Meet Bonny MacDonell, Heroine of Within Golden Bands
Meet Bonny McDonell, the main character in my latest novel, Within Golden Bands, the sequel to Land of My Dreams, which releases on May 19th.
Bonny McDonnell, Heroine of Within Golden Bands
Character Interview
Congratulations on your marriage to Kieran! How are things going?
I think most people go into marriage wearing rose-colored glasses. Ours came off rather quickly. We delayed our honeymoon for six weeks to allow Kieran more time to heal from the gunshot wound in his abdomen from a poacher.
I began feeling bad just before we left for our honeymoon and got very sick on the flight from Scotland to New Mexico. Twelve hours on a plane with severe nausea. By the time we reached landed, I was so dehydrated the flight attendant insisted on getting a wheelchair. My best friends, Kari and Dan McDowell met us at the airport and took us to the emergency room at Presbyterian Hospital. I’ll never forget the look in those sky-blue eyes of Kieran’s when the doctor said I was pregnant. He looked like a kid when the Christmas tree lights go on for the first time. I was in such shock that it’s a good thing I was lying down!
Meet Bonny MacDonell from Within Golden Bands, a romantic suspense novel releasing May 19th! #Christfic #RomSus #preorder Share on XNot long after we returned home, I awakened in the emergency room in Fort William. That’s the closest town to Stonehaven Farm with a hospital. All I wanted was Kieran but he was nowhere to be found. Now, I’m not giving out any spoilers here. But you know, my first thought was that I shouldn’t have allowed myself to get excited and start thinking about baby names and a nursery. There is loss too deep for tears. If I thank God, for one thing, each day, perhaps I can begin to heal.
If I thank God, for one thing, each day, perhaps I can begin to heal. Bonny McDonnell, Within Golden Bands #Christrom #preorder #amreading Share on X
It was almost two days before they found Kieran where his Land Rover had crashed in a ravine. While he was looking for missing sheep, some maniac hit him over the head. Between losing the baby and feeling as if we’re at war with some unknown enemy, we’ve had a stressful beginning to our marriage. We thought life would be so peaceful.
What do you find most surprising about marriage?
Kieran and I had our ups and downs before we got married but we always agreed on the big things. You know, faith in God, wanting a family, and working as a team on the farm. It’s been a real surprise to discover that when things go wrong, we don’t always agree. Marriage isn’t supposed to be this hard, is it?
What is amazing is the time we spend in prayer. All our differences melt away when we’re on our knees together. One scripture we lean on is Deuteronomy 33:25 (AMPC) “Your castles and strongholds shall have bars of iron and bronze, and as your day, so shall your strength, your rest, and security be.”
It’s been a real surprise to discover that when things go wrong, we don’t always agree. Bonny McDonnell, Within Golden Bands #RomSus #BYNR #Amazonbooks Share on XWhat’s it like to go from university professor to wife to a Scottish sheep farmer?
We decided before our marriage to quit teaching and concentrate on the farm and the chapel Kieran started building after our broken engagement. However, no longer teaching is a bigger change than I imagined. I miss being around people all the time. I’m learning about the sheep slowly but having someone stalk you makes it difficult to concentrate.
You lived in Scotland for almost a year before you married. Have you had any difficulty in adjusting to a climate so different from New Mexico?
I lived in Fort William, about an hour and a half from the farm. It’s much rainier here and I long for sunny New Mexico skies, especially when it rains for a week straight. I didn’t notice when we were falling in love and planning a wedding but sometimes, I miss that dry air.
What’s your favorite thing about living in Scotland?
I lived in the mountains even in New Mexico, so I love that here. I’m still a desert rat, fascinated by large bodies of water. It’s amazing to have a loch in the front yard.
Oh, don’t forget the sheep! I love the sheep. They’re not as dumb as people tend to think. They are easily frightened though, and that gets them into trouble. I understand why Jesus used them in parables all of the time and said people were like them. I know I’m going to understand those scripture references better the longer I live here.
What are you learning through all the problems you’ve experienced?
Kieran and I have had one trial after another since before we got married. I’m really aware of how much I need to stay close to God. If it wasn’t for his help, I’d be terrified all the time. I’m closer to God than ever before, and I think Kieran would say the same thing. It’s not easy choosing to trust and never question the wisdom of God.
My most frequent prayer is still to be a mother. I’m ready. Kieran isn’t. That makes it really hard. We’ll see where God leads. God has a plan, and we need to discover it.
It’s not easy choosing to trust and never question the wisdom of God. Bonny McDonnell, Within Golden Bands #pageturner #adoption #infertility Share on XDo you have any hints for the people who haven’t read your story yet?
I’m not giving hints. However, I will say that the best decision I ever made in my life, next to asking Jesus to be my Lord and Savior, was to marry Kieran MacDonell. No matter what happens, he’s like this old, stone house, steady and strong through every storm. He’ll make a wonderful pastor. I can’t wait until that chapel is ready to open.
