The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 5 - NWS Alumni

Since it began, The New Writers' Scheme has launched the writing careers of many romantic novelists. NWS alumni's books are stocked in bookshops and libraries worldwide, they are shortlisted for and win awards and feature in the best seller lists.


Do you recognise any of these writers?

They are all NWS alumni.





Left: RNA Winter party 2010.




In this final part of the series we meet four NWS alumni who tell us about their time in the NWS. A warm welcome to Katie Fforde, Jan Jones, Jean Fullerton and Nell Dixon.


Katie FForde, the RNA's President, found her own unique voice with the help of the NWS.

Katie, tell us about your journey through the New Writers Scheme? How long were you a member? Did the sort of novels you write change while you were in the NWS?

I was a member of the New Writers' Scheme for a long time. It was more generous in those days and you could miss delivering a book for a year if you needed to. All the time I was part of the scheme I was aiming for Mills and Boon. Elizabeth Harrison, who organised the scheme when I first joined told me I wasn't a Mills and Boon writer. Alas, in spite of my best efforts, she was right!

When you started it, did you ever envisage you would be where you are today?

I never, ever envisaged I'd be where I am today. Not that I'm ever quite sure where that is! I just wanted to be published.

What did you learn from the NWS?

I learnt an awful lot from the NWS and the RNA in general. I learned you have to persevere, that no part of a book is 'good enough' it all has to be your very best writing, and that you need to keep the pages turning.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

I think my advice is the same as what I learned from the NWS and the RNA. ie, don't give up, never be slapdash, and make sure your strong plot is turning the pages. Don't be self-indulged. If it doesn't further the plot, cut it out, OR, if you love the scene, make it further the plot.


To find out more about Katie's work visit her website at http://katiefforde.com/




Jan Jones writes short stories and serials as well as novels. She was shortlisted for the RNA Love Story of the Year Award 2011 and the Best Historical Romance award at the Festival of Romance 2011.

Jan, tell us about your journey through the New Writers Scheme? How long were you a member? Did the sort of novels you write change while you were in the NWS?

I joined for the first time in 1987 - in those days it was still possible to join in July for half fees and have your mss read the same year! I got a second read, but no take up.

I submitted for the next two or three years before lack of money and an expanding family made writing novels impossible for a while. However, the critique experience had really woken me up to how much difference editing and polishing can make to a script, so when I moved on to short stories I was in a much stronger position as a writer.

Over the next few years I had lots of stories published, but when my main magazine outlet folded, I saw it as a sign to concentrate on novel writing again. I rejoined the RNA in the mid 1990s, submitting contemporaries, regencies, then contemporaries again. Stage by Stage - my debut novel - was finally published in 2005.

When you started out, did you ever envisage you would be where you are today?

Not at all.

Do you think you would be where you are now if you'd never become a member of the NWS?

Goodness, no. Without the support, the passing on of expertise, the friendships, the sheer generosity of everyone in the RNA, it would all have taken much longer. There is also the fact that I met and pitched to my first publisher at an RNA Conference!

What did you learn from the NWS?

I learnt the value of friendly, constructive, impartial criticism. You might not agree with it, but the very fact that someone has highlighted a problem means you need to look at it and decide why it has been picked up on.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Easy - get ready to enjoy yourself! Be prepared to listen and learn and make friends - and also to give back wherever possible. Everyone has areas of expertise that can be of use to someone. The single most useful thing I ever did was to go to my first conference. The joy of spending a weekend with people just like me has never left me. It's why I now run them!


To find out more about Jan's writing visit her website at
http://www.jan-jones.co.uk/




Jean Fullerton writes historical romances set in London. She was shortlisted for the 2010 Romantic Novel of the Year Award and recently won the Festival of Romance's Readers Award for the Best Historical Read 2011.

Jean, tell us about your journey through the New Writers Scheme? How long were you a member? Did the sort of novels you write change while you were in the NWS?

I started writing after I was sent on a stress management course and the tutor advised us to take up a hobby. As a life-long reader of all types of historical fiction I thought I’d have a bash at writing a story. Just for fun, you know. Nothing serious!

Anyhow, I sketched out a rough plot on a sheet of A4 and opened my laptop on the kitchen table and typed Chapter One. After just a dozen or so pages the story just seemed to pour out as if someone had shaken up a bottle of cola and undone the top.

I finished that book in about four months then I started another. Again the story flowed. Of course, I had no idea about technique or formatting, I learnt that later, I was just telling the story.

I’d written three books before I discovered the RNA. I joined the New Writers Scheme in 2003 and sent in my second novel. It was through the NWS that I learnt the craft of writing a publishable novel. I was a member of the scheme for four years and had written 10 books before I finally wrote No Cure for Love which won the Harry Bowling Prize in 2006.

Although the period I write has moved forward to the 19th and mid-20th century I have always written Historical so the type of novel I write didn’t change because of the NWS, but the way I write them certainly has. The NWS helped me perfect technical issues such as point of view, showing not telling, dialogue and pace. It also helped me develop my narrative voice and understand story structure.

When you started it, did you ever envisage you would be where you are today?

I had no idea I could write let alone become a published author on my third contract with an international publisher. I’m dyslexic and at school English lessons were torture. The thought of actual earning my living by the written word seemed ludicrous, so as soon as I could, I dropped it as a subject. I only learnt to touch type last year. But, really although I’ve come a long way, no writer can rest easy because you’re only as good as your next book.

What did you learn from the NWS?

I’ve learnt a great deal of things from the NWS about plotting, style, dialogue and characterisation but I think the most valuable lesson it taught me was how to be edited. Someone once said ‘No book is written it’s re-written’ and that is so true. I don’t complete my first draft and send it to the printers, it goes through an extensive editing process, which often involves adding in, taking out or re-writing scenes. The NWS report is very like an editor’s line by line editorial notes and it helps you learn the professional discipline of reworking your story until it is the best it can be.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Join, join, join NOW! It is tougher now than ever to get published, but you only have to look at the number who graduate from the scheme and achieve publication each year, to realise being part of the NWS massively increases your chances.


