The saying goes that “everyone has a story in them” and it’s the mission of Writing Magazine to help you get yours out. Brought to you by real experts who know what it takes to improve your writing or get published, this monthly magazine is a must-have for all writers. Whether you write fiction, poetry, drama, children’s books, non-fiction or anything else, each issue features tips, practical exercises and real-life advice, that will not only help you get all that creativity onto the paper but also, get your name and profile out into the industry. With writing masterclasses from professionals, industry news, events listings, competitions where you can submit your work for fantastic prizes and real paid writing opportunities, Writing Magazine has everything you need to hone and improve your talents.
WELCOME
The world of writing • Overdue books, a long-running dispute, surprise meetings and Mr Men minting it – all the latest from the wonderful world of writing
Writing Magazine
STAR LETTER
WRITERS’ VOICE • Martin Reed of the Society of Authors urges utmost caution if you’re considering paying to publish
REACHING OUT TENTACLES • As Jeff Bezos hightails it from Amazon, Piers Blofeld ponders on what its next phase holds for independent authors
Dealing with DIFFICULTY • Caroline Butterwick offers insights into best practices when it comes to writing about difficult experiences
The way to a win • What are the chances of winning a writing prize? And how do you increase your chances? Janet Rogers goes behind the scenes and finds out
LEARNING FROM LOCKDOWN • Crime bestseller Peter May explains how he found inspiration close to home for his latest novel.
Is my age an issue? • Helen Corner-Bryant reassures a writer worried that their age is against them
Editorial calendar • Strong forward planning will greatly improve your chances with freelance submissions. Here are some themes to consider for the coming months.
Opening chapters • Amy Sparkes is delighted with the results of WM’s first Chapter Book Prize 2020, and talks to the top three winners
Helen Fisher • The debut novelist was about to give up – and then she decided to give it one more go
Do your own thing • Consider what’s the best publishing route for you and your books, urges Adrian Magson
Spirit short story competition
How Tina Turner turned it round for Doreen
Going home
BOOK TO THE FUTURE • Thinking of going it alone? You’re in good company as DJ Bowman-Smith offers a brief history of independent publishing
TIMELINE OF MODERN INDIE PUBLISHING INNOVATIONS
SELF-PUBLISHING PIONEERS
CATHY BRAMLEY • The bestselling chicklit novelist shares her five favourite reads
Your writing critiqued • Author and lecturer James McCreet applies his forensic criticism to a reader’s first 300 words
In summary
Pro – or anti? • Do what’s right for your book, Jane Wenham Jones advises a reader worrying about the prologue she’s written for her novel
Under the covers Debut version 2.0 • Gillian Harvey is all set for her next outing
Let’s get physical • Give your writing group members a creative writing workout with these exercises from Julie Phillips
CIRCLES’ ROUNDUP • If your writing group would like to feature here, whether you need new members, have an event to publicise or to suggest tips for other groups, email Tina Jackson tjackson@warnersgroup.co.uk
SUBSCRIBER NEWS
Limited edition
Stone’s throw
Bloody footsteps
Fantasy fulfilled
Poems and prayers
Looking in lockdown
Horror coming through
SUBSCRIBE TODAY AND RECEIVE FREE ACCESS TO THE WRITER’S APP
Keeping the...