Crime Writing with Jane Casey

Day One: Character

The most important part of writing a crime novel isn’t the plot but the people: character is fundamental to a good novel. We’ll look at how to create a memorable, believable character and the tools that can help you introduce them to the reader while avoiding stodgy descriptions. How can dialogue and action help make your characters feel real? We’ll also talk about good villains, bad heroes and violence: why your choice of victim really matters.

Day Two: Narrative

Building on the character work, what difference does perspective make to how you tell a story? We’ll discuss the pros and cons of first person vs third person, the authorial voice, what the readers need to know –and when – and the importance of playing fair with your clues. We’ll explore the concept of psychic distance. We’ll also talk about settings – how to decide where the action happens and how to set the scene for your reader.

Day Three: Plot

Plan it out or pull a thread and see where it takes you? Tips and tricks for turning your idea into a page-turning story. We’ll discuss the rules of plot structure – and when to break them – pace, hooks, plotlines, twists and the importance of an ending.

Each session will include written exercises, opportunities for class discussion and recommendations for further reading. 

Colaiste Pobail Bheanntrai is closed for the summer due to building works taking place and so the five workshops – Novel, Crime, Poetry, Threat of Writing and Short Story – will now be taking place in St Goban’s College, Seskin, Bantry. St Goban’s College’s Eircode is  P75 CY26.

Directions: From Wolfe Tone Square, turn into New Street and continue on up the hill past Bantry Library. Turn left onto Chapel Street and continue on this road, with St Finbarr’s Church on the right. The road bends to the right and continue straight. You will see the road on your right leading to Colaiste Pobail Bheanntrai, the usual workshop venue. Do not turn up this road but continue on until the next turning on the right. It is signposted St Finbarr’s School. Turn right here and continue past St Finbarr’s School until the end of the road where you’ll see a row of three houses. The road bends to the right and you will see St Goban’s College car park on your right. Please use this car park. Please follow the signs to the Reception where registration will take place.