If you loved the taste of Scotland you got from Land of My Dreams, you’ll be thrilled to know that the land itself is still a huge part of our story. And, I’ve been working on my Scots-Gaelic. So be ready for an adventure in the pages of Within Golden Bands!
If you loved Land of My Dreams, be ready for an adventure in the pages of Within Golden Bands! #Scotland #RomSus #BYNR Share on XAbout the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, or Amazon.
When that Frustrated Feeling Goes Viral
I’m frustrated and I want this quarantine life to be over! I’ll bet a lot of you are with me on that one.
When that Frustrated Feeling Goes Viral
2MefromHim Devotional
Do not be angry and frustrated. Do not fret. That only leads to trouble. Proverbs 37:8 (NET)
I’m frustrated and I want this quarantine life to be over! As a matter of fact, I’ll bet a lot of you are with me on that one. The COVID-19 virus has people in every level of society, every part of the world, every age and background frustrated on some level.
Do not be angry and frustrated. Do not fret. That only leads to trouble. Proverbs 37:8 #anger #frustration #relationships Share on XWhen Life Makes You Frustrated
If you’re high-risk, it’s scary! As a matter of fact, my husband was laid off. We’re stuck in our homes, the kids are out of school, everything is complicated. We question whether to wear masks or not and wonder if it’s safe to go to the store. Our internet is slow. I tried to make masks but my sewing machine has a broken gear. We’re trying to sell 3 vehicles but no one is buying. I’m certain you could add to the list. Oh, did I mention the refrigerator smells, even after being cleaned out and washed? When frustration gains a foothold, it goes viral fast.
If he was totally human, Jesus had reason to be frustrated on a daily basis. He lived and traveled with a group of men who failed to understand who he was. Moreover, they argued with each other, tried to gain a privileged position, and didn’t get what he was sent to accomplish.
The Antidote to Feeling Frustrated
Time after time, scripture encourages us to not give into anger, refrain from worry, treat others with patience, and focus on the good. After Paul lists all the excellent, noble, praiseworthy things we should concentrate on, he puts us in our place. Philippians 4:12-13 says, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Quarantine life makes us more than a little stir crazy. As a result, I need to concentrate on things that increase my satisfaction with my circumstances. However, God knew COVID-19 with all its ramifications would happen. Our peace and contentment come from Jesus Christ. Therefore, my feelings of stress and fear indicate my lack of trust.
Our peace and contentment come from Jesus Christ. #hope #peace #JesusChrist Share on XMaking Good Feelings Go Viral
I don’t want to be difficult to live with. Therefore, each day I will find something I can praise God for and encourage someone else. I will choose to treat those around me with grace and love. Likewise, kindness only costs thought and time. Let’s make joy and glory to God go viral. After all, he is still in control.
© Copyright, Norma Gail Holtman, April 19, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, or Amazon.
Our Reason for Hope When the World Fears
What is the reason for our hope during the COVIC-19 pandemic? In this week after Easter, I am reminded of the lack of hope the disciples experienced following the crucifixion.
Our Reason for Hope When the World Fears
2MefromHim Devotionals
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 1 Peter 3:15
What is the reason for our hope during the COVIC-19 pandemic? Right now, despair is a menacing specter for many. In this week after Easter, I think of the lack of hope the disciples experienced following the crucifixion. They hid in fear, confused, hopeless, and without direction.
Is There Reason for Hope During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Watching the news strikes fear into our hearts through uncertainty about our health and the economy. As Christians, our hope centers on the promises of God. 2 Corinthians 1:20 tells us, “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him, the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God.”
However, each of us knows people who are lost, fearful, and anxious about what life holds in a post-pandemic world. Jesus Christ is our hope, past, present, and future.
Our Reason for Hope in Every Circumstance
Before his death, Jesus told his followers about the helper they would receive when he was no longer with them. “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth…But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:16, 26, 27)
Following the resurrection, those who saw Jesus went forth into the hostile world with fearless confidence. The same enemies surrounded them, certain they had destroyed the threat to their way of life, yet the apostles exhibited power.
Christians have a helper to strengthen them when trials come. #faithinthetimeofcoronavirus #HolySpirit #trials Share on XOur Reason for Hope to Share with the World
In spite of our altered world, we possess the same promises and helper as Jesus’ disciples. The Holy Spirit confers upon the Christian the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead.
First, we study scripture and pray, then we go to our families, friends, and neighbors filled with joy and peace because of the hope within us. Our faith doesn’t rest in human wisdom offered in news reports but in the power of God. Share that hope with someone this week.
Do you hope in human wisdom or the power of God? #wisdom #power #Quarantinelife Share on X© Copyright, Norma Gail Holtman, April 13, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, or Amazon.
Easter in Quarantine: Hope for a Frightened World
Easter in quarantine–this Sunday, we won’t dress in our finest and gather in churches to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet, even in quarantine, Christians can proclaim the hope of our living Redeemer to those around us.
