Writing Clinic

Stuck on a short story? Need nuanced feedback on a novel chapter, or part of your play or screenplay? Want help with plot or pacing, structure or setting? Our Writing Clinic is for you! You’ll get a page or two of concise feedback on up to 4,000 words* of your work (up to 15 pages for plays or screenplays), focusing on your specific queries or concerns, from one of our expert tutors, as well as a thirty minute follow-up chat, giving you access to personalised writing support for just £60. To book a Writing Clinic, email james@hastingswritersworkshop.com, or drop us a line via the contact page!

*for longer extracts, more extensive written feedback, or ongoing one-to-one support, please get in touch, or consider our mentoring service.

  • I contacted the Hastings Writers Workshop to ask James to critique two story openings when I wanted detailed feedback at short notice. He was able to fit my tight timescale and provided two reports plus additional reading material to broaden my thinking around my subjects. His comments prompted a few necessary alterations it would have taken me far longer to land on without his help. I recommend his critiquing services to anyone looking for a thorough and thoughtful approach.

    Claire Allen, 2023 Primadonna Prize runner-up

  • James showed considerable attention to detail in his written feedback on my early draft; his careful untangling and helpful margin notes will be a useful guide I’ll refer back to as I rewrite and revise. He’s the real deal.

    Heather Ryerson, writer and Arts Council England DYCP recipient

  • James' services in reworking my novel have been invaluable. I gave him a rough first draft and he (very kindly) made me feel good and hopeful about the project while also providing constructive feedback helping to refocus it. I can't thank him enough. He divides his critique into sections such as characterisation, pacing, and themes, whatever needs to be addressed with the project you are working on. The time he took on writing notes and the detail he gave was thorough and rich with ideas, and more than I could have hoped for. I trust James with my words and feel incredibly lucky to be able to work with such a talented and generous editor. I would recommend his services to anyone who wants to write a novel and get it to the highest standard possible.

    Halina Watts, journalist and author