To find out more about Jean's work visit her website at http://www.jeanfullerton.com/


Nell Dixon writes warm-hearted contemporary romances. She won the RNA's Romance Prize in 2007 and Love Story of the Year in 2010.

Tell us about your journey through the New Writers Scheme? How long were you a member? Did the sort of novels you write change while you were in the NWS?

I was a member for three years. I had two full novels and one partial go through the scheme. All of those books have since gone on to sell to publishers. Originally, I was aiming for Mills and Boon's romance line but realised my stories are a bit quirky and too richly populated to meet the readers expectations for that line. Now I write everything from short novellas for a dedicated sweet romance publisher to longer contemporary romances for my mainstream publishers with a dash of humour and a hint of suspense.

When you started it, did you ever envisage you would be where you are today?

No, I just wanted to be published. I didn't give any thought to what would happen afterwards.

What did you learn from the NWS?

I learned about adding emotion and conflict to my work. I learned to make my endings as strong as my beginnings and it gave me deadlines and my first taste of feedback in a constructive way.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

For me it was a big step, I was investing money I didn't really have and making a proper commitment to becoming a writer. To get the most from the NWS you need to be aware of the dedication you need to finish a book, and how you'll feel having someone else comment on your work. If you dream of becoming a published author, are willing to work and love to write then go for it. You won't regret it and it could be the start of the journey of a lifetime.

To find out more about Nell's writing visit her website at http://www.nelldixon.com/


Thank you to Katie, Jan, Jean and Nell for sharing your experiences of the New Writers' Scheme. Your successes will inspire NWS members to persevere with their writing.


To find out more about the New Writers' Scheme visit the RNA website at http://www.rna-uk.org/


Sincere thanks to everyone who has taken part in this series and generously shared their experiences of The New Writers' Scheme.

The best of luck to all those joining the NWS in 2012.

The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 4 – 2011 NWS Graduates

2011 has been a bumper year for the New Writers' Scheme with a total of eleven members finding publishers for their novels so far. A very warm welcome to four of these, Liz Fenwick, Linda Mitchelmore, Liz Harris and Henriette Gyland who share their NWS journey with us.


Liz Fenwick was a member of the NWS for six years. Her novel, THE CORNISH HOUSE will be published by Orion in May 2012.


Liz, tell us about your novel's journey through the NWS? Did it receive a second read? Had it been submitted before?

THE CORNISH HOUSE was my second novel that went through the NWS and it went through twice. The first year’s really positive comments helped me to revise the book and bring the best out of it. The second year provided more positive criticism, which I took on board before sending it out to the market. The book never received a second read.


What difference did the NWS make to your writing and to you as a person?


The NWS does many things...the first it gives you a solid deadline to work with and this is an important thing to learn to live and work around. It also teaches you that you do have to show your work to others. This leads to the important skill of learning how to take constructive criticism. The feedback you receive from the NWS is intended to improve your work. That doesn't mean it doesn't sting but once your work is out in the wide world people will both like and loathe it. The NWS prepares you for this in a way. It also provided me with a reader who wasn't biased. Unbiased readers are hard to find when you begin.
Do you think you would be where you are now if you'd never become a member of the NWS?


I certainly wouldn't be here yet. I had and still have the persistence needed to become published, but the NWS gave me a push up. By encouraging new writers the RNA gives them a chance to get feedback and the chance to network and learn about the industry. In a sense it gives new writers the chance to become ‘professional’ in a safe environment.


What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Enjoy, work hard, make friends, listen, learn and grow with the feedback that you will receive.

Follow Liz on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/liz_fenwick
To find out more about Liz's work see her website http://lizfenwick.com/






Devon based author, Linda Mitchelmore's historical novel, TO TURN FULL CIRCLE, will be published by Choc Lit in June 2012.


Linda, can you tell us about your novel's journey through the NWS? Did it receive a second read? Had it been submitted before?

To Turn Full Circle, is my first historical novel, although I have written six contemporary novels. You can imagine my joy when it went to a second read. Both readers said they thought it would be perfect for Robert Hale so that was where I sent it myself - no agent being required for Hale. I got a huge dent to the ego when it came back within a week! I then told the NWS how surprised I was at this and it was suggested I try it at Choc-Lit - again, no agent is needed. But Choc-Lit do require a male point-of-view so I worked hard at writing one in and submitted it three months later. I was soon asked to submit the rest - much to my joy! - but had a nail-biting six month wait before I was finally accepted. My book is scheduled for publication in May 2012.

How long were you in the NWS?

Too long! is the short answer. I wrote six contemporaries, and all but one went to second reads. I kept getting so close but not quite there yet. But although those second reads were sent to top agents and I received very kind and constructive rejections from them all, I wasn't taken on. In 2004, I was awarded The Katie Fforde Bursary and I'm only too pleased I can now look Katie in the eye, her faith in me justified at last!

What difference did the NWS make to your writing and to you as a person?

I don't know that the NWS has made any difference to my writing as such - I've always been told I have a strong 'writing voice' and I can only write how I write and what I like to write about. I am a seat-of-the-pantser! But always emotion led.

As a person, being a member of the NWS has been life-enhancing. Meeting full members - whether big names or not - I was always made very welcome by everyone - not made to feel less of a writer in any way at all because I was on the NWS scheme and not between covers yet.

I think that my first ever submission went to a second read was what probably urged me onwards, made me believe in myself that I can write and would be published one day.

Do you think you would be where you are now if you'd never become a member of the NWS?

Possibly not as I am at this very moment with a novel contract and being uber-excited at seeing suggestions for book covers! But I was a widely-published writer of short stories for the womag market before joining the NWS so I would still be writing.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Get the champagne in the second you send off your submission! There's always that chance that talent and luck will go hand in hand for you and that your first submission will find a top agent and a top publisher and will fly. But, if it doesn't happen like that for you, then don't give up - never, ever give up. Each novel you write will be better than the one before as you hone your craft. If you go to the RNA conferences you will meet a wonderful bunch of women (and a few men!) who think like you, act like, you, share your dreams. A writing buddy can be good, too - healthy competition as you try to best one anothers daily word output! And remember .....champagne is better for the keeping!

