BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-// - ECPv6.2.9//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk X-WR-CALDESC:Events for REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20230326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20231029T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T210000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20251023T145203Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T145203Z UID:1124-1771354800-1774386000@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Writing Romantic Fiction DESCRIPTION:A 5-week online course taught by award-winning author Alison May\, over 5 live and interactive sessions. \nThis course will run on Tuesdays from 17th February – 24th March 2026 from 19:00-21:00 GMT (please note there is no session on the 10th March) \n  \nCourse Overview: \nRomance is an eternally popular genre and right now it’s making waves with a new generation of readers. \nLearning to incorporate love and romance into your stories is beneficial to every writer\, whether you aspire to being the next Jilly Cooper\, Sarah J Maas or Emily Henry\, or whether you simply want to add emotional depth to your fiction. \nAlison May is an established romance author\, and experienced writing mentor\, and freelance editor. Across five zoom sessions she will share the skills and knowledge to create romance on the page and incorporate emotion and love stories in your fiction. \n  \nThis course will focus on: \n• Creating characters who are destined to fall in love (and who your readers will fall in love with) \n• Understanding the structure of the perfect romance plot – from meetcute\, to darkest moment to happy ever after \n• Learning about the genre\, the sub-genres\, the place of tropes and how best to meet\, and subvert\, your readers’ expectations \n• Creating conflict within\, and between\, your characters \n• Putting emotion on the page in your story – from passion\, to the initial sparks or romance to the despair of lost love – we’ll look at how to make that impactful and believable for your reader \n• Providing a chance to write\, hone and get feedback on the pitch for your romantic story \n  \nParticipants will benefit from: \n• Live Zoom Sessions: Enjoy five interactive live Zoom sessions where you’ll receive expert guidance from an established author and editor. Engage in real-time discussions\, Q&A sessions\, and personalised feedback to enhance your writing skills. \n• Sessions tailored to the needs of the group to give you skills you can use during the course and long afterwards \n• Writing Community: Connect with a community of like-minded writers during each live session. Share your progress\, exchange ideas\, and receive constructive feedback in a supportive online environment. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/writing-romantic-fiction/ CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WWM-wordpress-FEATURE-IMAGE.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251027 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251101 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20250604T130319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T130319Z UID:1071-1761523200-1761955199@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Write a Book That Sells DESCRIPTION:Janet will be leading a new retreat –  ‘Write a Book That Sells’ in October – from the 27th to the 31st at the lovely Retreats For You in the beautiful Devon countryside.\nThis course will help you lift your writing to the next level with an in-depth look at what readers and publishers want in a commercial novel\, and how to give them exactly that. Arrive on Monday and leave on Friday. There will be workshops every morning\, and afternoon\, writing time galore and most importantly lots of time to talk about the joys and hardship of being a writer with the only people who really understand – other writers. \nBookings are already being taken.. you can find more info or book here… \n\nhttps://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Janet-Gover-on-Writing-a-book-that-sells.mp4 URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/write-a-book-that-sells-2/ LOCATION:Retreats For You\, The Court\, The Square\, Sheepwash\, Beaworthy\, Devon\, EX21 5NE\, United Kingdom ORGANIZER;CN="Janet Gover":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251018 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251019 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20250604T135604Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T135917Z UID:1082-1760745600-1760831999@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Romance Writing Festival\, Bournemouth. DESCRIPTION:All three of us will be appearing at the Romance Writing Festival in Bournemouth. A must-do for all romance writers\, with talks\, walks\, panels\, workshops and networking events by the sea in Bournemouth. \nJeev will be speaking on a panel discussing the differences and overlaps between different genres of novel\, and discuss how authors cross genres. \nJanet will be hosting the Slay The Slushpile event – when attendees will have the chance to get live feedback on their work  from a panel of editors and industry experts. \nAs one of the event organisers\, Alison will be in attendance all weekend. