Pen to Paper

Leah Lindeman
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In "Pen to Paper," Canadian historical fiction author Leah Lindeman shares how, with a healthy growth mindset and the right writing tools and techniques, you can achieve your dream of writing your story and sharing it with the world.

  1. S5-E2-2025 Unlock Your Writing: Critique Partners, Alpha & Beta Readers Explained

    4D AGO

    S5-E2-2025 Unlock Your Writing: Critique Partners, Alpha & Beta Readers Explained

    Struggling to understand critique partners, alpha readers, and beta readers? In this episode, Leah explains what they are, what they do, why they're essential for your writing, and how they fit into your revision process. From accountability and vulnerability to catching plot holes early and getting real reader reactions—learn why these feedback partners are game-changers for aspiring writers and authors!   Leah shares personal stories (including her pug in a goldfish bag analogy!), tips on finding them, handling feedback, and being specific with questions. Perfect follow-up to last week's writing community chat!   Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & intro to today's topic (follow-up on writing community) 1:00 - Why these readers matter + pug analogy for fresh eyes 2:30 - Critique Partners: What they do, why they're important, reciprocity & technical feedback 5:00 - Finding critique partners & giving balanced, specific notes 7:00 - Alpha Readers: Early feedback, vulnerability in first drafts, sounding boards & idea bouncing 10:30 - Flexible ways to use alpha readers (chapter-by-chapter or big-picture) 12:00 - Beta Readers: Later-stage market/reader reactions, questions to ask, deadlines & romance genre example 15:00 - How they all fit together in the drafting/editing process 17:00 - Personal examples from Leah's work + Q&A encouragement 19:00 - Wrap-up, likes/comments/subscribe, life interruptions & beach tease!If you've used alpha, beta, or critique partners, drop a fun story or tip in the comments—I read them all!   Subscribe for weekly writing tips, author life inspiration, and more!   🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer   📚 Explore My Books:   Redeemed From the Ashes:  https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart:  https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold:  https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones:  https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody:  https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG   ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind   📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com   ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman   ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/    🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I'm raising my seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books!   Yours truly, Leah

    13 min
  2. S5-E1-2026 Why Writers Need Acountability: The Power of Groups and Readers

    FEB 6

    S5-E1-2026 Why Writers Need Acountability: The Power of Groups and Readers

    Struggling to finish your novel, script, or blog posts? Discover why writers NEED accountability from writing groups and readers to 3X your productivity and actually complete your projects! In this podcast, I break down the real reasons solo writing can lead to procrastination and how joining a writing group or sharing with beta readers transforms your creative process. You'll learn: Why accountability beats motivation every time The massive benefits of writer feedback, community support, and deadlines How to start or find the perfect writing accountability group (online or in-person) 🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer   📚 Explore My Books:   Redeemed From the Ashes: https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC   Ghost of My Heart: https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD   Wisps of Gold: https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE   Scathed Bones: https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF   Unborn Melody: https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG   ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind   📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com   ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman   ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/   🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I'm raising my seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books!   Yours truly, Leah

    18 min
  3. S4—E8—Author Scene: Alyssa Delle Palme

    08/22/2025

    S4—E8—Author Scene: Alyssa Delle Palme

    In this episode, I'm thrilled to chat with Ottawa-based author Alyssa Delle Palme about her upcoming adult romance novel, Signing Off for the Summer, releasing June 6, 2025! We dive into her inspiration behind the book, her love for summer romances, and how her experiences as a broadcast journalist and cottage life shaped this heartfelt story. Plus, we geek out over Broadway musicals, her Read Between the Pines book club, and tips for aspiring writers! Don't miss this cozy, inspiring conversation with a local Canadian talent. Grab Signing Off for the Summer Online https://amz.cx/3ShN or at select Ottawa bookstores! Check out Alyssa's Read Between the Pines book club at https://bitl.to/4clK Don't forget to subscribe for more author interviews and literary goodness and please review!  🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer 🇨🇦Canada Book Events Submit your event: https://gogl.to/3IWs IG: @canadabookevents 📚 Explore My Books: Redeemed From the Ashes: https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart: https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold: https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones: https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody: https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind 📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/ 🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I live with my husband and seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books! Yours truly, Leah

    43 min
  4. S4—E8–What Makes a Great Chapter Beginning?

    05/23/2025

    S4—E8–What Makes a Great Chapter Beginning?