Follow Linda on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lindamitchelmor

and on the Novel Points of View blog at http://novelpointsofview.blogspot.com/





Liz Harris's graduation from the NWS happened with two novels being accepted within a week. One novel by ChocLit and the other by D.C. Thomson for a People's Friend pocket novel.


Liz, tell us about your novel's journey through the NWS? Did it receive a second read? Had it been submitted before?

THE ROAD BACK was submitted once only to the NWS, and it got through the second read. When Melanie told me that it had gone for a second read, and later that it had got through, I was absolutely over the moon. It was a wonderful moment.

How long were you in the NWS?

I’ve been a member of the RNA since 2005 (I think), and a member of the NWS since I joined. So that’s 6/7 years. I believe that I joined just before the 2005 Royal Holloway Conference, and then went to the Conference.

What difference did the NWS make to your writing and to you as a person?

A huge difference to both - they are connected. If you want to write, and I did, anything that helps you to improve your skill in writing – and that improvement is something that you can see for yourself – develops your confidence and has a positive effect on the way that you see yourself in relation to the thing that you want to achieve.

The NWS critiques are a master class in writing. I don’t believe that anyone can approach his/her own work with a truly objective eye, and there can’t be a better objective eye than that of someone already published in that genre, someone who is focused on telling the truth with a view to helping the writer to improve, rather than someone who aims to say only what they think the writer will want to hear.

We all have writing mannerisms, just as we have verbal and physical mannerisms, and the NWS critiquer, not blinded by affection and the desire to avoid giving any sort of pain, is the person to point out those writing mannerisms so that they can be eliminated.

No matter how carefully and sensitively the critiquer presents criticism, there will always be pain, but, to quote a familiar cliché, No pain, no gain.

The best critiques begin with praise for what the writer has achieved, and then go on to offer constructive criticism of the areas that need addressing. I have been fortunate to have had some of the best critiques.


Do you think you would be where you are now if you'd never become a member of the NWS?

It’s a very difficult market, and I’m not sure that I would be published. I’d like to couple the RNA with the NWS in this. By learning about the publishing industry, which I’ve done through my membership of the RNA - and very enjoyably, too – I was better equipped in my quest for publication. The NWS helped me to hone the skills that enabled me to take advantage of what I’d learnt through the RNA.

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Go for it! It’s quite amazing value, and there is nothing – absolutely nothing – more exciting than feeling your book improve beneath your fingertips. You cannot reach this point by yourself, but you can with the aid of the NWS.

Follow Liz on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/lizharrisauthor

and Facebook www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=674179771&ref=ts




Henriette Gyland's persistence has paid off in 2011. Her novel has been accepted by Choc Lit and she won first place in the Festival of Romance's New Talent Award.


Henri, tell us about your novel's journey through the NWS? Did it receive a second read? Had it been submitted before?

Yes, it's been through the NWS several times before, once where it made up parts of another novel, where eventually I scrapped the other half because it was a different story (and pretty bad too!), and once as a partial. The title has changed a couple of times – and probably will again – and I've even changed the main character's name, plus added a male view point.
I think this particular novel illustrates my development as a writer, from that early idea, badly executed, to something publishable, and although I've never had a second read, I've always found that a constructive first read is enough to go back to it and improve it. There's nothing stopping you from sending it in again later on.

How long were you in the NWS?

As much as I hate to admit it, I've been on the scheme for about 12 years, although in my defence some of that time was spent looking after young children, which isn't exactly conducive to writing. Not in my house anyway!

What difference did the NWS make to your writing and to you as a person?

The NWS readers helped me see where I was going wrong with my writing, but also praised me for the things I did right. I took on board their advice, sometimes grudgingly, and realised later that they were so spot on. On a personal level, because the RNA allows membership to unpublished writers, through the NWS, I felt I was part of something. That was and is really important to me. Writing can be a lonely existence – chatting to fellow writers makes you feel normal.

Do you think you would be where you are now if you'd never become a member of the NWS?

Categorically no. Not sure where I would be, but probably in some dark corner muttering to myself and feeling resentful and left out...

What advice would you give a writer thinking about becoming a member of the NWS for the first time in 2012?

Write the best novel you can, and take the NWS reader's comments in the spirit they're intended, as a help. Don't get hung up about not getting a second read. Enjoy being a New Writer and having the luxury to work on your novel for as long as you like. Come to the parties!

Follow Henri on Twitter at https://twitter.com/henrigyland

and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Henriette-Wulff-Gyland/761371494

Thank you to Liz, Linda, Liz and Henri for sharing your journeys through the NWS. Your successes will inspire other members of the NWS to keep on writing. We wish you all every success with your novels.

To find out more about the New Writers' Scheme visit the RNA website at http://www.rna-uk.org/

Information about 2012 membership will appear on the RNA website in mid December.


The final part of The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' - NWS Alumni will be posted on 20th December.

The New Writers' Scheme - Inside Out - Part 3 - A Reader's point of view

The anonymous Readers of the New Writers' Scheme are its backbone. Without them there would be no critiques. Usually they remain in the background, but today three NWS Readers give us an insight to what they look for when a manuscript arrives on their door mats. Welcome to Allie Spencer, Rachel Summerson and Pia Tapper Fenton.

Allie, can you tell us what attracted you to being a reader for the New Writers' Scheme?

I wanted to be a reader for the NWS because I benefitted so much from the scheme myself and I wanted, as they say, to ‘put something back’. It is such a valuable scheme for unpublished writers as it not only gives technical advice but emotional support and encouragement too – being an aspiring writer can be quite a lonely job!

How many novels do you usually critique a year?

I don’t critique as many as I would like to, because of my own work and family commitments. I also only feel comfortable critiquing rom coms (my specialist area) so I usually manage between four and five a year.


Talk us through how you critique a novel? What do you look for?

I make sure that I read the novel carefully; taking notes as I go, then I sit down and think about what I am going to say in my report.

When I read a ts, I am looking for a strong, imaginative story; excellent line-by-line writing; characters who leap off the page, develop and grow with the story – plus a good dollop of conflict. Essentially, I want a ts that I can’t put down!

