In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode, Meredyth sits down with N.L. Holmes—former nun, archaeologist, professor, and now a prolific historical fiction author with 15 novels to her name. Together, they unpack her extraordinary life journey, touching on identity, faith, reinvention, and how the past still mirrors the present.
You'll hear about:
Her 20 years in a cloistered convent—the silence, the solitude, the internal doubts, and the moment she knew it was time to leave.
Reentering the "real world" at 40—from learning computers and credit cards to earning a PhD and excavating ancient ruins in Israel and Greece.
Becoming a historical fiction author—how she turns forgotten historical figures and political upheaval into compelling mystery series.
Reflections on faith, shame, and the modern Church—including honest thoughts on institutional failures, celibacy, and spiritual growth.
The powerful connection between past and present—and why understanding ancient civilizations might be the key to navigating today's world.
This conversation is a thoughtful blend of humor, history, and humanity. Whether you're fascinated by religious life, drawn to archaeology, or love historical fiction rooted in real events, this episode will leave you thinking deeply about reinvention, resilience, and the stories we carry.
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00:00 Introducing NL Holmes
03:13 Life Inside the Convent
13:06 Why She Left
19:15 Always a Matter of Your Choice
36:53 The Hittite Series and Historical Grounding
37:55 Lord Hani Mysteries and Historical Basis
40:05 Exploring Modern Parallels
41:56 Reflections on Human Nature and History
45:45 The Absurdity of Race and Education
51:32 Writing and Future Plans
56:11 Conclusion
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Ready to dive even deeper? I'm handing you the keys to the castle! If you loved this episode and want more, don't forget to hit subscribe so you never miss out! Let's stay connected—find me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
🔗 Connect with N.L Holmes:
Visit her website: www.nlholmes.com
FaceBook page: www.facebook.com/NLHolmes
📚 N.L.'s latest book, The Melody of Evil, is available on Amazon and wherever books are sold. Get a copy before it runs out.
