… I chose to write novels based on real events because I wanted to share authentic experiences that were transformative for me.
Lynda Faye Schmidt has written two-character driven novels based on real life, a women’s fiction and a family drama. She has also written a companion writing journal that encourages deep reflection as part of the series. Her fourth book, a women’s fiction novel, explores the theme of authentic purpose and launches in April 2023. Lynda hopes her YouTube channel speaks to topics in a way that inspires others and her monthly blog offers a positive spin on a variety of topics.
Lyndi: Why did you decide to begin with characters who are fictional characters inspired by your real-life experiences in The Healing and The Holding?
Lynda: I chose to write novels based on real events because I wanted to share authentic experiences that were transformative for me. I didn’t want to write non-fiction or memoir, as I desired the freedom to create my own stories. My main character, Cate Henderson, isn’t a fictionalized version of myself; she is a fictional character inspired by my real-life experiences. The lines are intentionally blurred to give me space to write my story, from my perspective. We all know that no two people see the same reality. Fiction based on real events is also one of my favourite genres to read.
Lyndi: How did The Healing & The Holding Companion Writing Journal come about? What kind of writing prompts does it include?
Lynda: I decided to write the Companion Journal after several readers expressed an interest in Cate Henderson’s journaling process. A few readers said they felt inspired to start their own journaling practice, but didn’t know how to get started. I’ve been journaling for over twenty years now, so it felt like an offering that I have a wealth of experience to contribute and speak to. The prompts are written to encourage curiosity and self-awareness, to answer the question, “Who is my authentic self?” To do this, the journal delves into family of origin and early childhood experiences as well as present-day values, core beliefs, and heart-yearnings.
Lyndi: What have you found to be the pros and cons of hybrid publishing?
Lynda: My experience with hybrid publishing surpassed all my expectations and dreams of what it would be like to transform my manuscripts into books. OC Publishing supported me in every part of the process, from editing and design to securing book reviews and arranging interviews. I appreciated the creative control I had over all aspects of book production and the professional quality of the end result. The only con for me was the costs, as all the elements of editing and design were my responsibility.
Lyndi: Your goal for your YouTube channel is to inspire, transform, and give hope. What kind of topics have you discussed?
Lynda: My first videos went out as I was preparing for the launch of my second novel, The Holding, so I explored themes of unconditional love, overcoming adversity and resilience. In later videos, I shared some of my healthy coping techniques, such as journaling and yoga. I created a four-part series on healthy relationships. A recent topic was my experience of a big life transition, with my move from the Middle East to Panama. The practice of gratitude and celebrating life’s blessings were the last two themes I covered.
Lyndi: Your forthcoming novels differ from your published novels. Why the new direction?
Lynda: All of my novels come to me as inspiration from my heart, in the moment. I don’t write to market and I don’t have a pre-existing outline or plan. I didn’t decide to write a series that consisted of two novels and a journal. I had an idea for The Healing and wrote that story. I had the inspiration to write a prequel and wrote The Holding. For me, each book I write is a process that is revealed to me over time, from the initial idea to the final sentence. My goal is to write a book a year, but what stories will come next, only time will tell.
Lyndi: What marketing methods have you found effective for selling your books?
Lynda: To be honest, the entire marketing piece of being an author is new and untraveled territory for me and I’m still finding my way. At first, I resented having to use social media platforms, but then I discovered that they could be an effective way to spread my messages and I embraced the opportunity to write meaningful, creative posts. I started using Canva and it’s a valuable resource for me that I have fun playing around with. My favourite way to get my word out there is through guest interviews on podcasts or video platforms, in conversations.
Lynda Faye Schmidt is a storyteller who writes from the heart. Her novels are emotionally impacting and character-driven. A huge part of her writing journey has been her daily journaling practice, and she has also written a guided journal.
Before becoming a writer, Lynda earned a Bachelor of Education. She taught in a variety of settings, sharing her love of reading, writing and creating with children.
After her move to the Middle East in 2015, Lynda kicked off her writing career with her blog, Musings of an Emotional Creature.She was also a contributor for DQ Living magazine.
Lynda has published two novels based on real life as a series, The Healing and The Holding. She launched her guided journal, The Holding & The Healing Companion Journal on October 23, 2022. Lynda’s third novel, The Rogue Scorpion, is set to be released on April 23, 2023.
Lynda is a Canadian expat. She lives in Panama with her husband, David and her furry companion, Lola. She believes her solid routines are the foundation for her wellness and spends her days writing, practicing yoga, exercising in her home gym, spending time in nature and connecting with the people she loves.
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