I spend a lot of time writing my report and then checking it through to make sure I have said what I need to clearly, concisely, and in a way that the NWS member receiving it can translate my advice into practical steps to improve their novel. My aim is to offer constructive, practical and, where possible, optimistic advice which the writer can use to re-work their book.

From your experience with NWS submissions, what are the key points a writer needs to think about before they submit their work?

There is no getting away from it: writing a novel is hard. Most of us who are published authors had years – if not decades – of honing our skills before we got that much-longed for contract. I think, however, if you make sure you work on all the points I mentioned above in Question 3 plus polish, polish, polish, polish – you will be well on the way to producing a publishable novel.

My agent, Teresa Chris, always says that you wouldn’t produce a quick sketch and then send it along to the Royal Academy to see what they think; instead, you would make sure your picture was as perfect as you could possibly make it. The same applies to novels: the more professional your work appears, the more chance you have of getting it published.

Whilst ‘partials’ are always welcomed by the NWS, if you really want to get that second read make sure your book is polished to the highest standard you can manage.

Also, as well as writing, make sure you read a lot, especially within your chosen genre. There is no better tutorial than reading the market leaders in the type of book you want to write. You will learn an awful lot about the craft of writing and hopefully finish the book inspired and fired-up, ready to create your own masterpiece!

What advice would you give a writer submitting to the NWS in 2012?

The publishing industry is going through a tough time at the moment. Sales are down – especially supermarket sales – and it is going to be harder than ever to get published in 2012. However, there are some very talented people around, and talent and hard work will, in my opinion, always win through. Don’t despair, don’t get despondent – just switch on that computer and get writing. The RNA and the NWS are here to support you (we really do want you to succeed) and we will do what we can to help you get where you want to be.

To find out more about Allie and her work visit her website at http://alliespencer.com/



Rachel Summerson, who writes as Elizabeth Hawksley, has been a Reader for about twelve years.

Rachel, can you tell us what attracted you to being a reader for the New Writers' Scheme?

I have benefitted hugely from my membership of the RNA and I wanted to give something back. I’m not a ‘committee person’, but reading and reporting on typescripts is a skill I can offer. I enjoy helping aspiring writers and I’m thrilled when they make it.

How many novels do you usually critique a year?

I usually critique between 5 and 6 typescripts a year.

Talk us through how you critique a novel.
What do you look for?

I read the typescript fast, the way an editor would read it, and make brief notes on each chapter (2 lines max.) to remind myself of what happens: names, dates, places etc., and any page references I want to comment on.

I’m looking for a good story with characters I can relate to.

The most common problems are with plot – which usually shows up in chapter one, that is, not enough is at stake; characters which fail to convince as they should; a tendency for the tension to drop; and a dodgy grasp of punctuation and of how a professional typescript should be set out.

From your experience with NWS submissions, what are the key points a writer needs to think about before they submit their work?

If you’ve submitted a typescript before, make sure you’ve taken on board all the advice you were given the previous year. You don’t have to agree with it but you would be well advised to take it seriously.


What advice would you give a writer submitting to the NWS in 2012?

Please, try and get it in well before the deadline!

To find out more about Rachel's work visit her website at http://www.elizabethhawksley.com/

Pia Tapper Fenton, who writes as Christina Courtenay, is a New Writers' Scheme graduate.

Pia what made you want to become a Reader for the NWS?

I was on the New Writers' Scheme myself for six or seven years when I joined the RNA and I would never have been published without the support I received from the organisers and readers. Their critique helped me to improve and their encouragement made me believe that I could achieve my goal one day, even when I doubted it myself. So when I finally became a published author, I really wanted to give something back to the RNA, and I felt this was one of the best ways of doing that. I have been a reader now for four years (or is it five? Sorry, I’ve lost count!)

How many novels do you usually critique a year?

It varies from year to year, depending on how many submissions there are in the genres that I read.

Talk us through how you critique a novel? What do you look for?

I start by reading the whole manuscript as if it was a published novel, without looking at the synopsis because I don’t want to know what’s going to happen, I want to be surprised. If there’s anything that really pulls me out of the story, I’ll make a note of it (or write in pencil on the m/s if the author doesn’t mind).

I’m looking first of all to see whether the plot works/is plausible, whether I like the characters and can empathise with them (especially the hero/heroine) and whether it feels like a story that’s ready for publication.

If anything isn’t working, I’ll try to make suggestions to improve that particular aspect and to help the author make the novel as good as possible.

Once I’ve commented on the overall story and what I liked about it, I’ll go through it again in more detail and perhaps pick out specific things that need changing or looking at. If the author is new to the NWS, I might comment on things like layout and grammar etc, but only because an agent or editor will expect submissions to be perfect, not because I’m trying to nit-pick.

From your experience with NWS submissions, what are the key points a writer needs to think about before they submit their work?

First of all immaculate presentation – although no one except the NWS reader will see this manuscript, it’s a practice run for when you send it out to agents so it has to be as perfect and professional as you can make it in every respect.

A coherent synopsis which covers only the key points of the story and tells the reader all they need to know without unnecessary waffle.

Are the characters the kind that the reader can empathise with? (Ie. not a heroine who is spoiled and petulant all the way through and doesn’t deserve her happy ever after.)

Is there enough tension throughout the story, or are there some chapters that feel very “flat”, where nothing much happens? Have you remembered the “show-don’t-tell” rule – if there are several pages of telling the reader what’s happening instead of showing it through dialogue or action, go back and change it before sending it off.

If you’re not sure about your grammar or spelling, ask someone else to read it for you before sending it off. Read your dialogue out loud to yourself to see if it really sounds like a normal person talking. I’m sure there are other things, but those are some of the more important ones I think.

What advice would you give a writer submitting to the NWS in 2012?

Believe in your story and write exactly the kind of thing you’d like to read. Don’t try and write like anyone else, just be yourself - I want to hear your voice loud and clear. And don’t write a vampire story because Twilight is popular or whatever, write one because you happen to like blood and gore, otherwise it will show!

