Do you have a novel in you?
- rosie8998
- Mar 18
- 6 min read
I had an itch to write a novel from as far back as I can remember. I wasn't a brilliant writer, but I loved stories, and I had a great imagination. Attending a writing retreat was life-changing as it led me to believe I could pen my first novel. Now my fourth will be published this summer. In celebration, I want to share some of the people who have helped to make it happen – my writing tutor and literary agent – with this community. I really believe that both creative writing and confidence can be taught. Here's how...
The above photo is the moment I first laid my eyes on copies of my third novel, Just Between Friends, which was published in 2020. As well as an immense feeling of pride, it also felt emotional, because there is always quite a lot of me in my novels. Just Between Friends is set in a baby group in Clapham, London, where a group of first-time mums all meet ahead of their due dates to learn the basics about the life-changing moment when your child arrives in your world. Funnily enough, I attended an NCT class in Clapham. And, like my protagonist, Aisha, I also had a big argument with my husband on the pavement on the way to the first session. Fortunately, the rest is fiction! My life as a new mum wasn't nearly as unsettling as Aisha's turns out to be when she befriends Lucy at the group and they begin confiding in one another. It turns out one of them is not only incubating a baby, but also a huge secret which has the power to unravel both of their lives in the most disturbing way.
The drama, characters and plot is what I love most about creative writing – you hold the cards, your characters evolve and begin to live in your mind. Being in 'flow state' when the words are literally pouring out, is the most magical feeling, although there have been plenty of times when I've felt completely stuck and ready to throw it all in. That's normal too, writing a novel is a real journey. My latest novel is called Bad Influence and I will soon be revealing more about it, but let's just say it's five years late due to writer's block and life matters getting in the way. At times, I thought it was never going to be finished. Now that it is complete, I am certain it is a better story because of this. Sometimes ideas need space and time to percolate.
Writing your next chapter
Back in 2013, when my first novel, The Stylist, was little more than a twinkle in my eye, I decided to attend a writing retreat in Morocco. I went on my own and felt pretty nervous as I joined my group of fellow attendees at Marrakesh airport. I had just a few thousand words on my laptop and a hefty dose of self-doubt. Celebrated novelist and writing tutor Jill Dawson was the stand-in tutor on this retreat, and wow, did I luck out. Jill's brilliant tuition taught me so much about creating compelling characters, plotting storylines, and crafting vivid dialogue in my novel, and I really believe it is thanks to her that I left that retreat feeling as though I could – and most importantly, would – write my first novel. Jill and I have remained friends ever since. And this is why, when I decided to create my new writing retreat, taking place in Hampshire this May, I knew she was exactly the right person to lead the writing workshops. I'm thrilled Jill said 'Yes' because I know our guests will get as much from her as I did. If this is sparking something in you, our Reinvent Your Writing retreat could be for you.
Of course writing is one thing, getting published is something entirely different, and this is why I'm delighted that leading literary agent Jenny Savill will also join us on this retreat, to share practical advice on securing representation and getting your work published. Jenny also happens to be my extremely talented and lovely sister-in-law, and she is the person who secure me an author contract with Harper Collins, who I am thrilled to say have published my books ever since. Jenny knows everything there is to know about getting your work into the hands of others.
Both Jill, Jenny and I will also be available for one-to-one sessions during the retreat, to offer personalised guidance on your project. In the peaceful countryside of Lainston House— where historic charm meets modern luxury—you'll find the perfect setting to let your words flow. The hotel is in the heart of the countryside which Jane Austen found so inspiring when she wrote her novels. There will also be opportunities for scenic walks as well as exquisite dining in our serene surroundings. With only nine spaces left, be quick to secure yours!
An immersive 3-day retreat experience
You'll arrive at Lainston House and begin classes on Monday 12th May, and below is the itinerary for Tuesday 13th May. Our guests will have a final morning of tuition on Wednesday 14th May before departure. Free time to write, new connections with brilliant women and Rosie's Reinvention Retreat goodie bags are a given!
From 7:30am – Breakfast at leisure. There will be an optional guided walk to get the creative juices flowing.
10:00am – Building your world: Jill will guide you in developing your supporting characters, including your nemesis, and how they interact with your protagonist. You’ll explore how these characters shape your story and propel the plot forward. Plus, learn how to craft immersive settings and places that enhance your narrative, adding depth, atmosphere, and a sense of place to your writing.
11:30am – Enjoy a refreshing break with tea, coffee, fruit, or homemade treats as you mingle with fellow writers.
11:45am – Crafting dialogue: Jill will guide you through the intricacies of writing authentic dialogue and discovering the unique voice of each character. Explore how to make your characters’ conversations feel true to their personalities, ensuring that their interactions drive the plot and reveal deeper emotional layers within the story.
1:00pm – A delicious buffet lunch while continuing your conversations with fellow guests and exchanging insights.
2:00pm – Jenny will provide invaluable advice on securing a literary agent, understanding your audience, and navigating the publishing world. She’ll share practical tips and insider knowledge on how to get your novel noticed and build meaningful connections within the industry. Gain insights into the submission process, and learn how to effectively pitch your work to agents and publishers.
3:00pm – Learn how to build your personal brand and elevate your presence on social media with Rosie’s expert tips. She’ll show you how to promote yourself, your writing, and connect with readers. Rosie’s guidance will help you create an online presence that resonates, establishes your author identity, and drives engagement across platforms, ensuring your work reaches its full potential.
3:30pm – Free time to write and afternoon refreshments to keep you energised and inspired.
5:30pm – In conversation: Join Rosie for an engaging fireside chat with Jessica Bull, author of Miss Austen Investigates. Discuss writing, inspiration, and historical fiction, followed by pre-dinner drinks to reflect on the day's insights and connect with fellow writers in a relaxed setting.
7:00pm – Enjoy a delicious feasting menu in The Wellhouse restaurant, paired with wine, as you continue to share experiences and connect with your fellow writers.
There is no time like now
Some of the most successful authors of our time were first published in midlife, being over the age of 40, 50, 60, 70, 80+ is no barrier when it comes to writing. Toni Morrison, Sue Monk Kidd, Helen Dunmore are just a few authors who published their debut novels over the age of forty and went on to extremely successful careers seeing their works adapted for the screen too. Life experience creates great books!
I encourage you to think not about the fear of not doing well enough, but the fear of not doing something at all. I hope this has given you food for thought.
You can find out more about this special 3-day retreat below. You can also reserve your place by emailing hello@rosienixon.co.uk or lainstonhouse@exclusive.co.uk
