Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of faith, romance, and suspense with a legal twist—meet Cara C. Putman! A multi-talented author, attorney, and educator, Putman has penned over 40 novels, captivating readers with her heartfelt historical romances and gripping legal thrillers. From her Cornhusker Dreams series to her Hidden Justice novels, her stories blend rich historical detail, emotional depth, and Christian values, making her a beloved voice in inspirational fiction.
With a life as dynamic as her plots, Putman balances writing, teaching at Purdue University, practicing law, and raising four children. Her journey from a homeschooled kid in Nebraska to an award-winning author is a testament to her resilience and passion. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable woman!
The Making of Cara C. Putman
Born and raised in Nebraska, Cara C. Putman was a voracious reader, devouring Nancy Drew mysteries that sparked her lifelong love for storytelling. Homeschooled in an era when it was uncommon, she graduated high school at 16, college at 20, and earned her law degree from George Mason University by 27. Her writing journey began in 2005 after a chance meeting with author Colleen Coble at a bookstore, where, encouraged by her husband, she shared her dream of writing. That moment ignited a prolific career, blending her legal expertise with her knack for crafting compelling narratives.
Putman’s early career in public policy in Washington, D.C., honed her analytical skills, but her heart remained with storytelling. After moving to Indiana, she embraced her roles as a mother, attorney, and professor, all while publishing her first novel, Canteen Dreams, in 2007. Her ability to juggle these roles while staying true to her faith makes her an inspiring figure for aspiring writers.
Cara C. Putman’s Unforgettable Stories
Putman’s bibliography is a treasure trove of historical romance and legal suspense, often infused with Christian themes. Her Cornhusker Dreams series, starting with Canteen Dreams, follows characters like Audrey Stone, a Nebraska teacher aiding the WWII effort, weaving romance and patriotism. The sequel, Sandhill Dreams, explores nurse Lainie Gardner’s determination to serve despite health setbacks, showcasing Putman’s knack for resilient heroines.
In her Hidden Justice series, including titles like Beyond Justice and Imperfect Justice, Putman dives into legal thrillers, drawing on her expertise as an attorney. These novels feature strong female lawyers like Hayden McCarthy, tackling high-stakes cases with moral dilemmas. Her writing style is vivid and accessible, blending meticulous historical research or legal accuracy with emotional storytelling. Themes of faith, justice, and redemption resonate, making her books both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Putman also excels in novellas, such as White Christmas in the Where Treetops Glisten collection, where she captures WWII-era romance with warmth and authenticity. Her versatility across genres and her commitment to character-driven plots have earned her a loyal readership and awards like the Holt Award of Merit for Shadowed by Grace.
Why Cara C. Putman Matters
Cara C. Putman’s impact extends beyond her books. Her stories inspire readers to embrace faith and resilience, particularly in challenging times. By blending historical and legal contexts with relatable characters, she bridges genres, appealing to fans of romance, suspense, and Christian fiction. Her work as an educator at Purdue, where she teaches business law and ethics, further amplifies her influence, shaping future leaders with her values-driven approach.
As a second-generation homeschooling mom and active church member, Putman embodies the balance of career and family, encouraging others to pursue their dreams. Her leadership in the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) fosters a supportive community for writers, cementing her legacy as both a storyteller and a mentor.
- Birthplace: Nebraska, USA
- Key Works: Canteen Dreams, Imperfect Justice, Shadowed by Grace
- Awards: Holt Award of Merit for Shadowed by Grace
- Fun Fact: She started college at 16 and has an MBA from Purdue!
Snag Canteen Dreams or Imperfect Justice and dive into Cara C. Putman’s heartwarming, suspenseful world of faith and fiction!