Books In Sync

"Dreams can be turned into reality if one has the courage to try.

Failure comes only to those who don't."

Voted as Author of the Week for the week of 2.25.08 - 3.2.08

Bio:

Born and raised in Iowa, Cindy grew up the youngest of three children. An avid reader since early childhood, she often dreamed of becoming a writer. She always had a book in hand or nearby.

Cindy graduated from Assumption High School, married her husband Robert and her dream was left behind. When her mother became terminally ill, the couple moved to Missouri to help her dad with her care. When she passed, they decided to stay and make it their home.

Cindy gained employment with her local daily newspaper in page design layout and it was then that her dream to write resurfaced. She occasionally writes a story, meriting front page placement, contributes to the weekly recipe page and assists with proofing and editing copy prior to publication.

With encouragement from her husband and sister, she published the first novel in an Inspirational trilogy series, Chasing Memories, in 2006, with publication of the second, Shades of Blue, in 2007. Her sister, a former journalism teacher, volunteered as her editing consultant. After this series, Cindy has plans to write a mystery/suspense series.

Cindy was a guest on the Internet Radio Talk Show, "Aging Outside the BoxTM", with host, Shirley W. Mitchell. The show was an hour long and broadcasted in 124 countries to a listening audience of 15 million people. You can hear the show, which is now archived, by using the links provided on Cindy's events page.

She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and also a book reviewer for Bookpleasures.com, managed by Editor Norm Goldman, one of the top 800 reviewers for Amazon.

"I believe the Lord has chosen me to spread His word through my words and who am I to question His plans for me? I hope to inspire others and renew their faith."

Blessings!

Cindy Bauer

Chasing Memories - First in the Memory Box Trilogy

by Cindy Bauer

Steven and Laura Thompson have the ideal marriage and the birth of Annie only strengthens their bond. Life seems perfect until everything changes in an instant with one man’s careless decision, leaving Laura a widow. Laura struggles to move on with life but unimaginable tragedy strikes again. While shoveling her elderly neighbor’s snowy walk, a careening car slams into her on an icy street, resulting in no memory of either Steven or Annie! Laura grapples to make sense of the missing pieces of her past while living in the present with a daughter she can’t remember, a friend she must learn to trust and a future filled with uncertainties. A memory box, handcrafted by her elderly neighbor and given to her at Christmas, is filled with precious mementos in the hopes she will one day remember. As Laura fights for survival, her eventual surrender to a God of love brings hope, healing and wholeness to her shattered life.

ISBN: 978-1-4357-4288-8

Publisher: Lulu.com

Rights Owner: lulu.com

Copyright: © 2008 Cindy Bauer Standard Copyright License

Language: English

Country: United States

Edition: First Edition

(289 pages)

Paperback: $17.06

Download:  $5.00

Purchase Link:

http://stores.lulu.com/cindybauer

Reviews & Customer Testimonials For Chasing Memories

I am pleasantly surprised after reading Chasing Memories, by Cindy Bauer. Born in Iowa, Cindy now resides in Missouri with her husband. She thanks her husband, Robert, and sister, Debra for their continued support. Chasing Memories is her first title.

The book is supposedly the first in a trilogy and takes place in a small town called Hampton in Missouri . The book opens with a prologue and closes with an epilogue of Laura in her elder years. The storyline follows Laura Thompson, a thirty year old widow, through some very difficult times in her life. Just when Laura and her daughter, Annie were moving on after the death of Steven, another tragedy is thrown at them when a freak accident causes Laura to lose her memory. With the help of her friends, Susan and Mildred, Laura attempts to regain control of a life she doesn’t remember, and restore normalcy to her daughter.

That I am aware of, the second book in this trilogy, Shades of Blue, follows Laura’s friend, Susan shortly after Chasing Memories ends. I am unclear where the third books goes, but after reading the epilogue, I’m hoping it’s back to Laura and the budding relationship with Dr. MacKenzie, or following her daughter, Annie after she’s grown.

It is my understanding that the author is seeking a new publisher for this book and is working on a re-write, so the very few minor criticisms I have might be moot. I found a few errors in the editing process. Overall, there were few, and it did not distract me or discourage me from reading. The first few chapters seemed a bit methodical in a way that we were just obtaining day-to-day rituals and not necessarily knowing inner feelings or personality of the characters. This quickly dissolved around the fourth chapter.