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/romance-writing-festival-bournemouth/ LOCATION:Royal Bath Hotel\,\, Bath Rd\, Bournemouth\, BH1 2EW END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250920 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250921 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20250604T133707Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T140428Z UID:1076-1758326400-1758412799@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:South Warwickshire Literary Festival DESCRIPTION:Both Janet and Alison will be appearing at this Festival. \nTogether\, they’ll be talking about writing in collaboration\, and whether writing half a book is easier or harder than writing a whole book by yourself. \nAlison will also be presenting a romance writing workshop – looking at classic romance plot beats\, creating characters your readers will fall in love with and how to put deep emotion onto the page URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/south-warwickshire-literary-festival/ LOCATION:The Fold\, Spencer St\, Leamington Spa\, Warwickshire\, CV31 3N ORGANIZER;CN="South Warwickshire LitFest":MAILTO:southwarwickshirelitfest@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241119 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241124 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20231220T105501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T133853Z UID:933-1731974400-1732406399@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Writing Commercial Fiction DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re just starting out\, or already have stories out in the world\, this retreat will help you lift your writing to the next level with an in-depth look at what readers and publishers want in a commercial novel\, and how to give them exactly that. There will be workshops every morning\, and afternoon and writing time galore. Each person also gets to discuss submitted work one-to-one with Janet. \nInspiring setting in a 1600s thatched house in quaint North Devon village . Long plot walks for the taking. A cosy room with roaring fire for writerly discussions. All food\, snacks (and cake) included\, and a writing desk in every bedroom. \nLet Janet help you write the book you want to write – and help that book find the audience you both deserve. \nFind more information and make your booking –  HERE. \n  URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/write-a-book-that-sells/ LOCATION:Retreats For You\, The Court\, The Square\, Sheepwash\, Beaworthy\, Devon\, EX21 5NE\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Janet-RFY-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Janet Gover":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240927 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240930 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20231219T134435Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240812T103504Z UID:913-1727395200-1727654399@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Autumn Novel Writing Retreat DESCRIPTION:Starting a new book\, editing a finished one or stuck somewhere in the middle? Take your writing to a new level with a weekend dedicated entirely to writing\, under the guidance of two highly regarded tutors – both multi-published award-winning authors. \nArrive on Friday to meet the tutors and your fellow authors. There’s time to ask questions and share experiences in a welcoming and friendly environment. Saturday and Sunday feature workshops and tutorials on important writing topics\, with plenty of time to spend on your own writing. Each attendee will be invited to submit a sample of work for a detailed analysis and one-one-one discussion with our tutors to help you find your unique voice. \nFull price : £410. There is an early booking discount for bookings received before 1st April 2024 – the early booking price is £389.50.   \nPlease note this weekend is now SOLD OUT. Click here to register for the waiting list for cancellation spaces. \nFor more information:  info@fictiontutors.co.uk  URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/autumn-novel-writing-retreat/ LOCATION:Kings Court Hotel\, nr Stratford-Upon-Avon\, Kings Court\, Coughton\, Alcester\, B49 5QQ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Kings-Court-retreat.png ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240921T145000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240921T152500 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240109T150922Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240109T150922Z UID:952-1726930200-1726932300@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:How to submit work to agents and editors DESCRIPTION:Join Alison at South Warwickshire Literary Festival for this talk on submission and getting published. £10 or £18 to attend this session as part of the festival and also come along to Alison’s Starting Your Novel workshop. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/how-to-submit-work-to-agents-and-editors/ LOCATION:Victoria House\, Willes Road\, Royal Leamington Spa\, CV32 5PT\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="South Warwickshire LitFest":MAILTO:southwarwickshirelitfest@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240921T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240921T113000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240109T150117Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240109T150117Z UID:946-1726912800-1726918200@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Starting Your Novel DESCRIPTION:Join Alison for this 90 minute workshop at South Warwickshire Literary Festival \nTickets are £18 for this workshop plus access to the day long festival\, including Alison’s talk on Submitting to an Agent or Editor. \nTickets here: https://www.southwarwickshireliteraryfestival.com/ URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/starting-your-novel/ LOCATION:Victoria House\, Willes Road\, Royal