Writing Magazine

The saying goes that “everyone has a story in them” and it’s the mission of Writing Magazine to help you get yours out. Brought to you by real experts who know what it takes to improve your writing or get published, this monthly magazine is a must-have for all writers. Whether you write fiction, poetry, drama, children’s books, non-fiction or anything else, each issue features tips, practical exercises and real-life advice, that will not only help you get all that creativity onto the paper but also, get your name and profile out into the industry. With writing masterclasses from professionals, industry news, events listings, competitions where you can submit your work for fantastic prizes and real paid writing opportunities, Writing Magazine has everything you need to hone and improve your talents.

WELCOME

Editing without tears • You’ve drafted a novel! Brilliant! But it’s a long way from being ready for a reader. Author James McCreet provides a systematic way to edit a finished novel or an early draft

Meet your readers! • Book PR is an essential element in getting your book in front of its readers – but how exactly does it work, and what can you do to make the most of it? As her debut novel is published, top-flight book PR Becky Hunter explains how publicity works – from the inside – and advises you how to create opportunities for exposure.

WRITER’S WORKSHOP: Point of view and voice • In part three of his series on character and voice , author and creative writing tutor Ian Ayris explores how you can use point of view and voice to really inhabit your characters so they come to life on the page

KEEPING IT REAL • Author, broadcaster and fitness teacher Tina Baker talks to Tina Jackson about creating her no-holds-barred domestic thrillers, representing working class lives, the way she weaves lived experience into her writing and what it was like to embark on a Creative Writing MA in her 50s

MAXIMUM SENTENCE • Criminal barrister turned million-selling author Helen Fields describes what her years in court have taught her about delivering a well-paced crime stor y, and what you can learn from her experience.

CATALYST FOR CHANGES • Bestselling author of female-lead fiction Lucy Diamond reveals how she retrofitted the prologue that sets up what happens in her new novel

HANNAH DOLBY • The debut author finally found the key to success when she realised that she – and her lead character – could be funny

SHELF LIFE • Laura Purcell, the author of acclaimed (and very spooky) gothic mysteries, talks us through the titles that made the most profound impression on her , and describes how she wrote her new novel, The Whispering Muse

L AUR A PURCELL

The world of writing • Ghostwriting, good company, making a mess... Miscellany and our readers’ news and views...

Get the write idea • How do particular circumstances shape what you write? Find out in these creative writing exercises to try right now.

FLAT PAC K FUN • This month, it’s time to get creative in a practical way, so roll up your sleeves and channel your inner engineer and builder to inspire your writing in these writing group exercises from Julie Phillips

Subscribers’ news

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The future’s . . . not all write? • Now ChatGPT has arrived, is AI going to put us all out of a job? Gary Dalkin looks at the way recent developments in artificial intelligence might impact on writers.

Create a writing retreat life • You want to go on a writing retreat but there just isn’t the money. Author Julia Bartz explores how to thread elements of enjoyment and community into your writing life, even if you don’t have the time or funds for an official...