For emerging speculative fiction novelists ready to complete their first full manuscript, this rigorous course will guide you through the process of imagining, crafting and polishing your novels, as well as establishing a dedicated writing practice.

Using a proven combination of writing exercises targeted toward the speculative writer, as well as group discussions, workshopping, and carefully selected examples drawn from the best new and old writing across all genres, the focus of this course will be on your work. Its aim is to enable you to write a draft of your speculative fiction novel, while gaining a deeper understanding of both your chosen genre and the storyteller’s art—lessons that you can return to again and again as you move forward in your writing life.

In the second half of the program, you will continue to develop the craft and technical skills required to turn a rough draft into a work of art. Regular check-ins with the group and with your Course Directors will keep you on track to stay the distance and finish your manuscript draft throughout the year.

Presented by Australia’s leading independent publishing house, Writing a Speculative Fiction Novel is a targeted program specifically designed for the genre fiction writer. During this time, your Course Directors will provide you with:

• Feedback on 8,000-10,000 words of your work-in-progress, delivered through a mixture of whole-class workshops, and a personalised individual one-on-one consultation with your course directors.
• Regular online classes covering everything from a discussion of genre, craft, structure and style.
• A safe space for genre fiction: We believe that in asking, “What if,” writers can examine reality through a fresh lens, one that asks questions of long-held beliefs and attitudes and suggests alternatives to them. Our course is a safe space for the oldest and most enduring form of storytelling: that which challenges or bends reality—from myth to science fiction, fantasy to fairy tales, magic realism, horror and more.
• The ability to connect with fellow speculative fiction writers, discovering the benefits of a close-knit supportive community across Australia.
• The opportunity to establish valuable industry connections with key insiders from Australian publishing. There is no better way to get on the road to publication than to meet the people who know how to make that happen.
• A complimentary copy of a recent A & U publication.

In addition to dedicated course work, students who are submission-ready within three years of completing Writing a Novel will have the opportunity submit to the Faber Writing Anthology, a professionally edited and designed showcase of student work, sent to leading literary agents and publishers in both Australia and the United Kingdom, and launched at a bespoke industry party.