Writing Gothic Fiction

Gothic fiction has long enthralled and frightened readers in equal measure. From Stoker, Shelley and Poe to Jackson Morrison and Oyeyemi, we have read stories of haunted houses, family trauma, ghosts, curses and mysteries waiting to be unravelled. So what is it about this continually evolving genre that has eternal appeal? Whether you want to share your own deepest fears with readers or invoke the uncanny, this masterclass, led by critically acclaimed author Rhiannon Ward, will take a dive into writing gothic fiction. Rhiannon will look at how writers can explore and play with this genre that allows room for a variety of ideas and themes.  You'll better understand how to write troubled characters that readers both care about and/ or fear for; how to create landscapes with a distinct sense of place and foreboding atmosphere; and how to structure your plot so that you unsettle your reader at just the right moment.  15 minutes will be reserved for a Q&A at the end of the masterclass. This masterclass will be online, video platform to be confirmed. It will also be recorded so if you are unable to attend live, you'll be able to catch-up and access the recording for up to two weeks.   All attendees will be able to purchase Rhiannon's books from our independent bookshop partner. This masterclass makes up part of The Writing Process, a series held in collaboration with Book Aid International.