Are you on the cusp of querying your novel and seeking guidance on the publishing journey ahead? Join us for an enlightening writer-focused panel where we’ll dive into the intricacies of querying a novel and equip you with essential insights to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Key Discussion Points:

Crafting an Irresistible Hook: Learn the top tips for creating a captivating hook line for your novel that will entice agents and readers alike. Discover how to identify the Unique Selling Points (USPs) of your book to make it stand out in a competitive market.

Agent or Publisher: Choosing Your Path to Publication: Explore the different routes to publication – from securing a literary agent to approaching publishers directly. Understand the pros and cons of each path and find the best fit for your writing journey.

Finding Your Audience: Once your masterpiece is out in the world, how do you connect with your readers? Uncover strategies for reaching your target audience through festivals, workshops, signings, and other engaging platforms.

Authors and Social Media: Building an Online Presence: Should authors be active on social media? Discover the importance of establishing an online presence, connecting with readers, and leveraging social media platforms to grow your author brand.

Panelists:

We have assembled a diverse panel of accomplished authors, each with their unique experience and insights:

Liam Bell: Author of four compelling historical/thriller novels, Liam brings his expertise in creative writing and the publishing world to the discussion.

Donna Moore: Award-winning crime fiction and historical fiction author, Donna’s extensive background in the writing industry will provide valuable perspectives.

Elliot J Harper: A speculative fiction writer with a knack for crafting captivating stories, Elliot brings a fresh perspective to the panel.

Rachel Grosvenor: A Birmingham-based writer and Ph.D. holder in Creative Writing, Rachel’s passion for storytelling adds a touch of the fantastical and the experience of a debut novelist to our discussion.

Moderated by Managing Director of Fly on the Wall Press, Isabelle Kenyon

Join us for this enriching event where you’ll gain essential tips, valuable knowledge, and a chance to ask questions during the interactive Q&A session.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or taking your first steps into the publishing world, this panel is a must-attend event to embark on your querying journey with confidence. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with fellow writers and learn from the best in the industry.

Reserve your spot now and be a part of this inspiring writer-focused panel!

About the speakers:

Rachel Grosvenor is a writer from Birmingham, UK, with a PhD, MA and BA in Creative Writing. With a passion for telling fantastical tales, Rachel has written poetry and short stories for reviews and anthologies worldwide. When she’s not writing, she spends her time editing, coaching, and wondering what’s for elevenses.

Elliot J Harper is a speculative fiction writer who lives in Leeds, England with his wife, Naomi. His short story, In the Garden, won The Molotov Cocktail magazines Flash Vision 2021 contest. He has short stories in print as follows: The Curious Case of the Speaking Telegraph in the Spirit Machine: Tales of Seance Fiction &, Into the Forest in The Wild Hunt: Stories of the Chase by Air and Nothingness Press, There’s a Dead Bear in the Pool in Black Telephone Issue 1 by Clash Books, Blackout in The Protest Issue of Popshot Quarterly Magazine. He has various short stories online in Maudlin House, Storgy, Neon Books, Coffin Bell, Horrified Magazine and Idle Ink. His monthly blog, A Brief Chat, hosts interviews with publishers, magazines, authors, and other creatives.

Donna Moore is the author of crime fiction and historical fiction. Her Her first novel, a Private Eye spoof called Go To Helena Handbasket, won the Lefty Award for most humorous crime fiction novel and her second novel, Old Dogs, was shortlisted for both the Lefty and Last Laugh Awards. Her short stories have been published in various anthologies. In her day job she works as an adult literacy tutor for marginalised and vulnerable women, facilitates creative writing workshops and has a PhD in creative writing around women’s history and gender-based violence. She is also co-host of the CrimeFest crime fiction convention and is a fan of film noir, 1970s punk rock and German Expressionist artists. The Unpicking is her third novel.

Liam Bell is author of three previous novels, Man at Sea, So It Is and The Busker, as well as short stories and articles in publications including New Writing Scotland, Litro, and Northwords Now. He was born in Orkney and grew up in Glasgow. He has studied at Queen’s University Belfast, the University of Glasgow, and the University of Surrey and now teaches at the University of Stirling. More information at www.liammurraybell.com or on twitter @liammurraybell.