To find out more about Pia's work visit her website at http://www.christinacourtenay.com/

Thank you very much to Allie, Rachel and Pia for talking to us and for giving your time and expertise to the New Writers' Scheme. Thanks also go out to all the other anonymous Readers who contribute to the NWS.

To find out more about the New Writers' Scheme visit the RNA website at http://www.rna-uk.org/

Information about 2012 membership will appear on the RNA website in mid December.

The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 4 – 2011 NWS Graduates will be posted on 16th December.

The New Writers' Scheme - Inside Out - Part 2 - Inside the NWS

Today's post looks at the New Writers' Scheme from the inside. A warm welcome to current 2011 members, Lizzie Lamb, Debs Carr and Kate Thomson who generously share their experiences of being a member of the NWS.

Lizzie, can you tell us what made you first take part in the New Writers Scheme?

I’d belonged to several writing clubs over the years but few of the members were writing in the same genre as I was - rom coms - and so the feedback I got was often wide of the mark. A friend and RNA member suggested that I join the NWS and get feedback from an experienced published writer.

How long have you been a member?

I joined the New Writers’ Scheme in January 2007 and have been a member ever since. I hope to re-join in 2012.

What do you feel the NWS has done for you?

Initially, the new Writers’ Scheme gave me a target to aim for i.e. finishing my novel and getting it polished enough to send to a reader. Through RNA conferences and parties, I was introduced to other members of the NWS (and published authors) and shared common experiences with them. As I have watched NWS members become published authors it has given me the spur to carry on, hoping that one day I’ll become a full member of the RNA.

The NWS is both a reality check and a support mechanism. It says: “If you’re determined, persistent and willing to learn you could make it as a published writer. Since joining the RNA /NWS I have learned much about how the industry works, what is important and what is peripheral in the writing business. I have also made so many new friends via the parties, and conferences that my personal and professional life is richer for it.

How has it improved your work?

I have learned the importance of striking a balance between plotting and characterisation; an appreciation of how to pace a novel and keep the reader’s interest - the elusive page turning quality - and how to tell my story/take my characters on an emotional journey. In particular I have learned to show the hero/heroine as real people who the reader will worry about, care for and want to see reach a happy ending/conclusion after facing trials and tribulations.

Can you tell us about the critiques you've received?

I have received four in all. Two for finished novels and two critiques on partials. The first novel I submitted almost got a ‘second read’. That's the novel I am currently re-writing and lengthening to 100k words. The critiques have shown me how to improve my writing, how to build up the layers of the main characters and to cut down on some of the secondary characters who were hogging the limelight ! They have given praise where praise is due - for my use of dialogue, witty turn of phrase and the pace of my novel. This has given me the confidence to carry on and finish and further develop my ‘voice’.

Have you submitted the same novel more than once?

I have resubmitted my first novel as a ‘partial’ this year, re-written and lengthened from 83k - 110k words. I hope to finish by spring next year, copy edited and then resubmitted to the NWS before sending it out to agents.

What advice would you give a writer starting the scheme for the first time in 2012?

Have realistic expectations about what the scheme actually offers. It can’t write your novel for you - only you can do that - but it can give some great pointers on how to make your novel better and get it ready for submission to agents/editors.

Remember: the critique is one person’s opinion of your work; read and assimilate what your reader has said - and if any of the points have a resonance for you, then act upon them. A different reader might write a completely different critique of the same novel.

Don’t ask for too many opinions on your work as you can be pulled this way and that, spend years revising and re-editing it and in the process lose your ‘voice’ and get bored with your novel. And it will show.

Write the novel you want to write but with the all the usual caveats; above all finish it - you’ll learn a great deal in the process.

Jersey based writer Debs Carr has been a member of the NWS for six years.

Debs, what made you first take part in the New Writers' Scheme?

I discovered the RNA through sending a manuscript to Hilary Johnson for a critique. In the book the heroine is living in a rundown house and is working on various rooms. Hilary suggested that if I wanted to see a good example of how this can be incorporated into a story I could read Katie Fforde’s book, Restoring Grace, which I did. I then contacted Katie to tell her how much I loved the book and we exchanged a few emails. Katie mentioned the RNA and in particular, the New Writers’ Scheme and I joined as soon as possible.

What do you feel the NWS has done for you? How has it improved your work?

I consider myself very lucky to be a part of such a professional, welcoming association and as well as introducing me to many people that I’ve long admired, I also continue to learn how to improve my writing. I had no idea quite how far my writing had to go when I first joined, but each time I’ve received a report from an NWS reader, I’ve ultimately improved the novel far more than I ever would have done without the report.

Each reader is different and I think I’ve now sent in four different novels to the scheme. The readers pointed out many things from switching points of view, to gaps in my plot, or unrealistic reactions between characters. I believe my writing has improved immeasurably since I’ve joined the scheme and hopefully I’m ‘nearly there’.

Can you tell us about the critiques you've received?

I read each critique as soon as I receive them. I have to admit that each time I’ve submitted a manuscript to the NWS, I’ve believed the book was as good as I could make it. Then to get a critique pointing out for several pages what is wrong with the characters, plot, etc can be a little upsetting (to say the least), but I’ve always put the report down and left it for a while. Once I return to it and read it in a less emotional mood, I can usually see immediately what the reader has found wrong and in many cases ideas how to (vastly) improve the book.

I did have a report one year that said, ‘you’re almost there’ and then I worked on the novel for a year, taking into account the different points the reader had made, submitted it to the NWS Scheme and received back a report that honestly made me feel that I’d spent a year ruining a book. I’ve looked back at that report since and can see the value in it and I always take on board the advice that’s given to me.

Have you submitted the same novel more than once?

Yes, I’ve submitted two novels twice.

What advice would you give a writer starting the scheme for the first time in 2012?
I’d advise to try to send in a completed manuscript and edit it as well as you can before submitting it. Also expect to read some uncomfortable truths about your ‘baby’ in the report. Make sure you read it, step away, take a deep breath and return to the report a week or so later ready to absorb what the reader is telling you and work on your novel once again.

