One of the best things about being a writer is working with other writers.
I have presented workshops on writing in the UK and abroad – and was for many years a mentor and organiser of the RNA’s highly acclaimed New Writers’ Scheme.
Forthcoming events include :
SLAY THE SLUSH PILE
Following the success of previous Slush Pile events, I am bringing it back to the Romance Writing Festival in Bournemouth on Saturday 3rd October 2026.
We are often told that the first chapter is the most important part of a book, both when attracting editors and agents initially and when engaging readers.
The truth is, it’s often much less than that. Decisions can be made in the first 500 words. The first 100 words. Or sometimes even the first sentence.
Festival attendees who are also writers are invited to send a sample of their work to get real-time reactions from our panel of publishers… find out what grabs their attention, and what gets a thumbs down.
Editors may even ask to see more.
You must have a ticket to the Romance Writing Festival to take part in this event. You find out more or book your ticket here.
https://www.romancewritingfestival.co.uk/slay-the-slush-pile-submissions
This event is suitable for anyone who has a book ready (or almost ready) for submission, whether they are currently unpublished, or are a published author seeking to lift their career to a new level. Or just come along and learn from other people’s submissions.
WRITING RETREAT
Each year, I teach a number of in-person writing retreats.
Each course is different – tailored to meet the requirements of a specific group of students and includes a one-to-one session with a tutor about your work in progress, and a chance to chat informally with fellow writers about all things writing related.
The next retreat is for anyone who is looking to lift their writing to a new level.
Find Your Unique Writing Voice is a all inclusive retreat in beautiful Devon – from February 2nd – 6th 2027.
The topics will include :
- What is Voice and how do you find it?
- No two authors will write the same story. Develop YOUR story with YOUR plot and YOUR characters
- Use your life experience to add depth to your fiction but know when to draw the line between memory and creativity.
- Talk to your reader as you would talk to a friend. MAKE your reader your friend.
- Write the first draft for yourself – then edit and polish for the reader
- Who wants to hear your voice – finding the right home for your book.
There will be workshops every morning and afternoon, writing time galore and, most importantly, lots of time to talk about the joys and hardships of being a writer with the only people who really understand – other writers.
Bookings are now open. For more details or to book go to https://www.retreatsforyou.co.uk/events/find-your-unique-writing-voice/
I have also joined forces with writers Alison May and Jeevani Charika (who also writes as Rhoda Baxter) to create Fiction Tutors- offering a wide range of in-person and online learning opportunities, priced for all budgets. Some are actually free.
You can find out all about us and the courses we offer here.
Manuscript Appraisals
I take a select number of private clients for manuscript appraisal and assistance. These would typically be an in depth written evaluation of all or part of a novel, novella or short story. I will also give one-to-one online discussion of the manuscript. Prices vary for this service, depending on the length of the work and the exact service required, but prices typically start about £100 for a short work or partial novel to £300 upwards for a full length novel.
I also do one-to-one mentoring which would typically include reading a section of submitted work and one or more zoom calls to discuss the work and how to move forward with it.
Workshops
I frequently run individual workshops, day long courses and give talks to writers and writing groups. Writing topics include plot and story structure for short stories and novels, locations and characters, dialogue, editing and the manuscript submission process. I also draw on my background in television to give sessions on how to work with media and I give technology tips for writers.
Workshops can be tailored to individual requirements. If you would like me to give a workshop, please contact me.
What people have said :
‘Your workshop was the highlight of the conference.’
‘Excellent value for money.’
‘Learned so much and had a great weekend’.
‘Fabulous. We learned so much. Highly recommend it.’
‘It was splendid. You have inspired me.’
‘You provided some very good ways forward for me, for which I am extremely grateful.’