Life has a way of surprising us with twists and turns, weaving a story far more captivating than anything we could plan. For Cindy Johnson, a proud 69-year-old author from Wheeling, West Virginia, her journey has been a testament to resilience, community, and the courage to embrace new chapters. Cindy doesn’t hesitate to share her age—she wears it as a badge of honor, a reflection of the incredible life she’s lived so far. From running a tourism business to becoming a self-published thriller writer, Cindy’s story is a shining example of why it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Building a Life Rooted in Connection
Cindy’s story is deeply tied to her connections—to people, places, and purpose. For years, she and her late husband, Stan, ran a successful tourism business, traveling the world and helping others discover its beauty. After the September 11 terror attack, travel took a backseat in most people’s lives. Cindy determined it was time to retire.
Back home in West Virginia, they built a life filled with laughter and joy, even opening a restaurant and bar near West Liberty that became a hub for community and connection.
However, Cindy’s life took a sharp turn when her husband passed away at the young age of 52. Grief led her to sell the business and retreat from social life. Her world grew smaller, but a friend’s encouragement eventually nudged her back out into the world. It was the starting point for a new chapter she didn’t see coming. With the help of her family and friends, she decided to “just get on with it.”
Finding Purpose Again
A part-time barista job at Oglebay was Cindy’s first step toward rediscovery. Though she faced health challenges that limited her physically, Cindy’s impressive background in tourism soon caught the attention of the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, who offered her a sales position. It was a role that reignited her sense of purpose—until the pandemic forced her back into isolation.
Rather than letting loneliness take over, Cindy turned to writing. What started as short stories shared on Facebook quickly grew into something more ambitious: a thriller trilogy inspired by her love of West Virginia. With its unique Radio Quiet Zone, Pocahontas County provided the perfect setting for her suspense-filled novels, including Hiding, Hunting, and the upcoming Healing.
The Magic of Community and Synchronicity
Throughout her life, Cindy has experienced what she calls “the magic of West Virginia”—the way seemingly chance encounters lead to incredible opportunities. From finding a young graphic designer for her book covers to being asked by Steve Novotney to be on his radio show, Cindy has seen firsthand how her Wheeling community comes together to support one another. “This is how it works in West Virginia,” she explains. “People are always willing to help, and if they don’t know how, they know someone who does.”
It’s this sense of community that has fueled Cindy’s journey as an author. Whether it’s book signings in her story’s setting of Pocahontas County or the encouragement of friends and neighbors, the kindness of West Virginia has been the magic behind her success.
It’s Never Too Late to Follow Your Dreams
Cindy’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. At 69, she’s embraced the joy of taking risks and creating something new. As our interview was coming to a conclusion, I asked Cindy if there was anything in particular she hoped this article would communicate. Without hesitation she mentioned her age again, smiled and replied,
Don’t let people tell you that you should settle or be settled. The joy of life is in the magic of taking chances.
For Cindy Johnson, every twist and turn in life has been a gift. From the heartbreak of loss to the excitement of self-publishing, her story is one of resilience, courage, and the enduring power of human connection. Cindy’s life—and her books—prove that life’s later chapters can be just as thrilling as the earlier ones. For anyone wondering if it’s too late to start something new, Cindy’s story offers a resounding answer: it never is.
Find Cindy’s Books Anywhere Books Are Sold
If Cindy’s incredible journey has inspired you, why not experience her thrilling novels for yourself? You can find Hiding, Hunting, and the soon-to-be-released Healing wherever books are sold. Whether you’re browsing online or supporting your favorite local bookstore, Cindy’s work is ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure.
Have You Experienced the Magic of West Virginia?
West Virginia has a way of weaving magic into our lives. I’ve experienced it myself, and I haven’t felt that same kind of magic anywhere else I’ve lived. From chance encounters to unexpected opportunities, it’s a place where things just seem to fall into place at the right moment. Have you felt that magic, too? Has someone or something shown up in your life at just the right time? Cindy and I would love to hear your stories! Share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the unique synchronicity and community spirit of West Virginia together.
