Romance novels, love stories and women's fiction: A writing class with Adele Parks

By The Guardian Masterclasses

Date and time

Monday, January 25, 2016 · 6:30 - 9:30pm GMT

Location

The Guardian

Kings Place 90 York Way London N1 9GU United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

Description

Learn how to win the hearts of readers and publishers at this inspiring evening class with Adele Parks, one of the biggest-selling women’s fiction writers in the UK

From classics such as Pride and Prejudice to recent publishing sensations like Twilight, romantic fiction has always been one of the most popular literary genres. If you want to learn how to make the genre as fun to write as it is to read, don’t miss out on this fabulous evening class with Adele Parks, one of the biggest-selling women’s fiction writers in the UK.

Suitable for writers of all levels, this three-hour masterclass will explore the key components of the romantic fiction genre. You’ll learn about the role of heroes and heroines in both classic and modern literature. Plus, you’ll receive advice on structuring your own novel, as well as how to balance a great story with the commercial expectations of the market. Whether you want to write tales of heartbreak or happy endings, book your place now – and learn how to write a romance novel that readers and publishers will fall in love with.

Content

  • The canon of romantic fiction – from Romantic writing to chick lit and beyond
  • The role of classic and modern heroes and heroines
  • Scrutinising your own characters – are they real, robust and romantic enough to carry a romance novel?
  • Using language, music and imagery to find inspiration for your own writing
  • Getting the balance right between idealism and realism
  • The all-important ending – happily ever after or desperately tragic?
  • Advice on the publishing landscape and the market for romantic fiction
  • Practical writing exercises – a chance to scrutinise your own story and characters
  • Q&A – an invaluable opportunity to pick the brains of one of the UK’s most popular novelists

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Speaker profile

Adele Parks has published 15 novels in 15 years, all of which have been bestsellers. Her books include Larger Than Life, Spare Brides and If You Go Away. In 2010, Adele was one of the judges for the Costa Book Awards. Find her on Twitter here.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website

Organized by

Welcome to Guardian Masterclasses – a unique programme of learning embedded within one of the world's most forward-thinking media organisations.

We offer a broad range of short and long courses across a variety of disciplines from creative writing, journalism, photography and design, film and digital media, music and cultural appreciation.

Harnessing the expertise and specialisms within the organisation, our courses are led by first class and award winning guardian professionals whilst also drawing on the skills and expertise of other leading figures at the forefront of the creative and digital industries.

The programme is aimed at anyone interested in personal or professional development whether that be refining your skills, focusing your ambition or simply broadening your mind and gaining inspiration.

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