    In this episode, I'm sharing my top tips on how to write a strong chapter opening that hooks your reader and keeps them turning pages. We're diving into the three key elements you need—Compelling, Conflict, and Character—and how to use them to craft unforgettable beginnings for any genre, from fantasy to mystery to romance. Plus, I'm filming outdoors in my backyard for a change, and I share a quick life update about my exciting house move (a miracle story I can't wait to tell you about)! What You'll Learn: How to create compelling chapter openings that grab attention Examples from classics like 1984 and Peter Pan to inspire you Tips for balancing action, conflict, and character-driven starts How to adapt these techniques to your genre Don't miss my upcoming incredible story of how we got our new home! If you found this helpful, please subscribe for weekly writing tips. 🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer 🇨🇦Canada Book Events Submit your event: https://gogl.to/3IWs IG: @canadabookevents 📚 Explore My Books: Redeemed From the Ashes:  https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart:  https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold:  https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones:  https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody:  https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind 📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching ( Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/  🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I live with my husband and seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books! Yours truly, Leah

    9 min
  5. S4—E7–Author Scene: Judy Leslie

    04/24/2025

    S4—E7–Author Scene: Judy Leslie

    In this episode, I'm thrilled to chat with Judy Leslie, author of the captivating Cook's Cove series! Judy shares her incredible journey as a writer, from her mentorships with bestselling authors to crafting her mystery-driven, character-focused novels. We dive deep into her first book, House at the Cove, and explore the inspiration behind its gripping story, slow-burn romance, and unforgettable twists. Plus, Judy drops invaluable advice for aspiring writers! Grab Judy's books here: amazon.com/author/judyleslie  Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Welcome Judy Leslie 1:20 – Judy's Writing Journey & Mentors 4:50 – The 20-Year "Training Novel" & First Published Book Success 8:30 – Overcoming Physical Challenges to Write Again 11:00 – The Power of Book Club Ads & Hitting #3 on Amazon 14:40 – Inspiration Behind House at the Cove & Bellingham Roots 19:10 – Jenny's Story: Grief, Secrets, and a Slow-Burn Romance 24:30 – Crafting Suspense & Character-Driven Mysteries 30:00 – Judy's Research Trip to Ireland for For the Love of Ireland 34:00 – Writing the Cook's Cove Series & Plot Twists 39:00 – Advice for New Mystery Writers: Craft & Character Depth 45:00 – Judy's Favorite Craft Books (Wired for Story & Story Genius) 50:00 – Rewriting House at the Cove for Success 55:00 – Planting Seeds for Series Continuity 1:00:00 – Judy's Unique Character Inspirations (Burlesque Trapeze Artist?!) 1:05:00 – Outro & Book Recommendations Subscribe, and hit the bell for more author interviews and writing tips! 🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer 🇨🇦Canada Book Events Submit your event: https://gogl.to/3IWs IG: @canadabookevents 📚 Explore My Books: Redeemed From the Ashes:  https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart:  https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold:  https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones:  https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody:  https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind 📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/ 🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I live with my husband and seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books! Yours truly, Leah

    1h 2m
  6. S4—E6–How to Write Visually

    04/16/2025

    S4—E6–How to Write Visually

    Struggling to make your writing pop? In this video, I'm diving into my top 3 tips to write visually and bring your stories to life! From engaging the five senses to mastering "show, don't tell" and using powerful similes and metaphors, I'll show you how to captivate your readers' senses and emotions. Plus, I'm sharing examples from Edgar Allan Poe, Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, and even my own work-in-progress novella, His Girl. Whether you're writing fiction, historical novels, or just want to spice up your prose, this Writing 101 guide is packed with actionable tips to make your words leap off the page. Don't miss my favorite sensory writing exercises and a peek into The Emotional Thesaurus for crafting authentic character emotions! Don't forget to subscribe for more writing tips every week. Happy writing! 🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer 🇨🇦Canada Book Events Submit your event: https://gogl.to/3IWs IG: @canadabookevents 📚 Explore My Books: Redeemed From the Ashes: https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart:  https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold:  https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones:  https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody:  https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind 📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/ 🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I live with my husband and seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books! Yours truly, Leah

    21 min
  7. S4—E5–Hook Your Readers in Less Than 60 Sec. : The Ultimate Guide to Book Trailers

    03/20/2025

    S4—E5–Hook Your Readers in Less Than 60 Sec. : The Ultimate Guide to Book Trailers