Debs has two stories in the anthology Tears and Laughter and Happy Ever After coming out in paperback in late Dec/early Jan. To find out more visit the website http://www.tearsandlaughter.co.uk/main/


Follow Debs and her writing at http://debcarrs-daydreams.blogspot.com/


Kate Thomson has seen her writing become stronger since she became a member of the NWS.

Kate, tell us how you came to join to the New Writers' Scheme?

I think I found the RNA and its wonderful NWS from the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook. I thought the chance to get a critique from people who knew what they were talking about was absolutely invaluable, and was proved right when I joined and submitted my first MS.

How long have you been a member?

I've been a member round about 13 years now (lucky for some, perhaps) - a long apprenticeship, but I hope a thorough one.

What do you feel the NWS has done for you? How has it improved your work?

The NWS for me is a knowledgeable and impartial pair of eyes to look at my work and help me to progress my skills. It's also very good at helping me look at my writing in a more commercial way, which I know is a weakness in me.

Can you tell us about the critiques you've received?

Every single one has been brilliant! I really can't praise them highly enough. Most of the time (after I've swallowed the disappointment that my reader wasn't struck that my MS was the best thing they've ever set eyes upon!), I have found that my reader has put their finger on precisely what's not right about the MS, and has phrased it in a way that means I can see what's the problem - and more importantly, lets me come up with ideas to fix it. Even if I've disagreed about something, I have been able to understand what my reader meant and see why they made the comment. Every single time my reader has helped me find ways to make the novel stronger, without dictating what I should do.

Have you submitted the same novel more than once?

I don't think so (13 years - it's hard to remember!), but my general view is that I learn from my mistakes and move on rather than endlessly editing the same book. Each novel is then stronger than the last one and I really do feel now that publication isn't far away.

What advice would you give a writer starting the scheme for the first time in 2012?
Take your time to ensure the MS you submit is as strong as you can make it alone. This means you'll get a critique which can really help to power your writing forwards and doesn't have to tell you obvious things you could find out elsewhere (like how to punctuate a manuscript) and doesn't point out what you already know is wrong with the manuscript but were too rushed to work on. Having said that, my other piece of advice is to get your MS in as early as possible - it really does make a difference to the amount of time your reader will have to read and critique your work (and how fast you'll get your report back).


Thank you to Lizzie, Debs and Kate for sharing your experiences of the NWS. I wish you all the best of luck with your novels and hope that you all become NWS graduates soon.

To find out more about the New Writers' Scheme visit the RNA website at http://www.rna-uk.org/

Information about 2012 membership will appear on the RNA website in mid December.


The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 3 – A Reader's point of view will be posted on 13th December.

The New Writers' Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 1 - The Organiser

One of the special things about the RNA is its New Writers’ Scheme, which is unique among professional writing organisations. Every year it gives aspiring writers a chance for a personal evaluation of their work by an experienced author and has helped many writers achieve publication.

Melanie Hilton is the current NWS organiser, whose job it is to deal with the 250 manuscripts which arrive through her letter box each year.

Melanie can you tell us when and how you took over organising the New Writers' Scheme?

I took over in 2008. The then Chairman, Catherine Jones, caught me after one too many G&Ts.

With 250 members, it must take a lot of organising. Take us through what happens when a NWS manuscript arrives in the post.

I open it, check everything is there, date the receipt postcard, log it in my Typescripts spreadsheet and make a new folder for the author if they haven’t got one already. Then I read the Green Form, the synopsis and any notes the author has sent, look at my Reader spreadsheet (yes, Spreadsheet R Me) and match the typescript with a Reader who is free. I may need to email the Reader first. When I’ve got them matched up I repack the typescript, repair the damage the PO has done to the parcel and address it. My husband does a post office run daily. We had 106 typescripts in August this year which meant volunteer packers had to be called in!

Left - Manuscripts waiting to be repacked and sent to reader.

Right - Ready for the post.

Can you give us some stats from the 2011 NWS. What sort of novels were most popular?

This year 34.5% were straight contemporary/women’s fiction; 15.5% for various Harlequin Mills & Boon lines; 25% Historical (not including the HMB Historicals); 7% each: crime/adventure/suspense; Rom Com; Speculative (supernatural, fantasy, sci fi, vampires etc); sagas. 4% Young Adult. 3% each Chick Lit; Pocket Novels. <0.5% each literary; inspirational; erotic. As far as the period in which they were written goes: 66% were set in the 21st c; 25% 20thc or earlier and 9% were fantasy, timeshift, scifi etc.

How many NWS members have found a publisher for their books this year?

10 signed contracts. Because of publication dates 7 have opted to enter for the Joan Hessayon Award this year (ie winner to be announced at the 2012 Summer Party) and 3 are deferring until next year.

Have the genres of novels submitted changed over the years?

I only have statistics from when I began running the Scheme, but over those 4 years the relative popularity of genres has remained more or less the same with the exception of a decline in Chick Lit (I suspect that authors are simply calling many of them Contemporary) and a slight upward trend in fantasy. The biggest change has been the arrival of Young Adult last year for the first time.

What advice would you give to a writer wishing to take part in the 2012 NWS?

To get on to the Scheme, read the instructions on the website and apply as soon as you can after the start date! Once you are actually on the Scheme, then – read the Notes and fill out the Green form in full to help both me and the Reader. Sort out your punctuation (especially of speech!) so the Reader can focus on the writing. Try and get it in before August and miss the rush.

Thank you Melanie, for all the work you do for the NWS, it is greatly appreciated.

To find out more about the New Writers' Scheme visit the RNA website at http://www.rna-uk.org/

Information about 2012 membership will appear on the RNA website in mid December.

The New Writers’ Scheme 'Inside Out' Part 2 – Inside the NWS will be posted on 9th December.

Interview with Juliet Archer

Juliet Archer chairs the RNA’s London and South-East Chapter, and claims to be on a mission to modernise all six of Jane Austen’s completed novels, in a series called ‘Darcy & Friends’. I would guess that Jane Austen is the author who has most influenced your work, Juliet? 