Aside from that, I found this to be an enjoyable and bittersweet read. Cindy Bauer was able to extract characters on paper and into our hearts. One tragedy after another, there were no dead spots and, I am amazed at how emotional I was at times while reading. She was able to relay the despair of losing a husband, the uncertainties of parenthood, the necessity of friendship, the fear of amnesia, and the power of faith and prayer. I am very much looking forward to the other 2 books in this trilogy. Cindy Bauer is a true gem in the inspirational fiction genre, and I see nothing but great things for her writing career.

Bookpleasures.com

Kelly Moran - Author and Reviewer

CrosswayzBooks@atfish1.com

Review For Chasing Memories

Chasing Memories is a story about Laura Thompson, a woman whose husband has died. While shoveling snow for her elderly neighbor, Mrs. Parker, Laura gets hit by a car. Her leg is broken, but the worst part is that she suffered a concussion, and now can remember nothing. She can’t remember her name, her town, what day it is, anything! She even forgot that she had a husband and daughter! Slowly, with the help of her daughter’s baby-sitter, Susan, Laura begins to gain a few memories back. Then one day, Laura comes home with her daughter, Annie, only to find that part of her house is on fire! Annie runs inside, grabbing a memory box for her mother, and Laura runs in after her, pulling her out of the fire. Laura, Annie, and Susan all have to learn how to trust God, no matter the consequences, in this wonderful book by Cindy Bauer.

Ghostwriterreviews.com

FIVE STAR REVIEW FOR CHASING MEMORIES

by Cindy Bauer

Laura had an ideal life. She had a great husband and had been blessed with an adorable daughter, Annie. Life was good, until a drunk driver tragically ended Steven's life, leaving his wife and child alone. Laura was grief stricken, acting more on basic instinct, until her daughter’s comforting words brought her back to life.

They struggled to make ends meet, even with Laura's job at Hensen's department store, the money was tight, but Annie always had what she needed.

With her parent's living in Georgia, Laura had few people she felt close to. Susan was her best friend, taking care of Annie while Laura worked, and Laura was also quite fond of her elderly neighbors, the Parkers. When Mr. Parker had a stroke, Laura watched over his wife, but her good deed met with a terrible ending, when a sliding car knocked her off her feet. Miraculously, Laura had only broken her leg, but she'd also lost her memory, neither recognizing her friends, her family, or her child.

During Laura’s hospital stay, Susan stepped in and took care of Annie. It was a difficult situation, especially since her best friend couldn’t remember either her or Annie, and Susan needed a diversion to take Annie's mind from her mother's troubles, suggesting they start decorating for the Christmas season. Excitedly, Annie and Susan prepared the surprise for Laura's homecoming, and though Laura was impressed with their efforts, she felt out of place facing her previous life.

Weeks past, and though disturbing visions had come to her dreams, it seemed that Laura was no closer to remembering things than she'd been that first day, no matter how much she tried. She mostly faked her way through each day; until life became an acceptable routine, but it seemed that her troubles weren't yet over when her home caught on fire.

Chasing Memories is a heart-touching story, with a bittersweet conclusion.

This is a touching storyline. I read with anticipation, hoping for a happy finale, but I was left with the feeling of melancholy. Cindy Bauer writes well, creating believable story lines and likable characters. I enjoyed this read quite a bit, and I admired Laura’s strength, despite the hard knocks.

Great Read!

Reviewer: GhostWriter

THREE BEACON REVIEW FOR CHASING MEMORIES

by Cindy Bauer

Amnesiac, Laura Thompson, thought the worse crisis that could ever happen to her was losing her memories of her marriage and the birth of her six year-old daughter. But she was wrong. Her life deals her one emotional crisis after another when she struggles to reestablish just who she was.

She learns that her husband is dead, that she lives alone in a small house with her young daughter, and that Christmas is just around the corner. She doesn’t remember the car that ran her down and broke her leg as she shoveled snow from her neighbor’s walk, or the strong young woman who takes over the directing of her daily life.

Recapturing her illusive identity doesn’t come easy, even with the constant love and support from her neighbors, friends, her employer, and family members. Her faith is sorely tested! Again and again she must learn to trust strangers who want to tell her what to do. In spite of her life’s traumas she and her young daughter discover that life is a continuous process filled with new opportunities to begin afresh.