Leamington Spa\, CV32 5PT\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="South Warwickshire LitFest":MAILTO:southwarwickshirelitfest@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240916 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240921 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240216T152842Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240216T152946Z UID:954-1726444800-1726876799@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Break Through Your Novel Block DESCRIPTION:If writing your novel sometimes feels like you’ve hit a wall\, then this retreat is for you. Maybe you feel stuck\, but you’re determined to carry on. Maybe you’re so overwhelmed that you’re wondering if you want to carry on at all. Maybe you want some strategies for working through the block the next time you hit a sticky patch with your writing. If any of those sound familiar\, then this retreat\, which is completely tailored to the needs to of the writers attending\, is for you. \nArrive Monday\, leave Friday. Workshops and tutorials throughout the week. Writing time galore! Own cosy room\, with lovely bedding\, towels\, tea and coffee making facilities\, and writing desk in every room. All food and hot drinks\, snacks\, cake (!)\, and wine at supper\, provided. Gorgeous 1600s thatched house in quaint North Devon village with mini home gym\, great broadband and fabulous beds. No chores! Just reams of me-time\, countryside walks and spending time in like-minded company. \nTutor – Alison May \nCost –  £719 per person (supplements for ensuite bedrooms\, please ask)\, includes a one-to-one and follow up \nMore info & booking URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/break-through-your-novel-block/ LOCATION:Retreats For You\, The Court\, The Square\, Sheepwash\, Beaworthy\, Devon\, EX21 5NE\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Starting-Your-Novel-with-Alison-May.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240709T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240709T110000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240417T091746Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240417T091746Z UID:1001-1720519200-1720522800@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:SoA At Home - Professional Development - Canva Tips for Authors DESCRIPTION:Authors are often expected to make their own marketing graphics (especially once the launch buzz is over). Canva is a graphic design program aimed at complete beginners. It is very powerful\, but can be overwhelming. \nJoin SoA Member Jeevani Charika as she leads this talk aiming to show you how to make scroll-stopping animations and graphics so that you can advertise your book on social media. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Sophia A Jackson – Head of Events\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Jeevani Charika (60 mins)\nComfort break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience – moderated by Sophia A Jackson\, SoA (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWho is this session for?\nThe session is for authors who have used Canva before for static posts and want to know how to take their use of the app to the next level. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nThis session will cover: \n\nAn introduction to the things you can make in Canva – from social media posts to bookmarks and other merch\nA step-by-step tutorial on how to make a short\, animated ad\nA step-by-step tutorial on how to make an animated carousel showing off all your books\nQ&A so that you can ask all your Canva related questions\n\n  \nSend us your questions in advance\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Sophia A Jackson on SJackson@societyofauthors.org with ‘Canva tips for authors’ in the subject header. We will prioritise questions sent in advance and answer as many as we can from the audience on the day. \nThis event is free\, but you have to register here. (scroll to the bottom of the page for registration link) URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/soa-at-home-professional-development-canva-tips-for-authors/ CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Canva-tips-for-authors.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240630 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240701 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240417T092110Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240417T092110Z UID:1005-1719705600-1719791999@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Jericho Writers London Festival of Writing - Jeevani Charika - Canva for Authors DESCRIPTION:Jeev will be speaking at the Jericho Writers conference in London.  You can find out more about the London Festival of Writing from their website here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/jericho-writers-london-festival-of-writing-jeevani-charika-canva-for-authors/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240417T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240417T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20240417T090946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240417T090946Z UID:995-1713340800-1713373200@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Afternoon tea with Anna Ganley - Jeev will be hosting the Q&A with the SoA's new chief executive DESCRIPTION:Grab a cuppa and get to know the incoming Chief Executive of the Society of Authors\, Anna Ganley. Anna will be in conversation with Jeevani Charika\, SoA member and Chair of the SoA’s Authors North group. \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Jeevani Charika (2 mins)\nIntroduction to Anna Ganley and a glimpse into her routine (15-25 mins)\nQ&A with audience (10-15 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (3 mins)\n\n  \nThis event is free\, but you need to register here. \n  URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/afternoon-tea-with-anna-ganley-jeev-will-be-hosting-the-qa-with-the-soas-new-chief-executive/ CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Afternoon-Tea-with-Anna-Ganley.