Jane Austen has indeed been my biggest influence. 200 years ago, she recognised all the magic ingredients of comedy romance: wonderful characterisation, expert plotting, vibrant language, and using wit to drive the humour. She’s one of the few authors I can read over and over again, even though I know exactly how everything turns out in the end.



And who do you choose to read for pleasure? 

I include Jane Austen in my reading for pleasure, along with books by other Choc Lit and RNA authors, whether contemporary or historical. I also love Lee Child’s fast-paced thrillers – Jack Reacher is James Bond for grown-ups!

I believe you have a full-time career in business. How do you manage to fit your writing in around that?

At the moment I’m commuting to London by train most days, which gives me the opportunity to write – or at least edit and generally think about my work-in-progress. I get up around 5 am and do something writing-related before leaving for the station, even if it’s only answering emails. When I arrive home in the evening, I’m usually too tired to do anything creative – unless I’m giving a talk, which requires building up my energy levels for a couple of hours. Once both our children left home, I thought that I’d have more time for writing – but it hasn’t happened yet because work has got busier. Still, there’s always retirement …

Tell us how do you go about starting a new novel? 

By throwing the reader in at the deep end! My starting point is a scene in my mind that captures a major source of conflict between the hero and heroine. This usually becomes a prologue, giving the reader a glimpse of something in the past, present or future before the story gets underway.

The prologue to THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EMMA is a scene from the past, where the hero discovers the heroine’s teenage crush on him (inspired by Austen positioning Knightley as a much older ‘bossy big brother’ type) and makes her resentful for years afterwards.

As your characters are ‘borrowed’ from Jane Austen, how do you keep them sympathetic to modern readers?

It’s rather like analysing a famous figure from history and proving that their passions and flaws are just as relevant today. I begin by unpicking the social context of Austen’s characters, then transport them to the 21st century, complete with jobs, mobile phones, internet connections and sex lives – great fun! And I love finding plausible modern parallels to some of Austen’s most famous scenes – such as Louisa Musgrove’s fall on the Cobb, and Wentworth’s letter.

Tell us about your latest book, PERSUADE ME. What inspired you to write it?

For the second in my ‘Darcy & Friends’ series, I wanted a change of mood from the almost slapstick comedy of Emma; so Persuasion, with its romantic restraint and autumnal feel, seemed the obvious choice.

I like to describe my version in terms of a recipe – a recipe for romance, a light fruity pavlova, the ideal happy ending for those long winter evenings. Take the following ingredients: 2 lovers (1 hero and 1 heroine), separated; 5 sisters – 2 hard-boiled, 2 empty-headed and 1 that you would actually enjoy being with; 1 father, finer feelings – and who knows what else? – removed with a sharp knife; 1 godmother, grated – or should that be grating?; 2 brothers-in-law; 1 anti-hero, ripe for mischief; and 1 French temptress, who knows exactly which side her bread’s buttered.

Method (Jane Austen’s Persuasion method preferred): whip hero into a frenzy, while keeping heroine cool. Mix them together with the sisters, father, godmother, brothers-in-law and French temptress, reserving the anti-hero for later. Cook this mixture for 341 pages, introducing the anti-hero half-way through. Serve with vodka, to complement the flavouring of 19th-century Russian literature.

I think I can guess who your favourite hero is.

Yes, it has to be Mr Darcy. The original will do nicely, although I’d be happy with either the Colin Firth or Matthew Macfadyen version. What do your children think of your books? My daughter loves them – which is great, as I started updating Austen partly because she couldn’t get into the originals. My son says he’ll get round to reading them soon, so there’s a message in there somewhere.

Are you ever driven to write by hand?

Yes – in spite of having a laptop, Kindle and iPad! I prefer having a hard copy as it gets me into the mindset of a reader. What would you most like to find in your Christmas stocking? A voucher for a holiday in a remote cottage, so that I can get on with writing!

You spoke earlier of a recipe for writing. What about in cooking?

As my publisher is Choc Lit, it has to be something made with chocolate!
One of my favourites is Black Forest Trifle – easy to make and goes down well with adults and children alike.

You need:
1 slab of chocolate sponge cake, as stale as you like.
1 tin of black cherries, stoned
1 packet of black cherry jelly (optional)
1 packet of quick chocolate dessert mix, such as Angel Delight (this is the only time I use it, honest!) – or a few pots of chocolate mousse, if you’re feeling extravagant, or chocolate custard/sauce Double cream, whipped
1 crumbled Cadbury’s Flake or grated chocolate, for decoration

Method:
Break the cake into pieces and place in a trifle bowl. Add the contents of the tin of black cherries – the cake will soak up the surplus juice. If using jelly, make it up according to the instructions, pour onto the fruit/cake mixture and set aside to cool. Make up the dessert mix and spoon this (or the chocolate mousse/custard) over the trifle base. Add the cream and decorate with the chocolate.

Thank you Juliet for sparing the time to talk to us today.

Juliet’s debut novel was The Importance of Being Emma, inspired by Austen’s Emma and a desire to give Mr Knightley a makeover. It was shortlisted for the 2009 Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance and in 2011 won the Big Red Read Fiction Award. Her second novel, Persuade Me, was shortlisted for the 2011 Festival of Romance Best Romantic Read. To find out more visit her website http://www.julietarcher.com

December New Titles

Please note, prices may vary. 

New Paperbacks 

Liz Fielding

FLIRTING WITH ITALIAN
9780263885163
Harlequin Mills and Boon RIVA
£3.99 paperback

A new job, a new country ... all Sarah needs is a hot Italian lover and her new life will be complete.

Annie Burrows

REGENCY INNOCENTS
ISBN 9780263887419
Mills & Boon
December 2011
Paperback, £7.99

Reprint of linked regency romances featuring the Fawley brothers, Charles, Earl of Walton, (The Earl's Untouched Bride) and Robert, a battle-scarred veteran of the peninsular wars (Captain Fawley's Innocent Bride)

Mary Nichols

WINNING THE WAR HERO’S HEART
ISBN 978 0 263 88818 8
Mills & Boon
Paperback £3.99

Helen has inherited a provincial newspaper and uses it to champion the cause of the poor and in doing so crosses swords with the Squire’s son. Animosity turns to love, but a mystery in the past that links their two families, threatens to spoil it.

