In January 2025 I am running two new courses, the first is for those just starting, or completely new to writing a novel, and it's called Make Your Novel Grow in Five Weeks.

On this course we will look at all the core elements of novel writing: plot, structure, character, point of view and descriptive writing. You will start writing your novel, understand how to create plot, devise drama and motivate characters going forward. By the end of the course you will have a clear plan of where to go next. We will also talk about how to publish your work, approach agents, write a synopsis and market your work.

There will be another course for those who have already written a novel, or who have already mastered the basics of prose novel writing, for example on an MA in Creative Writing, but who still need to develop, finish, edit or polish their novel. This course is called Make Your Novel Great in Five Weeks. 

On this course we will talk about how to really make your novel stand out, particularly how to build tension and urgency in the plot, how to ensure the characters are gripping and fully motivated, make sure your writing style is engaging and how to find an ending that works for the story and for readers. We will talk a lot about the importance of rigorous structure and subtext on this course, You will end the course with a better draft of your work and a sense of where to go next in terms of publishing the work.

In advance of both courses I'd like students to send me some details about yourself, your writing and your ambitions for your novel. For the advanced course I'd like you to also send me 1000 words of prose from the novel, and a 500 word synopsis before the course starts.

The course is taught by me, Helen Cross, an award-winning novelist, short story writer and audio dramatist (www.helencross.net). I have written four novels including My Summer of Love which became a BAFTA Award-winning film starring Emily Blunt and Spilt Milk Black Coffee, also optioned for movie development.

Course Content:

We will look at how novels work, consider how to structure the arc of a novel-length story, learn how to sustain tension in plot, how to build convincing characters with deep engaging motivations, and explore how to write convincing dialogue. We will also consider how the publishing industry works and share how to engage with literary and movie agents to market and sell your novel.

Each week we will consider a different aspect of novel writing and there will be set homework to push you forward before the next class. Students with be encouraged to share their work with the group.

Prior to the class you will be sent a Reading List of novels to inspire and educate you about the form. We will discuss and learn from these novels in the class.

'I've really enjoyed the class and have come away with a lot of inspiration and some fantastic tips that I will definitely try to incorporate into my writing' Participant on the February 2024 course.

'It’s been a great little course. I’ve got a lot out of it' Participant on the February 2024 course

‘Thanks for an excellent course. One of the things I found most valuable was the actual tips on the craft of writing and from someone who is actively making a living writing. A lot of courses talk about setting, character and the mechanics but few look at your work and make practical suggestions for improvement. So thank you very much I really appreciated your time. ‘ Participant on the February 2024 course

‘I really enjoyed your input and exercises, and I greatly appreciated your enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge.’ Participant on the February 2024 course

'I found the course very inspirational. Due to the format it also got me writing from the get-go, so by the time the course was finished I had completed my 1st draft.' Participant on a September 2023 course.

'A really helpful, informative, efficient, fun and exciting course!' Participant on a February 2023 course.