The fundamentals of fiction with Tim Lott

It's a long road from starting a novel to getting it published - check you're heading the right way with someone who's been there. Join Whitbread Prize-winning novelist Tim Lott for this entertaining and accessible introduction to the novel-writing process, from learning the basics of character and dialogue to selling your completed work to a publisher.

The weekend provides a no-nonsense overview of the craft of writing a novel, covering the fundamentals of planning and writing– and eventually selling – fictional stories. Combining a wealth of practical creative tips and realistic advice on publishing, it's the perfect opportunity for aspiring writers to get honest insight from an experienced author in an inclusive, informal environment.

Course description

This masterclass offers a unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of constructing fictional stories from award-winning author Tim Lott, from developing characters and crafting realistic dialogue, to maintaining momentum and motivation. The course also covers how writers can progress to publishing their completed manuscript. Over two days, this course will examine:

• The psychology of writing
• Planning and structure
• Dialogue
• Character
• Plot vs story
• A sense of place and time
• Next steps and selling your novel

This course is for you if…

This course is appropriate for all levels of experience, but will be of particular benefit to those starting out on their first novel, or struggling with a work in progress.

Tutor profile

Tim Lott is an award-winning novelist, journalist, critic and creative writing tutor. His first book, memoir The Scent of Dried Roses, was published in 1996. His first novel White City Blue, published in 1999, won the Whitbread First Novel Award, and other works include Rumours of a Hurricane (2002), The Love Secrets of Don Juan (2003), the Seymour Tapes (2005) and young adult novel Fearless (2007). His latest novel is Under the Same Stars.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website