CREATIVE WRITING COURSES ON PAXOS

‘CRIME WRITING': 30 SEPTEMBER - 7 OCTOBER 2013

This course covers the initial process and practicalities of writing a crime novel from taking the germ of an idea, through to a synopsis and a plan of the novel to the opening paragraph, chapter one, page one and beyond ... with lines that will hook the reader. 

It is suitable for all levels of ability and will be led by retired police officer and full-time crime writer, Nick Oldham, who has had 17 crime novels in his highly successful Henry Christie series of books published, including in 2011 'Facing Justice' and 'Instinct'. 

The course will be based round group tuition sessions on five mornings a week supplemented by individual tutorials.

Topics covered will include:  

• Operation Synopsis – why it's needed and how it helps to frame the story

• Police Procedure including Interview Techniques – what do we need to know, what can be discarded? Research.

• Finding the Body – creating atmosphere and tension, considering causes of death.

• The Hero – a guy with a need.

• The Villain – a guy with a desire.

• Structure – plotting and getting the story from beginning to end.

• Kick Off with a Killer – the opening sentences / paragraphs to hook the reader.

• Smersh or Sleaze – the reality of criminality – world domination or day-to-day survival on the mean streets?

• Operational Orders – planning ahead, getting started, considering others, getting support.

Afternoons will be free, leaving plenty of time either to explore Paxos or simply relax.

Cost: The course costs £845 per person, which includes tuition as described above, accommodation in a shared twin room in a villa with private swimming pool near Loggos, one of the three main villages on Paxos, return transfers between Corfu Airport and your accommodation on Paxos, breakfast, 2 lunches and 4 dinners (with wine) in local tavernas, pre-dinner drinks on 4 evenings, and any local transport required in connection with the course. There is a supplement of £95 per person for sole use of a twin/double room. Any optional activities such as Greek cookery, Greek dancing, boat trips and walks are at additional cost.

For full details of what is included in the cost of the course and of the accommodation, please see ‘Writing Courses Further Information’.

Alternative accommodation and extending your holiday: If you already have your own accommodation, then it is usually possible just to join the group tuition sessions. We can also help you to find accommodation if you would like to stay somewhere other than our shared villas or would like to extend your holiday and spend a few additional days on Paxos or a few days on Corfu, either before or after the writing course. Please contact us to discuss the options. 

To Book: Please read our Booking Conditions and the Important Information section of this website and then complete and submit an On-Line Booking Form. 'Crime Writing' is open to people of all ages and abilities aged 18 or over. However, Paxos is a relatively hilly island and we therefore do not feel that it is suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.  

Second Holiday/Course Discount: We will give you a discount of £40 if you book any two holidays or courses in our current programme.

Group Discounts: If you are a group of four or more who wish to book 'Crime Writing', please contact us to see if we can offer you a discount.

Further Information: Do have a look round our website and, if you would like further information about any of our holidays and courses or about Paxos more generally, then please do not hesitate to Contact Us.