Dancing on Coals is a series of on-line workshops dedicated to helping writers learn put together the tools they need to write a novel that stands out from the crowd. Our workshops are devoted to helping writers discover that they can achieve things in their writing they previously thought impossible -- like dancing across hot coals, with joy and abandon.
In our workshops you’ll receive expert instruction in various aspects of novel writing, and intensive one-on-one help with your own work. Where lessons are followed by assignments, you’ll receive detailed feedback and suggestions that will help you define where you want your story to go.
In the past, one of the most popular features of Dancing On Coals workshops were the critiques, and we're delighted to say that they're back! With each 4-week workshop, you’ll also have the opportunity to submit 20 pages of your manuscript for an in-depth critique. With each 2-week workshop, you’ll have the chance to submit 10 pages. Unless specifically requested, critiques are shared with the whole class so everyone received the benefit of the feedback offered. If you're looking for a way to receive information on the craft and private coaching on how to apply what you learn to your own work, this is an easy and inexpensive way to do it.
Dancing On Coals Workshops require no special machinery. Lectures are delivered to your inbox through private listserves. The lessons and examples are there for you to read as your own schedule allows.
I also conduct private classes for critique groups, writing groups, and friends who want to improve their writing. If you’re interested in a private group lesson, e-mail me for details.
To pay via check or money order e-mail for details. Payment also accepted through MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or PayPal....a safe and easy way to transfer funds from your bank account or credit card.
JULY 18, 2009 - 9:45 am - 10:45 am
WHY, WHY, WHY? WRITING BELIEVABLE MOTIVATION
Romance Writers of America
29th Annual National Conference
Washington, D.C.
August 3 - 29, 2009
Registration Fee: $40 (includes critique)
THERE'S NOT ROOM ENOUGH FOR THE TWO OF US: Back by popular demand! Author intrusion is one of fiction's deadliest diseases. it jars readers, slows the pace of your work, and puts a barrier between your story and the reader. Learn how to avoid contrived or impossible situations, and how to keep yourself off the pages of your novel.
In this workshop you'll learn to identify and avoid:
- Ineffective point of view;
- The elusive spy syndrome;
- Characters who can read minds, and much more.
September 1 - 29, 2009
Registration Fee: $40 (includes critique)
MASTERING SCENE & SEQUEL: You've heard about scene and sequel, and the idea of using it makes sense -- but can you use scene and sequel and still maintain the fluid style of writing you prefer? Will using scene and sequel box you in, or can you still fly by the seat of your pants? Learn how to use scene and sequel to create powerful scenes while maintaining your own artistic integrity.
By taking this course you'll learn how to:
* Identify the anatomy of scene and sequel
* Use scene/sequel structure to build tension and highlight conflict
* Use scene structure to drive your story
* Create hooks that keep the reader turning pages
* Make characterization, motivation & conflict work together powerfully
* Decide what to include and leave out of your manuscript
* Avoid wandering off your story's path
* Tailor scene and sequel to fit your writing style and unique story
October 5 - 30, 2009
Registration Fee: $40 (includes critique)
SPINE-TINGLING SUSPENSE. Clues and red herrings. Murder and mayhem. Suspects, victims, and protagonists. All month we'll talk about writing suspense of all kinds. We'll look at the various elements of the genre, talk about plotting, about building tension and hiding clues in plain sight. We'll also discuss how to plant red herrings and clues that don't give themselves away, how to engage the reader, and how to keep her turning pages until the end. If you're interested in writing mystery and suspense, you won't want to miss this workshop!
November 2 - 28, 2009
Registration Fee: $45 (includes critique)
SPINNING STRAW INTO GOLD - The Art of Revisions. This workshop focuses on taking you from first-draft stage to finished product. This is where all your other skills come together to create a novel you can be proud of. We'll talk about looking at the whole landscape instead of that cloud in the corner, revising in waves, revising the whole manuscript as well as working scene by scene. You'll learn how to make sure your characters have come to life and that your sensory texture is richly drawn.
DECEMBER: NO WORKSHOP - HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
January 4 - 29, 2010
Registration Fee: $45 (includes critique)
DODGING THE DREADED SAGGY MIDDLE. In this workshop we'll be talking about the dreaded saggy middle of your novel -- that place between set-up and the climactic ending where conflict often droops and motivation wilts. We'll concentrate on getting around that saggy problem and show you how to pace your books so that readers and editors remain hooked all the way to the end.
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