    Hey everyone! In this video, I'm spilling all my secrets on how to hook your readers in under 60 seconds with the ultimate guide to creating book trailers. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, this is your one-stop resource for mastering book trailers—why, they're a game-changer for book marketing, how to make one, and where to share them for maximum impact. I dive deep into what makes a book trailer irresistible: high-quality video clips (hello, Pexels.com!), the perfect music (I'm obsessed with AudioJungle), sound effects that bring it to life, and snappy text overlays that tease your story without giving it all away. Plus, I'll walk you through the pros and cons of DIYing it with tools like DaVinci Resolve (my go-to!) versus hiring a pro. Spoiler: I've got a playlist of my own trailers below to show you how I leveled up my game! Why should you care? A killer book trailer isn't just eye candy—it's a powerful way to build your book's brand, engage readers visually, and get them clicking "buy" on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more. I'll even share my top tips for keeping it short, sweet, and scroll-stopping—because in 2025, attention spans are tiny. And here's the exciting part: I'm now offering book trailer creation services for authors! If you write contemporary romance, historical fiction, thrillers, or fantasy (and more!), let's chat. Check the link below to book a consultation—I'd love to bring your vision to life. https://leahlindeman.com/trailer/  Don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes. Links Mentioned: Book a Trailer Consultation:  https://leahlindeman.com/trailer/ Stock Footage: Pexels.com,Pixabay.com Music: AudioJungle.net Software: DaVinciResolve.com

    26 min
  8. S4—E4—Author Scene: Alyssa Milani

    02/07/2025

    S4—E4—Author Scene: Alyssa Milani

    Hey everyone! Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alyssa Milani, an incredibly talented author of the upcoming dark romance novel, "The Chosen Secret." In this interview, we explored Alyssa's journey from writing horror and sci-fi to blending those elements into dark romance. We talked about her creative process, the unique challenges she faced while writing her latest book, and her experience with the anthology "Heart's Lock, Love's Key," where she contributed a charming hockey romance story. What You'll Learn: The inspiration behind "The Chosen Secret" and how Alyssa pushes her creative boundaries. - How she manages her writing with ADHD and the spontaneity of character-driven stories. The importance of being part of a writing community, especially for introverted writers like Alyssa. - A sneak peek into her upcoming works, including a sequel and more from her biker thriller romance series. Connect with Alyssa: Instagram: @alyssamilani  Follow her for updates, book news, and more! Books Available: You can find all her books on Amazon, Indigo, Barnes & Noble, or wherever books are sold. The Chosen Secret: https://amz.cx/3KZ6 Alyssa also shared some personal insights, like her initial interest in law before turning to writing, and how her husband's love for hockey influenced her stories. Plus, we had some cute interruptions from my kids, making this interview uniquely memorable. If you're in the Ottawa area, don't miss the chance to meet Alyssa and myself at our upcoming event at Stittsville Main Street Cafe, where we'll have a lineup of 12 romance authors, each with their unique stories to share. Please leave a review!  🎬Book Trailer Service leahlindeman.com/trailer 🇨🇦Canada Book Events Submit your event: https://gogl.to/3IWs IG: @canadabookevents 📚 Explore My Books: Redeemed From the Ashes: https://books2read.com/u/mgPvK4 https://amz.run/9DtC Ghost of My Heart: https://books2read.com/u/49DgQX https://amz.run/9DtD Wisps of Gold: https://books2read.com/u/4XKJZN https://amz.run/9DtE Scathed Bones: https://books2read.com/u/4Xnjve https://amz.run/9DtF Unborn Melody: https://books2read.com/u/b6lkjJ https://amz.run/9DtG ‼️ Follow Me on Socials linktr.ee/leahtlind 📧 Sign up for my newsletter leahlindeman.com ☕️ Buy me a coffee buymeacoffee.com/leahlindeman ✍🏽 WriteNow High Performance Writing Coaching (Write your book in 3 months! 3 month plan now 20% off—receive a free edit of your choice valued at $700 plus and 3 free months of writing group mastery valued at $150. Today is your day to write.) leahlindeman.com/writenow/ 🙋🏽‍♀️ About Me Feisty Latina—Love of classic literature—History buff—I'm the author of the Canadian Reminiscence Series. I live with my husband and seven children in the idyllic countryside of Eastern Ontario where I daydream daily of the Scottish Highlands. I love people and books! Yours truly, Leah

    39 min
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About

In "Pen to Paper," Canadian historical fiction author Leah Lindeman shares how, with a healthy growth mindset and the right writing tools and techniques, you can achieve your dream of writing your story and sharing it with the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Leah Lindeman
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Pen to Paper