Maureen Jennings will share tips for creating a top notch book, by getting your beginning compelling and your ending satisfying. (And of course there’s the middle). TIFA’s Creative Writing Masterclasses offer the opportunity to learn how to craft compelling stories and bring captivating characters to life through hands-on lessons from acclaimed authors and industry experts. […]
Read more »
Classic crime fiction thrives on strong archetypes that endure and are rooted in psychological patterns. Psychoanalyst Carl Jung often used Tarot cards as a way to understand the patterns of human behaviour, regardless of where, when, and how we are born and raised. In this workshop, participants will use Tarot cards as a set of […]
Doug Johnstone will demonstrate all the ruthless editing skills you need to produce stories that grip readers from start to finish. Over 90 minutes, Johnstone will share the self-editing secrets necessary to making you a concise and effective writer. TIFA’s Creative Writing Masterclasses offer the opportunity to learn how to craft compelling stories and bring […]
Have you thought of writing a novel but found the prospect too daunting? Have you written novels but are eager to explore a more streamlined approach? Not sure where to start? Look no further! In her presentation HOW TO EAT AN ELEPHANT…AND OTHER PLOTTING ADVICE internationally bestselling thriller author Hannah Mary McKinnon will break down […]
“There are three sides to every story: Your side, my side, and the truth.” Robert Evans Reality is a matter of perspective. In this class lead by Robyn Harding, you’ll discuss the various options for writing from multiple points of view (POVs) and explore how the use of POV shapes the story. From creating twists, […]
Join us for an inspiring panel on writing historical mysteries as Genevieve Graham and Olivier Norek discuss how the historical events can be used as the setting for the perfect crime. Hear from the pros on the research methods and writing techniques that went into creating their novels and the benefits and pitfalls of their […]
Calling aspiring authors! Join our panel of experts from across the publishing industry in Canada, UK and the US, for a conversation filled with insights and advice from these who have the hard-won knowledge and experience of successfully getting a book from idea to print to reader. Get valuable tips and tricks on effectively pitching […]
What turns a crime story into a page-turner? In this fast-paced masterclass, award winning author Lilja Sigurðardóttir strips the crime novel down to its bare bones, revealing the essential structure that keeps readers hooked from the first crime to the final twist. Learn how to build tension, plant clues in plain sight, and deliver twists […]
In crime fiction, plot may hook the reader, but it is character that keeps them turning the pages. In this immersive workshop, international bestselling author and ‘Queen of French Noir, Johana Gustawsson, guides you through the art of creating complex, believable and emotionally resonant characters. Drawing inspiration from the famous questionnaire of Marcel Proust, participants […]
Go behind the scenes of digital publishing with Jessica Khadoo, Manager of Kobo Originals, as she offers an insider’s look at how stories are shaped from pitch to publication. Learn what makes a strong author pitch, how the editorial process unfolds, and what goes into designing the perfect cover. Jessica will also share insights into […]
Get the inside scoop on self-publishing from Tara Cremin, Director of Kobo Writing Life. This in-depth panel with the KWL team will cover everything you need to know to take your romance writing career into your own hands. Learn how Kobo Writing Life empowers authors to publish independently and build sustainable careers in today’s digital […]
Step inside the world of romance editing with editors Joni Di Placido and Rachel Wharton of Page & Proof Editorial. Whether you’re an aspiring author or simply curious about the editorial process, Joni and Rachel will share valuable insights into the romance genre, common editorial challenges, and tips for crafting stories that resonate with readers […]
Bestselling author Jenny Colgan will discuss how to polish your first book and navigate commercial publishing. Come with all the nitty-gritty questions! TIFA’s Creative Writing Masterclasses offer the opportunity to learn how to craft compelling stories and bring captivating characters to life through hands-on lessons from acclaimed authors and industry experts. This is a 90-minute […]
Who says the road to happily ever after has to be smooth, tidy, or even all that “happy”? Join authors Kristin Cast and Ellie K. Wilde as they dig into the beloved (and sometimes eye-roll-inducing) happily ever after. What makes a satisfying ending? When do you bend the rules, and when do you blow them […]
What is it about romance that keeps readers coming back for more? Authors Farah Heron, Amy James, and Jackie Khalilieh reflect on why they love the genre and explore its timeless appeal. From emotional connection and hope to the joy of happy endings, they’ll discuss what makes romance uniquely powerful and how it continues to […]
Every author’s path to publication is unique. H. Leighton Dickson, Rebecca Fisseha, and Emily Ohanjanians share their personal journeys from debut novels to navigating the publishing world. They’ll discuss the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way, offering insight and encouragement for aspiring writers. Moderated by Sonica Mizerski Limited space available. Arrive early to […]
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT Want your happily-ever-afters to feel hard-won? Join USA Today Bestselling author Bailey Hannah as she explores how to turn character wounds, desires, messy emotions, and external obstacles into heartfelt conflict and delicious tension. Bring your characters and their baggage, and get ready to make them (and readers) feel everything. TIFA’s Creative Writing Masterclasses offer […]
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT Join Nisha J. Tuli, USA Today Bestselling author of Trial of the Sun Queen, as she talks about the fundamentals of writing romantasy, including how to balance the fantasy and romance aspects of your plot, how to create characters that your readers want to root for, and how to sustain […]
BookTok has transformed the way readers discover romance, turning unexpected titles into viral sensations overnight. Authors Briar Boleyn and Lily Chu dive into the impact of this powerful community on the genre. They’ll discuss how BookTok shapes reading trends, the challenges and joys of having a book catch fire online, and what it means for authors trying to […]
From enemies to lovers, fake dating, and the ever-iconic second chance at love, tropes are the beating heart of romance fiction. Authors Melodie Edwards, Jenny Holiday, and Emily Ohanjanians unpack why readers can’t get enough of familiar storylines told in fresh, surprising ways. Together they’ll explore how tropes evolve with each generation, how they reflect cultural […]
Do you dream of writing hilarious meet-cutes and heart-warming happily ever afters, but don’t know where to start? Look no further! Join bestselling author Holly Cassidy aka Hannah Mary McKinnon for a Writing Romance for Beginners workshop. Explore the romance genre, discover your audience, develop your characters, and learn about pitfalls to avoid. This 90-minute […]
Writers Collective of Canada moderates a compelling panel discussion around the power of writing and storytelling to transform lives and strengthen communities. Re/writing Connection represents an important opportunity to showcase the role of art in Canadians’ lives: how writing and creativity can build strength and resilience, ignite community and address the national crisis in isolation. […]
When we write with others, we discover ourselves! Join Writers Collective of Canada in a one-hour expressive writing workshop that will broaden your perspective, ignite your imagination and inspire your authentic voice. WCC is a charitable organization that inspires exploratory writing in community to empower every voice, celebrate every story, and change the world. No […]
