Picture a storyteller who weaves faith, courage, and love into the heart of World War II—meet Cindy Kay Stewart! A retired high school teacher turned award-winning Christian historical fiction author, Stewart captivates readers with her tales of hope and resilience. Her debut novel, Abounding Hope, has charmed fans with its vivid storytelling and spiritual depth, proving she’s a voice to watch in the genre.
With a knack for uncovering history’s hidden gems, Stewart’s stories don’t just entertain—they inspire. From her North Georgia home, where she lives with her husband of over four decades, she crafts narratives that point readers to Jesus Christ, blending romance and faith against richly researched historical backdrops.
The Making of Cindy Kay Stewart
Born in Southern California, Cindy Kay Stewart’s journey to authorship was anything but ordinary. A graduate of Bob Jones University, where she humorously claims she earned her “Mrs.” degree, she married her college sweetheart and embarked on a 32-year career as a high school social studies teacher. Her passion for history and storytelling took root early, as she spun tales for her dolls and later her students. After retiring, Stewart finally pursued her dream of writing Christian novels, fueled by a desire to share God’s handiwork through fiction.
Her transition from classroom to keyboard wasn’t without hurdles. Stewart honed her craft through workshops, contests, and sheer determination, eventually winning prestigious awards like the Touched by Love Award and the Sandra Robbins Inspirational Writing Award. Her extroverted personality and love for connecting with others shine through in her engaging narratives and active involvement in her church as a pianist.
Cindy Kay Stewart’s Unforgettable Stories
Stewart’s debut, Abounding Hope (2023), kicks off her Circle of Hope series with a gripping tale set in 1939 Poland. The novel follows American teacher Irena Simmons, who risks everything to protect German boys from the Nazis, weaving a slow-burn romance with Jonathan Huntwell amid the chaos of war. Readers praise its historical accuracy, vivid imagery, and uplifting faith elements, earning it a 2024 Holt Medallion Finalist nod.
Her follow-up, Resilient Hearts, continues the series, diving deeper into WWII’s emotional and spiritual toll. Stewart’s style is marked by meticulous research, bringing lesser-known historical events to life with relatable characters and heartfelt prayers. Her stories blend romance, suspense, and scripture, appealing to fans of authors like Sarah Sundin. Each novel reflects her mission to craft “stories of hope, steeped in love, and anchored in faith,” making her work a beacon in Christian historical fiction.
Stewart also offers an e-book, Escape, a collection of 20 true WWII escape stories, showcasing her knack for uncovering gripping historical vignettes. Her manuscripts consistently shine in contests, finaling in the Maggie Award of Excellence and Cascade Awards, cementing her reputation as a rising star.
Why Cindy Kay Stewart Matters
Cindy Kay Stewart’s impact lies in her ability to make history resonate with modern readers. Her novels don’t just recount WWII events—they illuminate the courage and faith of ordinary people in extraordinary times. By focusing on underrepresented settings like Poland, she broadens the scope of Christian historical fiction, offering fresh perspectives. Her stories inspire readers to trust in God’s plan, reflecting her own life of surrender and joy in ministry.
As a debut author, Stewart has already garnered a loyal following, with reviewers calling her work “captivating” and “unforgettable.” Her commitment to pointing readers to Christ through fiction ensures her legacy as a storyteller who uplifts and encourages, one page at a time.
- Key Works: Abounding Hope, Resilient Hearts, Escape (e-book)
- Awards: Touched by Love Award, Sandra Robbins Inspirational Writing Award, 2024 Holt Medallion Finalist
- Hobbies: Church pianist, spending time with her four grandchildren
Snag Abounding Hope and dive into Cindy Kay Stewart’s inspiring world of faith-filled historical romance!