This Inspirational story of Laura’s brave struggle to become her own person, leans heavily upon her relationships with the people who love her, and the supportive members of her community church.

A Good Read!

LighthouseLiteraryReviews.com

Reviewer: JoEllen

"I spent a wonderful Saturday afternoon and evening enjoying a great read. The story, while a little sad, did show that even when life deals you a bad hand, you can overcome the obstacles and make the most of it. I especially liked the descriptive prose of each chapter. I could see the snow falling, smell the pine of the Christmas tree, and feel the warmth of the characters."

Submitted by Karen L. Petty, Winter Park, FL, Amazon Rating: 4 Stars

"What a pleasure, in today's traumatic world, to be able to get comfortable in your recliner and have a "good read" about "normal people" who tackle some of the same problems you and your lady friends have faced from time to time. This book reminds me of the ones my mother's book club read in the 1930's before "Forever Amber" came on the market and caused such a "splash". This was back when Faith Baldwin wrote such good stories, ones that held your attention and about good people who "just did the best they could" and did it with grace. I am looking forward to this writer's "follow up" story."

Submitted by Kay White Miles, Clinton, MO, Amazon Rating: 4 Stars

"I was very impressed with this book. I felt so sorry that Laura had so much tragedy happen in a short period of time. I was glad that somewhere in her subconscious, the motherly instinct kicked in and she was able to re-connect with her daughter. I am anxiously awaiting to read the second book in Cindy's trilogy."

Submitted by Karen Mills, Batesville, AR, Amazon Rating: 5 Stars

"I was drawn into this book by how the author was able to describe everyday events with ease. The more I read, the more I felt for the main character and all her challenges. I am looking forward to the next book in the series to find out how life continues to challenge her."

Submitted by Margaret Knisely, Clinton, MO, Amazon Rating: 4 Stars

"This is a wonderful story, very heart touching. I like how you carefully describe each scene. It makes me, the reader feel as if I'm actually there. I could visualize every scene. The flow is smooth. It is easy reading...easy to follow what is taking place step by step.

This is surely a story of tragedy, a bond between two friends and a strong desire to want to move forward. Although all these obstacles were thrown before her, and through her frustrations, perhaps, bitterness at times and the willingness to accept the things she cannot change and work with what she got was a real touching message for me as well.

I loved the story tremendously. Very articulated, well thought out story line, well written and an ethical and moral story for all who has a forgotten memory. I'm happy the story ended the way it did and not the way I had anticipated. This makes the story feel real. I'm saying "bring on the next one"...Shades of Blue. Your book could make a LIFETIME movie."

Submitted by: Alice Grant, Greenwood, MS

"I first saw in the Assumption newsletter about your book. I had our library order it. It's great. Can't wait to read your next book!"

Submitted by: Diana Smith, Roanoke, VA

"I found this book hard to put down. I found myself relating to the main character, Laura. The house fire and incidents following were very realistic. I can't wait to read the second book in this trilogy."

Submitted by: Rebecca Albin, Clinton, MO

"I started reading it and couldn't put it down. It had me on the edge of my seat. I have to know what happens next and can't wait for the next book to come out!"

Submitted by: Cheryl Weaver, Peru, IN

"I loved your book! I can hardly wait to read the next one!"

Submitted by: Sami Cowsert, Clinton, MO

"Chasing Memories is wonderful! I couldn't put it down and I can't wait for the next one!"

Submitted by: Darlene Dice, Clinton, MO

Shades of Blue Second in the Memory Box Trilogy

by Cindy Bauer

Shades of Blue picks up where Chasing Memories left off. In Chasing Memories, Laura’s closest friend Susan Barnes becomes the main character. At the end of Chasing Memories, she had moved to Kansas City, got a new job, new apartment and become engaged! The book begins with her wedding. Susan thought she had married an upcoming attorney with a promising future. Turns out he’s a drug dealer, has an alcohol problem, and becomes abusive as well. The story is based on “could-really-happen” life events and how Susan deals with them, drawing her closer to the Lord.