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231119T101500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231119T160000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230925T143639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T143738Z UID:850-1700388900-1700409600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Dark Side Light Side Festival DESCRIPTION:Ally/Alison will be appearing at the Dark Side Light Side Festival in Alcester to discuss romcoms. The festival runs from 10.15am to 4pm. The romcom panel will be at 2pm. Tickets free but you can reserve a place in advance here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/dark-side-light-side-festival/ LOCATION:Alcester War Memorial Town Hall\, Henley Street\, Alcester\, B49 5QX CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/dark-side-light-side-feature.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231114T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231114T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T175834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T175834Z UID:838-1699984800-1699997400@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online workshops: The Business of Publishing and Agent-Hunting DESCRIPTION:The Business of Publishing is a whistle-stop tour of the basics of the publishing industry. We’ll look at pros and cons of self-publishing vs the traditional route. We’ll talk about what a publisher is actually buying when they acquire a book and we’ll talk about when not to sign on the dotted line. Agent-Hunting is for anyone considering the traditional path and hoping for agent representation. We’ll look at how to decide which agents to submit to and how to put together the strongest possible submission pack. \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-the-business-of-publishing-and-agent-hunting/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/7-e1692293068867.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231107T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231107T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T175412Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T175412Z UID:836-1699380000-1699392600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online Workshops: Editing Your Novel and Common First Draft Problems DESCRIPTION:Editing Your Novel will help you work out your process for what comes next after you’ve finished your first draft. Everyone agrees that editing is vital – this workshop will actually tell you how to do it. Common First Draft Problems is all about the issues that come up time and time again in first drafts – saggy middles\, confusing openings\, rushed endings and all points in between – along with lots of suggestions for how to tackle those challenges. \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-editing-your-novel-and-common-first-draft-problems/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/6-e1692292958417.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231102T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231102T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230925T142944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T142944Z UID:846-1698949800-1698957000@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Christmas with Hera Books DESCRIPTION:Kiley Dunbar and Ally Sinclair (aka Alison May) talk to Keshini Naidoo about their latest books The Gingerbread Christmas Village and The Christmas Season. \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/christmas-with-hera-books/ LOCATION:Blackwells\, Manchester\, 146 Oxford Road\, Manchester\, M13 9GP\, United Kingdom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/christmas-with-hera-books.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231031T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231031T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T174932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T174932Z UID:834-1698775200-1698787800@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online Workshops: Theme and The Dreaded Synopsis DESCRIPTION:Theme will look at how to get to the heart of what you’re writing about and identify your themes\, and then we’ll discuss how to use that knowledge to deepen and improve your story. The Dreaded Synopsis will take the terror away from writing a synopsis. Well some of the terror anyway. Alison actually quite likes writing a synopsis and she has the tools and the determination to try to convert you. \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-theme-and-the-dreaded-synopsis/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/5-e1692292764235.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231024T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231024T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T174455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T174455Z UID:832-1698170400-1698183000@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online workshops: Writing with Emotion and Show Don't Tell DESCRIPTION:Writing with Emotion is all about how to put emotion on the page in a way that grabs your reader’s attention and makes them laugh\, cry and fall in love with your story. Show\, Don’t Tell is the writing advice that just won’t die! This workshop is all about what it actually means and how to put the idea into practice in your novel \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-writing-with-emotion-and-show-dont-tell/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/4-e1692292670138.