…or any story really.
As you may have already discovered, when writing a novel, novella or short story, the structure can be tough to get right. It’s wonderful when an unfolding story has tension and suspense. At the same time, structure must stem from character. If a protagonist acts out-of-character for the sake of a twist in the plot, that twist will be less effective.
In this ultra-friendly and supportive workshop we will explore methods for using character to develop storyline. At a relaxed, welcoming space in beautiful Cornwall, we will learn how writers use protagonists’ blind spots to create that all important ‘page-turner’ effect.
(Cornwall too far? Contact me for a one-to-one of this exceptionally useful workshop online.)
The Five Questions
There are five really useful questions we can ask ourselves in using character as the launching-off point for developing plot: what is the trait each of our main characters most admires; what is the trait they most despise; what is each character’s greatest fear; what is their greatest strength, and finally, what is their persona (how does each character project themselves publicly?) From these five questions, structure in the form of obstacles and turning-points unfolds organically.
Through exercises and playing, from the above five questions, workshop participants will tweak, develop or revise a blueprint for their individual fiction projects, discovering how fun this can be!
Upcoming dates of this one-off, four-hour workshop are:
Wednesday 9th September, 2026, 1230-1630, St Austell Library, £30.00
Monday 21st September, 2026, 1230-1630, Camborne Library, £30.00
Wednesday 23rd September, 2026, 1230-1630, St Austell Library, £30.00
Saturday 17th October, 2026, 1300-1700, Upstairs at The Old Alehouse, Truro, £45.00
How to Structure a Novel, (or any story really…) is ideal for anyone about to embark upon or in the process of revising a novel, novella or short story, (or play, or screenplay!) It has been the greatest joy to see my adult students go from not writing at all outside of class to becoming published, winning competitions, and going on to study at MA level. Contact me with questions and to book.
Gail Owen 