Purchase Link:

http://www.cindybauerbooks.com/index.htm

FOUR STAR REVIEW FOR SHADES OF BLUE

By Cindy Bauer

Susan Barnes never put too much thought into marriage or a family of her own. She believed that love was something that would come in due time. Until then, she remained a true, dedicated friend to Laura Thompson and her daughter Annie, who, had suffered through tragedies of their own. Susan, a vibrant, independent young woman finally found the man of her dreams. Tom Watson dazzled her from the first time they met. He was perfect. She thought. Somewhere through it all she lost that fairytale love. She lost her self-esteem and finesse.

I thought the book was a delicate read. The spiritual side of the story was very empowering. I could relate to Susan in many ways.

Reviewer: Wanda

GhostwriterReviews.com

REVIEW FOR SHADES OF BLUE

YOU DESERVE A STAND-UP OVATION!

You did it again! Yet another heart rocking story.

I wept for Susan. I wept for her accepting Tom's abuse because she was dependent upon him for her basic living. I wept for her because she was initially blinded by the strong love she carried for him. I wept for her for not making any of the household's financial decisions/being unaware of what was going on. I wept for her for covering up for him. I wept for her for choosing not to confide in her busy traveling parents. And, sadly of all, I wept for Susan because she lost herself in him. In a matter of years, she transformed from a strong, independent, goal-oriented young woman into a reduced form of what he was more comfortable with -- someone he could control, manipulate and dangle like a Muppet and always be there at his every beck and call.

I feel like God gives us whispers. But, it is up to us to adhere to them. The beginning chapters provided hints to Tom's "true colors." By the seventh chapter, it was apparent that he would have "hidden secrets." Susan heard the whispers - she saw the signs. But, she loved him. She refused to believe he was capable of the things he was doing. Initially, she wanted so desperately a perfect marriage at whatever the cost. And that cost could have cost her, her life. The statistics are overwhelming with women in this exact situation. Many do not have a friend like Susan had in Laura. Many have absolutely no place to go with their children. Domestic abuse is never acceptable whether the man hit the woman once or hundreds of times. It’s never to be tolerated.

Any woman that picks up Shades of Blue to read, will perhaps find something in it she can relate to, whether she’s in an abusive relationship/marriage or not. For the woman who IS being verbally, physically or emotionally abused, create a "mental slideshow" viewing your marriage in its entirety, survey the pros and cons, and use this book as a guide to inspire you to make what’s best for you and your children. Susan did it.

This was not your typical, PREDICTABLE kind of story. I can't wait for the last in the trilogy, Crystal Clear. Bravo, Bravo!! (You deserve a stand-up ovation.) This could very well convince that woman who has been thinking about leaving, to leave.

Alice Grant - Author of "Dear Mr. President, Please Send My Daddy Home"

REVIEW FOR SHADES OF BLUE

This book is fabulous. Shades of Blue picks up where Chasing Memories stopped. All the characters from the first book have returned along with some new ones. Susan Barnes portrays the main character in this book. She goes through some trials and rough times, but manages to overcome the odds by the end of the book. Be prepared to read this book in one sitting as you will not want to put it down once you start it.

I give it 5 stars!

Submitted by: Rebecca Albin, Clinton, MO

Books In Sync’ and ‘The Book Attic’ Interviews

Multi-Book Author Cindy Bauer

Cindy resides in Missouri, USA

Tell us what makes you proud to be a writer from Missouri, USA? I don't know that living in Missouri has anything to do with it. I'm just happy to be doing what I really enjoy and something I've wanted to do my entire life. Write!

What or who inspired you to become a writer? I was always an avid reader as a child and dreamed of becoming a writer. My sister is the one who really set it into motion though.

When did you begin writing with the intention of becoming published? April 2006 and it was published January 2007

Did your environment or upbringing play a major role in your writing and why? I believe I covered this above, but I was an avid reader as a child and always wanted to be able to write books, too. With only a high school education though, I thought it would never be possible. Until my sister, a former journalism teacher, told me I write well and should consider writing a book someday. Coming from her, that's a very high compliment and it motivated me to do exactly that.

Do you come up with your title (s) before or after you write the manuscript (s)? Before! I already know what the story is going to be before I begin, but sometimes it goes in a different direction during the writing process.

Tell us why you write the genre(s) that you write? I actually enjoy reading mysteries so I was quite surprised when I got about halfway through my first novel and realized it was Inspirational Fiction and not a mystery. I plan to change genres to mystery-suspense series once this Christian trilogy is completed.