Scarlet Wilson

THE BOY WHO MADE THEM LOVE AGAIN
ISBN-978-0263886191
Mills and Boon
2 Dec 2011
Paperback £3.30

When Luke Storm ended his relationship with Abby Tyler, he thought that he was doing the right thing. Abby so wanted children and Luke knew he could never give them to her.

Anna Jacobs

Destiny’s Path
ISBN: 9780340954108
Hodder & Stoughton
22 December 2011
Paperback £6.99 1866

One twin wants to stay in Western Australia with the man she loves. The other wants to travel the world and daren’t hope that the man she loves will be able to marry her. Where will destiny take them? Will they find happiness? Find out more about ‘Destiny’s Path’ and read the first chapter at:

http://www.annajacobs.com/book.aspx?title=Destinys-Path&bookID=56New 


New Hardbacks:

Catherine King

THE LOST AND FOUND GIRL
ISBN 9781847443878
Sphere (Little,Brown)
1st December 2011
Hardback £19-99,
Kindle e-book £9-49 from www.amazon.co.uk

One twin lived in luxury, the other lived in secret . . . With heartwarming characters and heartbreaking twists, this is a story about a family bond overcoming all obstacles.

Janet Woods

TALL POPPIES
ISBN: 9780727881366
Severn House
29th December
£19.99 Hardback.

One women - two loves. 1918 and two friends return home, war heroes. Livia Carr marries for convenience, and finds herself in love with both men. But it's a bittersweet love since one is doomed.

http://www.janet-woods.comhttp//janwoods.blogspot.com 

New Large Print:

Wendy Kremer
TAKING STEPS
Linford Romance
ISBN: 978-1444809213
1 December 2011

Ross is a hard-headed executive whose only aim in life is to make money. Gillian firmly believes that other things are more important than making money. Will Ross and Gillian resolve their differences and perhaps find love and commitment?

Freda Lightfoot
ANGELS AT WAR
Ulverscroft
ISBN: 9780750534741
Large Print (Hard Cover)
1 December 2011 Price 
£ 20.99

After a tumultuous past, Livia is now set to marry handsome Jack Flint but dreams of resurrecting the family’s neglected drapery business. But with the wealthy Matthew Grayson standing in the way of her ambitions, can she stay true to her heart, or risk losing everything ...


New ebooks:

Nell Dixon

ASIN:-B006DTOC2O
Astraea Press
November 25th 2011
ebook - £1.45

Adam wants Meg to be more than a friend but Meg has her reasons for not wanting to move their relationship forward. It takes a stray dog, an emergency at sea and a touch of Christmas to show Meg her true feelings.

Margaret Blake
A SPRIG OF BROOM
ISBN978-1-61160-102-2
December 2011
Whiskey Creek Press
ebook, $6.99

Cecily Hadfield has no alternative but to marry Thomas Cadwalader. She loathes all he stands for and vows never to obey him. However, Cecily does not realize how close to the scaffold she is so carelessly wandering. An historical romance set just after the Battle of Bosworth.

Lindsay Townsend

THE SNOW BRIDE
ISBN Not yet available
Bookstrand
December 27, 2011
ebook with forthcoming paperback.

Elfrida, spirited, caring and beautiful, is the witch of the woods. No man dares ask for her hand in marriage until a beast comes stalking brides and steals away her sister. Desperate, Elfrida offers herself as bridal bait, and is seized by a man with fearful scars. Is he the beast?

http://www.lindsaytownsend.net/2008/04/snow-bride.html%20

Lindsay Townsend

THE ENGLISH DAUGHTER
ISBN - Not yet available
Lysandra Press
December 2011
ebook.

Returning to the island to work on a rare piano belonging to her Greek friend Alexia, young widow Val Baker finds her dreams haunted by memories of a young English girl raped and murdered ten years before. Val determines to uncover the truth about the case.

http://www.lindsaytownsend.net/2008/04/english-daughter.html

Vanessa Devereaux

NICOLE’S SECRET SANTA
Cobblestone Press-New Blue Line
99 cents ebook

Sometimes helping out a co-worker can have big rewards

Margaret Mounsdon 

THE MIMOSA SUMMER

Lysandra Press

December 2011

ebook £1.75

Pippa Cavendish is blonde and beautiful and no one's idea of a conventional nanny, but Lilly Fontaine loves her. Marc Fontaine her father suspects Pippa is not all she appears to be and he's right. Pippa has a secret that she is determined to keep hidden at all costs. 

Margaret Mounsdon 

LONG SHADOWS 

Lysandra Press 

December 2011

ebook £1.75 

Fiona Dalrymple is shocked to learn on the death of her grandmother that Doreen Dalrymple was not her grandmother at all. Her real grandmother was her grandfather's first wife, Ellie. She is further shocked to discover she has a brother. What is more Tim has disappeared and Fiona is charged with the task of finding him. 

Details http://www.lysandrapress.com

Fenella J Miller
Christmas at Hartford Hall
ISBN 9781619371835
 Musa/Aurora Regency
 (digital first) 2/12/11 £2.99

 A Regency Cinderella story complete with a handsome ‘Prince Charming’, two nasty sisters and a wicked female relative.





Novella:

Lindsay Townsend

A CHRISTMAS SLEEPING BEAUTY
ISBN - Not known
Muse It Up Publishing
December 2nd

Handsome, confident, a touch arrogant, Prince Orlando thinks that now he has found Sleeping Beauty, his kiss will wake her at once. When it does not, he realizes he has much to learn about life, and love.

http://www.lindsaytownsend.net/2008/04/christmas-sleeping-beauty.html 

New Short Story:

Kate Jackson

A FIRST CASE FOR MICHAELMAS JOLLY
The People's Friend Christmas Special 2011
D.C. Thomson 8th December

Victorian boy detective Michaelmas Jolly takes on his first case.

New titles by RNA members are put up by Freda Lightfoot. 

Please contact her at:freda@fredalightfoot.co.uk if you wish to contribute.