Hearts appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Insights into Counterfeit Hope + Giveaway

I’m thrilled to have author friend, Crystal Caudill join us today sharing about her latest release, Counterfeit Hope! Stick around for a chance to win a copy of either of her inspiring novels.

“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Romans 8:24-25

Counterfeit Hope is very different from my first book, Counterfeit Love, in that the content is heavier and there is more suspense than mystery. However, one consistent thing is the strength of the spiritual thread. While there is a strong redemption arc for my heroine, there is a spiritual thread that I hope will encourage believers at all stages of their walk with Christ.

In Counterfeit Hope, both protagonists have criminal histories forced upon them and made by choice. But, just like in real life, bad things happened to them that they did not choose but led to a life of shame and poor choices in response. To escape their shame, they placed their hopes in things that wouldn’t heal them or their pasts—career success, running away, and a better “tomorrow” as viewed from an earthly perspective.

DISPLACED HOPE

And how often do we put our hopes in something physical or nebulous?

“If I get this promotion, I’ll finally have proved myself.”

“If I can just make it through this week, next week will be better.”

We can attempt to put our hope in these things, but at some point, they will fail us. Those false hopes will never be able to fill the hole in our hearts and help us to face the challenges that life brings. We will continue to struggle because we were always meant to have only One Hope. An everlasting one—Jesus Christ. Only through him can we find absolute forgiveness, redemption, and healing.

ETERNAL HOPE IN CHRIST

 

But that does not mean we will escape the consequences of our choices. Whether it be a lie, a relationship gone too far, a crime worthy of a judge and jury, or anything else, inescapable consequences generally follow. That doesn’t mean you’re not forgiven. Instead, it means that Christ has given you an eternal hope to hold on to—a person to lean into—as you walk through those consequences. And often, He will redeem those consequences for His glory and your good.

By putting our hope in Christ, we have something to look forward to that no earthly consequence can take away. A personal relationship with our God and Savior, and an eternity in a perfect heaven with Him.

Any other hope is just a counterfeit that will leave you dissatisfied and hurting. It is my prayer that you will know the one true hope, Jesus Christ. Want to know more? Visit crystalcaudill.com/hope/ or email me at crystal@crystalcaudill.com

Crystal Caudill is a tea-drinking, book-hoarding, history nerd. Her award-winning stories are ripe with history, danger, love, and hope. When not writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her husband and boys, caregiving for loved ones, hiding in a book, drinking copious amounts of hot tea, or connecting with readers. Connect with her at www.crystalcaudill.com.

 

MORE INSPIRATIONAL FICTION

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below for a chance to win a print copy of either Counterfeit Love or Counterfeit Hope.

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Insights into Counterfeit Hope + Giveaway appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

A VALENTINE GIVEAWAY

I’ve been off the grid here since before Christmas due to a writing deadline, but wanted to hop on a minute and wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re married, unattached, in the throws of young love, or missing a life-long companion, there is one Valentine of love we all can share in—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 VALENTINE FROM GOD   

A magnet on our refrigerator bears the most memorable Valentine message ever sent…

                             “ For God so lo V ed the world 

                                      that he g A ve his

                                                on L y son                      

                                  that whoso E ver 

                                   believeth i N him                      

                                   should no T  

                                             perIsh, but have                          

                                   everlasti N g 

                                             lif E .”           (John 3:16)

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.

 

VALENTINE’S DAY GIVEAWAY

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I have a special giveaway gift to offer. A daily devotional geared toward couples (though it can benefit any relationship. It’s called Quiet Times for Couples.

Each entry includes a thoughtful devotion, correlating Scripture, and a suggested prayer. I look forward to sharing this beautiful devotional with one of you!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below between now and Feb. 24 for a chance to win. (US addresses only.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

INSPIRATIONAL NOVELS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

The post A VALENTINE GIVEAWAY appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

One Solitary Life

Merry Christmas!

I came across the following poem years ago, and it really touched my heart. As you read it, consider how much God loves us to send Jesus to be born in such a humble way, to live and experience all that mankind experiences, and to suffer and die so that we might share eternity with Him!

Jesus’ coming changed everything and nothing expresses that better than the poem, One Solitary Life by Dr. James Allen. ONE SOLITARY LIFE He was born in an obscure villageThe child of a peasant womanHe grew up in another obscure villageWhere he worked in a carpenter shopUntil he was thirtyHe never wrote a bookHe never held an officeHe never went to collegeHe never visited a big cityHe never travelled more than two hundred milesFrom the place where he was bornHe did none of the thingsUsually associated with greatnessHe had no credentials but himselfHe was only thirty three His friends ran awayOne of them denied him He was turned over to his enemies And went through the mockery of a trialHe was nailed to a cross between two thievesWhile dying, his executioners gambled for his clothingThe only property he had on earthWhen he was dead He was laid in a borrowed graveThrough the pity of a friendNineteen centuries have come and goneAnd today Jesus is the central figure of the human raceAnd the leader of mankind’s progressAll the armies that have ever marchedAll the navies that have ever sailedAll the parliaments that have ever satAll the kings that ever reigned put togetherHave not affected the life of mankind on earthAs powerfully as that one solitary lifeDr James Allan © 1926.May your Christmas be filled with blessings and new encounters with the Savior!MORE CHRISTMAS POSTS: Christmas Expectations, Finding Hope and Peace INSPIRING READS

 

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads Bookbub and Twitter.

 

The post One Solitary Life appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.