Easter in Quarantine: Resurrection Hope for a Frightened World
2MefromHim Devotionals
I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection… Philippians 3:10
On the first Easter, Jesus’ disciples did not proclaim the Good News of salvation to the world. They hid behind locked doors in fear, much like our quarantine due to COVID-19. This Sunday, we won’t dress in our finest and gather in churches to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet, even in quarantine, Christians can proclaim the hope of our living Redeemer to those around us.
On Easter in Quarantine, Christians Must Give Our Fear to God
First, we must give our fear to the Lord and leave it there. Precautions and obedience to laws that keep us safe are wise. Hiding in fear of death is not. Just before raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26) His question today is the same.
Jesus didn’t welcome the suffering he had to endure any more than we welcome the coronavirus but he prayed for God’s will, not his own. Mark reports that Jesus addressed God as “Daddy.” He prayed, “Abba, Father…everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me.” If we truly believe that we have already passed from death to life (John 5:24), we know God is in control no matter what trials come. True faith is trust in the midst of turmoil.
On Easter in Quarantine, We Must Proclaim Our Hope to a Lost and Fearful World
There is no shame in sharing our fears about the pandemic with friends. Common concerns offer a basis to explain our hope. When Jesus appeared following his resurrection, he told the disciples to have peace.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ isn’t only a historical event. The resurrection is power. Ephesians 1:18-20 says believers have an “incomparably great power.” The mighty power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead lives within us. However, in order for that power to be evident in our lives, we must die to self, lay our fears at Jesus’ feet, and walk in his peace, offering hope to a frightened world. The disciples were fearless after the resurrection.
The disciples were fearless after the resurrection. #courage coronavirus #Easter Share on X
Be Creative This Easter
Though we can’t invite friends and family to church this Easter, we can write notes to unbelievers sharing the reason for our trust in God. Perhaps we can invite them to watch an online church service with us by Facetime, Skype, or Zoom. They might be more open to a service online or television than attending a worship service. Afterward, we can answer their questions.
Our hope is certain. 1 Peter 2:6 says, “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” Jesus is that Cornerstone. We will come through this pandemic as stronger, more confident Christians if we focus on the One who overcame death by the power of the resurrection rather than hiding in fear.
We will come through this pandemic as more confident Christians if we focus on the One who overcame death by the power of the resurrection #victory #COVID19 Share on X© Norma Gail Holtman, April 3, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, or Amazon.
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Moses and the Exodus Offer Lessons for Our Time
Moses and the Exodus provide many powerful lessons applicable to our time. God’s freeing of the Israelites from Egyptian captivity speaks to the fear rampant during our isolation in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moses and the Exodus Offer Lessons for Our Time
2MefromHim Devotionals
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! Romans 5:9
Moses and the Exodus provide many powerful lessons applicable to the COVID-19 pandemic. God’s freeing of the Israelites from Egyptian captivity speaks to the fear rampant during our isolation.
Just as Israel was held captive by a strong enemy that threatened their ability to live as free people, we are held prisoner by this virus running rampant in the world. The people were afraid, and God sent them a deliverer in the form of Moses. As believers in Jesus Christ, we have the confidence that God is in control, just as he showed his power over the mighty Pharaoh.
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! Romans 5:9 #salvation #Godislove #hope Share on XGod Protected Moses and the Exodus
During the plagues of Egypt, the Israelites were protected because God wanted Pharaoh to realize there was no one like him in all the earth.
In the way that our protection rests in social distancing and personal hygiene, the safety of the Israelites relied on trusting a strange order from God to Moses. Their firstborn were protected by the blood of a lamb painted on the doorframe. However, they had seen how God shielded them from the other plagues. As believers, we must share our trust in God’s love and control whenever we are able.
Believers must share our trust in God’s love and control whenever we are able... #Christians #Godislove #pandemic Share on XChristians Rest on the Promises of God
Just as the blood of a lamb painted on the doorframe protected the Israelites, Christians have the assurance that the blood Jesus, shed for our sins, covers us with protection. We have forgiveness and eternal life but also abundant life right now. John 10:10 tells us, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (NASB) We can live without fear because God is in control. We must share our hope with others.
Pharaoh set the Israelites free after the death of his firstborn. Moses and the Exodus left Egypt with great wealth, because of the Egyptians eagerness to get rid of them. The Christian’s great wealth during times of trial rests on the promises of God.
The Christian’s great wealth during times of trial rests on the promises of God #trials #hope #coronavirus Share on XMoses and the Exodus Remind Christians of Our Hope
In spite of all the miracles God performed, the Israelites rebelled and became afraid once they reached the desert. Likewise, we as believers have stories of how God helped us in the past. But with the drastic, unexpected changes wrought by the coronavirus pandemic, it’s easy to become afraid. Ephesians 1:7-8a reminds us, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us.
While others panic, the story of Moses and the Exodus reminds us that our hope is in the God who watches over his own. The blood of Jesus sets us free.
Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27
Our hope is in the God who watches over his own... #Godisgood #COVID19 #protection Share on X© Norma Gail Holtman, March 24, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, or Amazon.