What format are your books in: Print Only.....E-Book Only.....or Both? The first two books were print and are out of print now, though used copies may still be available on the web. My third book is actually a rewrite of the first book. It's for sale as a printed book or a downloadable book.

Current Book (s): I'm currently rewriting my second published novel and then will finish writing the third and final book in the trilogy, Crystal Clear, which was never published before. My first book was Chasing Memories. My third book is Chasing Memories - First in the Memory Box Trilogy. The second book was Shades of Blue and will now be Shades of Blue - Second in the Memory Box Trilogy and then of course, the final book will be Crystal Clear - Third in the Memory Box Trilogy.

What special projects are you working on now and what books do we have to look forward to in the future? Basically I've answered this question as well. My current project is to rewrite and republish my first two published novels. I severed ties with the POD publisher and they are no longer on the market. I wanted to get them back on the market before putting out the final book in the series. Everyone is anxiously awaiting that final book, so I'm quite busy getting that all into motion for them, my readers.

Is there anything else that you would like to share? Yes. Never give up on those long ago or forgotten dreams. Do what makes you happy, even if only as a hobby. This is a career move for me, actually, so I can semi-retire. I want to do what I've always wanted to do, and that's writing.

Websites:

Please visit Cindy’s Author’s Page:

http://www.booksinsync.com/missouri/bauercindy.html

www.cindybauerbooks.com

www.cindybauer.blogspot.com

www.reviewsbycindy.blogspot.com

www.interviewsbycindy.blogspot.com

www.shoutlife.com/cindybauer

Email: cindybauerbooks@yahoo.com

Interview done by Theodocia McLean – Owner of ‘Books In Sync’: http://www.booksinsync.com

and ‘The Book Attic’: http://www.thebookattic.us

and ‘AG Associated Press’: http://www.agpress.net

Interview:

Our Author of Note this month is Cindy Bauer. I so appreciate Cindy stopping by The Bookshelf.

Q. Welcome, Cindy! I know my readers want to know all about you as a writer, and we’re going to get to that right away. But first, we’d like to know who you are outside your office. Tell us about Cindy Bauer, the lady next door.

A. First I want to thank you for having me. I’m honored to be here.

I’ve been married almost 32 years to a wonderful man who makes me laugh. We don’t have any children, though we did try. I lost seven and we finally gave up. We decided it was not in the Lord’s plan for us. We both grew up in Davenport, Iowa. In fact, we were born at the same hospital. I’m 15 months older than hubby.

We’ve lived in five states and have moved many times, but we planted roots here in Missouri in 1986, when called upon to help my dad with my terminally ill mother. She passed in 1988. I have one brother and sister, both older than me. They’re actually my half-siblings, but since they were “in place” when I was born, I’ve never considered them as anything but my brother and sister.

I work at our local daily newspaper. We publish five days a week. It had been my dream for years to become an author. My sister, a former journalism teacher, hounded me to begin writing the book(s) I had long ago dreamed of, but pushed aside once I got married. So my journey began. And what a ride it has been!

I enjoy spending time with hubby, the dog and meeting challenges. I enjoy helping others and have a close relationship with the Lord.

Q. That said…you recently “fired” your publisher and are now trying to place your trilogy elsewhere. I wish you great success with that! Tell us about your books.

A. Yes, I did sever ties with PublishAmerica. If you are a serious writer, POD publishing or self-publishing is not the way to go. My books are an Inspirational Fiction series. I began with Chasing Memories, which I based around my own “memory box.” The story developed itself as I wrote. In order to complete the whole picture for my readers, a trilogy was inevitable.

Chasing Memories is about a young widowed mother. While helping her elderly neighbor, she’s hit by a careening car on an icy street. She wakes up in the hospital with amnesia (hubby’s idea by the way). The story is her struggle with learning to live with virtual strangers and strengthening her faith in God by trusting Him to guide her along her journey in recovering her memories. The ending actually has two surprises, which of course I can’t tell you about.

