Workshop: Plot Without Panic – Planning a Novel that Actually Works

Ever had a great idea for a novel… but don't know where to start? Or worse... you started all right, but got stuck halfway through! Sound familiar? This practical, supportive workshop, led by creative writing tutor and bestselling author Russ Thomas, will demystify plot and show you how stories really work.

You will explore conflict, character desire, and story events – and how they combine to drive a compelling narrative forward. Through guided discussion and handson exercises, you’ll develop a clear, flexible plan for your own novel, whether you’re starting from scratch or untangling a work-in-progress. No rigid formulas, no creative strangulation – just tools you can adapt to your own process. You’ll leave with a plotted outline, renewed confidence, and a clearer sense of where your story is going next.

Russ Thomas lives in Sheffield, UK. He grew up in the 80s reading anything he could find at the library and largely avoiding the great outdoors. After a few “proper” jobs (among them: pot-washer, optician’s receptionist, supermarket warehouse operative, call-centre telephonist and storage salesman), he discovered the joys of bookselling, where he could talk to people about books all day. His critically acclaimed, bestselling crime series, set in Sheffield featuring DS Adam Tyler, consists of Firewatching (Times bestseller; Waterstones Thriller of the Month), Nighthawking (Times Book of the Month), Cold Reckoning and Sleeping Dogs.

https://russthomasauthor.com/

“I use a flexible, personalised approach, and offer writers honest, encouraging feedback. My mission is to help writers unlock their voice, and to give them the tools they need to see their stories come alive.” Russ Thomas

Saturday 16 May

11am-1pm

Amped, 29 Zetland Street, HD1 2RA

£12 (£10 conc), free for essential carers accompanying a ticket holder

Age Guidance: 16+

Access Guide: contact the venue on: [email protected]; 01484 361932

Access: if you have specific access needs or seating preferences, please contact our Admin team at [email protected] with your request.

Concession & Carers: For further information on concession and essential carer tickets, please visit our FAQ's page.

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Host or Publisher Huddersfield Literature Festival