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231017T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231017T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T173832Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T173940Z UID:830-1697565600-1697578200@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online Workshops: Setting & World-building and Finding Your Voice DESCRIPTION:Setting & World-Building will explore ways of communicating the world of your novel to your reader and will look at how setting influences plot and character throughout a story. Finding Your Voice is all about focusing on who you are as a writer. What are your strengths and how can you make the most of them? And how can you recognise your weaknesses without losing your confidence? \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-setting-world-building-and-finding-your-voice/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/3-e1692292522587.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231010T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231010T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T173214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T173214Z UID:828-1696960800-1696973400@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online Workshops: Plot & Story Structure and Planning a Novel DESCRIPTION:Plot & Story Structure will take you through developing your story ideas\, understanding the structure of a novel and identifying the key elements in your plot. Planning a Novel is particularly aimed at writers who don’t naturally plan. It will be packed full of ideas and suggestions to how to find a balance between keeping things creative and not losing the plot entirely! \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBook here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-plot-story-structure-and-planning-a-novel/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2-e1692292294790.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231006T153000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231008T153000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230503T155428Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230906T144831Z UID:570-1696606200-1696779000@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Autumn Novel Writing Weekend DESCRIPTION:Starting a new book\, editing a finished one or stuck somewhere in the middle? Take your writing to a new level with a weekend dedicated entirely to writing\, under the guidance of two highly regarded tutors – both multi-published award-winning authors. \nArrive on Friday to meet the tutors and your fellow authors. There’s time to ask questions and share experiences in a welcoming and friendly environment. Saturday and Sunday feature workshops and tutorials on important writing topics\, with plenty of time to spend on your own writing. Each attendee will be invited to submit a sample of work for a detailed analysis and one-one-one discussion with our tutors to help you find your unique voice. \nWe’ll share our top tips for writing\, editing and selling your work. Tell us what you want to know. Workshops will be tailored to the attendees needs. Details of workshops will be provided closer to the date\, but they will include important topics such as pace and plot\, characterisation and writing that dreaded synopsis. \nOur retreats are all-inclusive allowing you to focus on your writing. Emerge inspired and renewed with fresh insights into the writing process and your writing career. \nThe Retreat: \nArrive late afternoon on Friday for a welcome dinner and a chance to meet everyone. Saturday and Sunday morning will be a mix of tutored workshops\, one-on-one meetings with tutors and free time to concentrate on your writing. The retreat ends on Sunday afternoon with a session to help you take the lessons\, energy and inspiration with you when you return home. \nBring your laptop (or whatever you write on) and your work in progress. Also bring your questions and problems. There’s much work to do and much fun to be had as well. Dress however you wish and join the group in the evenings for informal discussions on the writing life. \nThe Venue: \nSet in Tudor-style farmhouse built in the 1500s\, Kings Court Hotel is in the heart of Shakespeare country\, in the village of Kings Coughton\, seven miles outside Stratford-upon-Avon. It features large en-suite rooms\, and a bright airy conference centre\, with plenty of places to sit and write and plenty of parking. Free wireless internet is available. Wheelchair accessible rooms are available. \nThe nearest train station is Stratford-Upon-Avon and there is easy road access from the M40. Find out more at: http://www.kingscourthotel.co.uk/ \nThe Cost: \nThe price for the retreat is £390. A deposit of £80 per retreat is to be paid at the time of booking. The balance is to be paid 6 weeks prior to the date of the retreat. Bookings close 6 weeks prior to the date of the retreat. \n**NOTE: there are still a couple of places available. Please contact us as soon as possible to reserve one.  \nAttendees cancelling more than 8 weeks in advance will receive a full refund of all money paid. There can be no refund if an attendee cancels less than 8 weeks before the retreat\, unless the organisers are able to fill the place. If a course is cancelled\, all money will be refunded. \nWhat people said last time: \n‘Loved it! Haven’t felt so inspired in a long time. Yay!’ \n‘The one to one was priceless.’ \n‘Not only very useful\, but the tutors made it entertaining and fun.’ \n\n\n\n\nBooking Form AM F2F\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Name\n \n \n \n \n Name \n\n \n \n \n First \n\n \n First \n \n \n Last \n\n \n Last \n \n\n\n \n \n\n\n Email\n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Phone\n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Please tell us about your writing experience\n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Is there anything in particular you would like to cover during this course?\n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Do you have any specific learning or accessibility needs\, or specific dietary requirements you would like us to take into account?\n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n For face to face courses only\, please provide an emergency contact name and telephone number.\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n If you are human\, leave this field blank. \n \n \n \n\nSubmit\n\n\n\n\n\nΔ URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/autumn-novel-writing-weekend/ LOCATION:Kings Court Hotel\, nr Stratford-Upon-Avon\, Kings Court\, Coughton\, Alcester\, B49 5QQ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/twitter-image-e1683129254362.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231004T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231207T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230927T100815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230927T101051Z UID:885-1696406400-1701968400@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Canva for Authors - part of The Writing Gals online conference DESCRIPTION:Do you want to know how to use Canva to make marketing images for your book? You can make nice looking flat lays and nifty animations – all using Canva Free. \nCome along to my talk at The Writing Gals conference* and find out how. \nAbout the conference: \nLearn from The Writing Gals how to write and sell romance! We will have live panels\, writing sprints\, and recorded classes.\nTeachable classes will be available through Feb. 8\, 2024! \n*Affiliate link – it won’t cost you anything extra. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/canva-for-authors-part-of-the-writing-gals-online-conference/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Canva-for-authors.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20231003T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231003T213000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230817T170443Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230925T142136Z UID:816-1696356000-1696368600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Online Workshops: Creating Character and Conflict DESCRIPTION:Creating Character will take you through creating and developing engaging characters for your novel. Conflict will explain what on earth conflict is and why novelists bang on about it so much\, and help you find the conflict in your story. \nThese are standalone workshops which you can book individually – you don’t even  have to do both the sessions in one evening – or you can pick and mix from the full set of 14 workshops running over 7 weeks to build your own bespoke novel writing course\, or you can book all 14 and claim a discount. All the workshops are led by Alison. \n \nBOOK NOW URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/online-workshops-creating-character-and-conflict/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/1-e1692292031462.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230908T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230911T120000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230503T152234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230608T145919Z UID:563-1694181600-1694433600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Tutor supported retreat with Alison DESCRIPTION:This will be a tutor-supported retreat. That means that\, as well as having lots of time to write\, you’ll get an individual one to one session with Alison May to discuss your work in progress and she’ll be available throughout the weekend to brainstorm\, offer a sounding board and answer questions about writing and publishing. \nThis is a small group retreat and it’s suitable for anyone trying to write a novel\, whether you’re just starting or battling with edits. Alison will be there to help and support you. \nBookings and more info here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/tutor-supported-retreat-with-alison/ LOCATION:Little Book Retreats\, South Yorkshire\, Little Book Retreats\, Fenwick Lane\, Doncaster\, South Yorkshire\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/lbr-retreat-carousel-graphic-Presentation-169-e1683897689452.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230902T093000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230902T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230710T154417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230710T160749Z UID:796-1693647000-1693674000@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Writing Workshop with Katie Fforde DESCRIPTION:Best-selling author Katie Fforde is hosting this Writing Workshop at her home in Rodborough\, along with fellow writing experts Janet Gover and Alison May. \nDuring the day\, students will be divided into small groups\, each of whom will have a session with each tutor. There will be plenty of time for questions and general mixing. It will be an inspiring day that will send everyone away full of confidence and ideas. \nThe workshop runs from 9.30am until 5pm and includes a two-course lunch with wine\, refreshments throughout the day including pastries from Salt Bakehouse\, and a Katie Fforde goodie bag. \nProceeds from the day will go to the Stroud Valleys Project. \nCost: £180 per person (over 18s only). Details and booking here  URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/writing-workshop-with-katie-fforde/ LOCATION:At Home with Katie Fforde\, Rodburgh\, Stroud CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-Writing-workshop.