Shades of Blue picks up where Chasing Memories left off. In Chasing Memories, Laura’s closest friend Susan Barnes becomes the main character. At the end of Chasing Memories, she had moved to Kansas City, got a new job, new apartment and become engaged! The book begins with her wedding. Susan thought she had married an upcoming attorney with a promising future. Turns out he’s a drug dealer, has an alcohol problem, and becomes abusive as well. The story is based on “could-really-happen” life events and how Susan deals with them, drawing her closer to the Lord.

The final book, Crystal Clear, is about Annie, the daughter. It picks up where Shades of Blue left off. I’m still in the process of getting down the rough draft, after rewrites on the first two for submission as a series to more reputable publishers. The series is intended to be enjoyed by anyone, from young adults and up. I hope the stories show that though life may throw some difficult obstacles, you can take the experience and knowledge from those events and use them to your benefit and possibly the benefit of others. In other words, don’t dwell on what went wrong in the past, but use the knowledge gained to better your future instead.

Q. What was your inspiration for this series?

A. After mom’s untimely death, our immediate family basically fell apart. She was the glue that held us together. I began to feel the need to tie up those gaps in our family communication. I started saving everything, from greeting cards, to photos, to letters and put them in a container (very large mind you), now kept on the floor of my bedroom closet. I call it my “memory box,” with mementos to reflect on later in life. I wanted to pass that on to others, thus the beginning of Chasing Memories, which is based around a memory box. Family is so precious and we need to treasure them now, and hold them close in our hearts after their passing. Though they are gone in sight, their love and their souls are still very much here with us! Don’t go through life with regrets. Sometimes there is no tomorrow. So tell them every day that you love them.

Q. How long does it take you (on average) to write a book, from first word to being ready to place in a publisher’s hands?

A. Interesting question. I work full time, plus I’m a housewife. With hubby’s physical limitations, there is more work now than there used to be. So, approximately nine months. Much longer than I would like, but I just don’t have the time I need to spend on them to complete them sooner.

Q. What do you enjoy most about writing? Least?

A. The reaction I get from my readers and learning what they took with them by reading my books. I was recently delighted to learn my sister-in-law’s daughter-in-law, who recently lost her job, decided to go back to college after reading my first book Chasing Memories. And after reading Shades of Blue, she said she has bonded with the characters and doesn’t want me to move forward with my mystery-suspense series, but write more in this series, instead.

Least? Getting that rough draft down. Fine tuning it is the easy part. It’s getting that rough draft down that I get wrapped around.

Q. What books are on your nightstand right now?

A. I recently became a book reviewer for Bookpleasures.com. I’m getting a chance to read others’ works, which I am learning a lot from, plus it’s an opportunity to express my abilities as a writer and reviewer. Right now I am reading Angels of Maradona by Glen Carter. Next I have a new one from author Kelly Moran, called When the Leaves Stop Falling. I just read Hard Evidence by best-selling author Roxanne Rustand, and still have her other two to cover. Plus, I have one by a new author, Donetta Garman, (whom I actually know), called Growing Up Ugly.

Q. I know that interviewers often don’t ask the questions an author would really like to talk about. Is there anything you’d like to say that I haven’t touched on?

A. Yes, I do. Since I enjoy helping others, I have several features available on my website, other than my own books. There are over 200 books by other authors, some best-selling authors. I also do a detailed monthly newsletter where I promote other authors and their books. There are interviews and reviews, recipes and an electronic version of the Bible for your spiritual needs. Visit my site at www.cindybauerbooks.com. I would also like to tell others to never, ever, give up on your dreams. Don’t sit back and say “I wonder if...” Don’t leave this world with regrets. Do what your heart tells you to do. Go with your instincts. You have those for a reason and God has you in His plans! Just do what comes natural and leave the details to Him! Again, thank you for this opportunity, Delia.

Cindy Bauer was born in Davenport, Iowa, where she grew up the youngest of three children. Always an avid reader, she dreamed of becoming a writer. She graduated from Assumption High School in 1975 and married her husband, Robert, in 1976. The couple moved to Missouri in 1986. Cindy's dream to write resurfaced in 2003, and with encouragement from her husband and her sister, she wrote Chasing Memories (2006). Shades of Blue followed in 2007. Currently Cindy is working on the third and final novel in this series, Crystal Clear.

Contact Email:

cindybauerbooks@yahoo.com

Purchase Links:

http://www.cindybauerbooks.com/index.htm

http://stores.lulu.com/cindybauer