My journey with Jericho Writers courses

Embarking on the journey to write a novel is both thrilling and intimidating. For me, the decision to pursue writing courses through Jericho Writers was about more than just learning to write — it was about growth, connection, and finding my voice in the literary world.

Here’s how these courses shaped my writing journey and why they might be the stepping stone you need, too.

Why I chose writing courses with Jericho Writers

Writing a novel has always been my dream, but like many aspiring authors, I felt unsure of where to start. I sought professional guidance to refine my writing and push my creative boundaries. I wanted to gain technical skills, build confidence, and surround myself with a community of like-minded storytellers.

I approached these courses as tools to help me develop as a writer, step by step. Each course I chose met specific needs, from drafting a manuscript to navigating the publishing world.

The courses that transformed my writing

1. The Ultimate Novel Writing Course

This was my first foray into structured learning. The Ultimate Novel Writing Course took me from a spark of an idea to a complete manuscript, offering the structure and accountability I needed. With expert guidance and peer feedback, I found myself pushing through moments of doubt and creative block. The course taught me narrative structure, character development, and, most importantly, how to finish what I started.

2. The Self-Edit Your Novel course

Once I had a manuscript, I knew the next step was refinement. The Self-Edit Your Novel course taught me how to view my work through an editor’s lens. I learned to identify areas for improvement, enhance clarity, and polish my story until it shone. This phase was truly eye-opening — it amazed me how much a focused revision process could elevate my writing.

One memorable piece of advice came from Debi Alper, who suggested I start my novel at chapter four and switch tenses. That single change transformed the pacing and impact of my thriller. She also encouraged me to imagine my protagonist as a famous actor, which resolved my struggle with their voice.

3. The Path to Publication course

With a polished manuscript in hand, Path To Publication helped me navigate the world of publishing — a realm I found both exciting and overwhelming. It provided invaluable insights into compiling a compelling query letter, synopsis, and submission package. The highlight of this course was the agent showcase, where we read our first 500 words to two agents. Their feedback was not only constructive but incredibly motivating. Receiving a full manuscript request from one of the agents less than a week later was a dream come true, and I wasn’t the only one on the course to experience this success.

Lessons learned along the way…

Each of the courses I undertook with Jericho Writers surprised me in unexpected ways. I discovered strengths in my writing I hadn’t noticed, as well as habits I needed to break. Feedback from tutors and peers was invaluable, teaching me the importance of listening and staying open to suggestions.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve taken away include:

Resilience and Vulnerability: Sharing your work can be daunting, but it’s a necessary step in the creative process.

The Value of Revision: Editing is where the magic happens. It’s the bridge between a good draft and a great story.

Embracing Experimentation: Trying alternative approaches often leads to breakthroughs.

Connections Matter: The relationships I’ve built continue to inspire and support me.

Course highlights

The Ultimate Novel Writing Course helped me write my first novel and gave me a deep understanding of narrative structure.

The Self Edit Your Novel course boosted my confidence and taught me how to experiment with my writing.

Thanks to the Path To Publication course, the submission process is no longer a mystery, and I feel confident approaching agents and publishers.

Looking back and moving forward

These courses were more than just learning experiences for me — they were transformative. They equipped me with the tools to navigate the ups and downs of writing and publishing while fostering a sense of community that I deeply value.

If you’re considering taking the plunge, I can’t recommend Jericho Writers’ courses enough. Whether you’re starting with an idea, refining a draft, or preparing to submit, there’s a course to guide you every step of the way.

Here’s to your writing journey and all the stories waiting to be told.