This masterclass is suitable for writers of fiction, memoir and narrative nonfiction, and for projects at any stage, from first ideas to full drafts.
Have you got an idea for a story, but find yourself unsure of how to turn it into a book? Or have you written your way through part of a manuscript, but found yourself drifting or stuck? Perhaps you’ve got a manuscript that’s too long, and you’re faced with deciding what to keep and what to cut? If so, you aren’t alone – all of these hurdles are so common that you’d be hard pressed to find a published writer who hasn’t experienced at least one of them.
This course is designed to help you navigate any or all of these challenges, to explore effective methods of plotting and storytelling, and, ultimately, to help you to turn your story into a narrative with momentum and a satisfying arc.
We’ll look at narrative structure, considering where to begin and end a story. We’ll explore character development arcs, and techniques for writing impactful scenes at key moments. You’ll be encouraged to use your own subconscious knowledge of how narrative works, and to write a book you’d also love to read.
The writing techniques offered in this course will apply to all types of fiction and narrative nonfiction and can be applied to styles from the most lyrical slow-build book to the most action-packed.
You are welcome to join us, whether you have a complete novel you’d like help in shaping, or you’re wondering where to begin. Either way, you should come away with skills to help you make those ket decisions in creating a book that’s as intriguing to begin as it is satisfying to finish.
Session Outline
- Creating hooky openings and satisfying endings
- Moving a character through a development arc
- How to keep momentum and avoid the notorious saggy middle
- Creating impactful plot points and setting them up to land effectively
- How to build suspense, conflict and high stakes — even in a subtle or slow-paced novel
- Plus the chance to ask questions about any sticky places in your plot
- You’ll also have the opportunity to book a follow-up one-to-one session with Anna at half the usual rate if you’d like.
Learning online
This Live Online workshop will take place on Zoom, so you will need to have access to the internet. You will receive the Zoom link for the event via email the evening before the event.
This event will be recorded for the purpose of sending to ticket holders who can’t make the event, or who miss a portion of the masterclass, or who need the recording as part of their access needs.
If you do not receive an invitation link, or if you have any other questions, please contact us at: info@londonlitlab.co.uk.
