How To Write Your Debut Novel (ASC154)

Take part in a new short course for aspiring novel writers. 

What will you learn on this course?

By the end of this intensive and supportive workshop, led by bestselling crime writer David B. Lyons, you will have completed the opening chapter of your debut novel.

Your opening chapter will evolve week-on-week in a supportive environment that will help you decide on:

• The ideal voice to suit your novel
• The ideal narrative point of view to suit your novel
• The ideal setting for your novel, and
• Your ideal characters and their ideal dialogue 

As you are building your opening chapter, shared and discussed in a progressive workshop environment within the group, you will also learn how to structure the rest of your story with insight on the old adage of the ‘three acts’ and how that spine can help you figure out the beats that will lead to the completion of your story.

David will also offer insight on the many publishing avenues you may take on completion of your novel.

David fully believes there has never been a better time to be an author. If you’ve ever felt you had a book inside of you, this course aims to get that book out.

By the end of this workshop you will be equipped with the strongest possible opening of your debut novel, the structure beats for the rest of your debut novel, and the knowledge and belief that you can get that debut novel published using the many different avenues open to authors today. 

Biography 
David B. Lyons is a bestselling author of psychological crime fiction. He has had number one-selling novels in the UK, Ireland, Canada and Australia.  During his twenty-five-year writing career (he was a national journalist in Ireland before landing his first publishing deal in 2017), David has taught creative writing at Rathmines College in Dublin and then in Coventry University following his move to the West Midlands.

He had a number one hit with his second novel Whatever Happened to Betsy Blake? —a missing person thriller — back in 2019. Then wrote the critically-acclaimed novel In The Middle of Middle America in 2021—a story set behind the scenes of a 24-hour news network that was hailed “a modern masterpiece” by The Book Literati.

David now lives in Kings Heath with his wife Kerry and their daughter Lola and has written many chapters of his novels inside MAC.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. This course is for writers specifically looking to explore writing their debut novel. It is open to all levels of writing experience.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support. 

Do you need to bring anything?

Please bring a notebook and a pen, or laptop/tablet if you prefer. 

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs apart from your preferred writing materials. 

Who teaches this course?

David B. Lyons