Writing suspense in crime, thrillers and mysteries with Jo Furniss

Ref: D1D34560

Location: London
£125
Book now

Places available

About this course

Learn how to start writing all kinds of page-turning fiction and to identify the key differences between the sub-genres. Then develop some core writing skills relating to this popular genre.

Course Description

“The Suspense Is Killing Me” - but writing it doesn’t have to…

Crime / thriller / suspense / mystery — what’s the difference between the sub-genres? Which one are you writing? We study examples to identify key elements and demands of writing all kinds of page-turning fiction. Then we look at core writing skills (Point of view, setting, character, story), but with specific reference to this popular genre. We hone a pitch for our ideas and work on a killer opening chapter.

Course Materials

What students need to bring

A laptop or notepad and pen/any preferred writing materials

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Daily Timetable

Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm  
 

General Information

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions

Tutors

Jo Furniss

Jo Furniss is the author of several thrillers, including 'Deadmile', a murder mystery set on a gridlocked motorway. Her debut novel, 'All The Little Children', was an Amazon Charts Bestseller.

Courses of interest

Flash fiction writing – short stories

13 to 15 Dec 2024 | West Dean
Places available
Tutor: Ruth Brandt |
Suitable for all
£298

Writing – exploring the crime genre

24 to 26 Jan 2025 | West Dean
Places available
Tutor: Katy Massey |
Beginners/Intermediate
£298

Freelance writing

10 to 12 Jan 2025 | West Dean
Places available
Tutor: Joanna Moorhead |
Beginners
£300

Writing your family history

14 Jan 2025 | West Dean
Places available
Tutor: Joanna Moorhead |
Beginners
£147

Write your future with further study

If you’re looking to complete the first draft of a novel and learn about the publishing process. The two-year, part-time MA Creative Writing and Publishing is taught by professional authors and visiting industry professionals. Find out more