lsj novel writing course

[Popplepie]

has anyone done the lsj novel writing course? any good? or are there better courses to do online? I'm afraid budget is limited £500 max which rules out most others I have seen.

Hi,
I did a creative writing course about 10 years ago and I learned a little. However I've learned far more by reading AbsoluteWrite.com and contributing there. Lots of great experience. I also set up my own writers' group where we're all beginners but encourage each other.

Have you written much yet? If so, you may feel a course would be right for you, but if not, I'd recommend writing a lot first, reading/contriibuting on writing forum and then choosing to spend your money on writers' conferences or suchlike.

I would recommend online writing groups more than courses. You can learn structure from a book - but you need to workshop prose. Or check out a writer you admire. Sometimes newer writers - but one who produce good work - have such courses.

Or Arvon?

that's really helpful. thanks! I have written a fair amount in the past but am struggling to make time with working and a 1yo. I hadn't heard of online groups before will check those out.

I'd agree that you can get a lot out of online writing groups and forums like AbsoluteWrite.com, and they don't cost anything.
If your budget is limited, save your £500 until you have learnt everything you can from all the free resources, and a few inexpensive creative writing books, and then you will be in a position to make an informed choice about how to spend the money, whether on writing lessons or a conference or a paid critique.