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230813T111000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230813T121000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230609T134159Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230609T134159Z UID:782-1691925000-1691928600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Roadmap to Rural Romance DESCRIPTION:A panel discussion led by Rachael Donovan\, Publisher (HQ Fiction\, Mira & Escape)\, Harper Collins Australia. Featuring award winning authors Janet Gover and Penelope Janu. \nRural romance has a strong and devoted following. Is it the cowboys\, the strong women\, the beautiful landscapes\, the family drama or all of those? \nAs part of the Romance Writers of Australia annual conference (August 11-13)\, this panel will discuss the key elements of rural romantic fiction. This panel is open to anyone attending the conference. \nConference details and bookings are here. \nNote: Janet will also be attending the ARRA book signing event on Saturday August 12th at 5.50 pm. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/roadmap-to-rural-romance/ LOCATION:Sofitel Sydney Wentworth\, Phillip St\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2000\, Australia CATEGORIES:Face to face ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/RWA-Sydney.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Janet Gover":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230707T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230707T110000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230620T202711Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230620T202913Z UID:787-1688724000-1688727600@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Ten things to think about before you sign your first contract DESCRIPTION:  \nOn the 7th of July 2023\, I will be over at I Am In Print\, talking about Ten Things to Think about before you Sign Your First (or next) Contract (using the Rhoda Baxter pen name). \nBeing a published author involves more than just writing; understanding the business side of today’s publishing world is all important too. During this session\, I will encourage you to think of your novel as your Intellectual Property (IP)\, and publishers and agents as your business partners. As a writer I have been tempted to sign contracts in the past without being fully prepared and\, now armed with lots of experience working with IP\, I’m here to help you ask the right questions before you sign a contract of your own. \nI will be putting together a more detailed course on this topic. If you’re not part of the I Am In Print membership and are interested in this topic\, sign up to my newsletter and get the Contracts Checklist. That way you’ll be the first to find out when the course is ready. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/ten-things-to-think-about-before-you-sign-your-first-contract/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Rhoda-Baxter-Ten-things-to-know-before-you-sign-your-contract-Square.png ORGANIZER;CN="Jeevani Charika":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230501T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250501T080000 DTSTAMP:20260417T152917 CREATED:20230503T154334Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230519T104056Z UID:566-1682928000-1746086400@fictiontutors.co.uk SUMMARY:Rediscover Your Creativity and Find Your Voice DESCRIPTION:Alison says: ‘When I moved from writing for pleasure to writing as my career I was incredibly excited. It was something I had dreamed of for years so achieving that was genuinely brilliant. \nBut… over time I realised that something had changed. Writing was starting to feel like a chore. I was facing writers’ block\, which I’d never experienced before\, and I was struggling to  remember who I wanted to be as an author. Somewhere along the road I’d fallen out of love with writing.’ \nThis course is for anyone who finds that story even a little bit familiar. Whether you’re published or unpublished\, whether you’ve been writing for 1 year or 20\, we can all have moments when we lose our sense of joy. This course is designed to help you get that back. \nThis course is designed to be studied at your own pace. There is no direct tutor support – everything you need is within the course for you to work on whenever suits you. You will have access to the video tutorials and downloads for 1 year from the date of registration. This course was previously offered in 2022 as part of the Romance Writers of Australia online learning programme. \nBook Here. URL:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/event/rediscover-your-creativity-and-find-your-voice/ LOCATION:online CATEGORIES:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fictiontutors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/creativity-course-feature-image-e1683898340529.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Alison May":MAILTO:info@fictiontutors.co.uk END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR