Master the art of historical fiction with this exclusive one-year course in Oxford led by award-winning historical novelist Rebecca Abrams
Master the Art of Historical Fiction
30 January 2027 - 10 December 2027
Transform your passion for the past into compelling historical fiction under the expert guidance of acclaimed author and creative writing teacher Rebecca Abrams. Whether you’re just starting out or already embarked on a historical novel, this unique, year-long course will take your writing to the next stage.
Meeting once a month in person from January to December, this is a very special opportunity to join a group of enthusiastic and committed fellow-writers and be supported every step of the way in your own writing process.
Master the Art of Historical Fiction will equip you with all the essential techniques you need to create authentic, engaging historical fiction while keeping you focussed, motivated and inspired every step of the way.
YOU WILL LEARN…
Genre Expertise: what makes historical fiction unique and how to harness its distinctive power.
Character Development: how to create convincing and compelling historical characters
Authentic Settings: how to use descriptive detail to build your historical world
Period Voice: how to craft a narrative voice that feels historically authentic
Historical dialogue:: how to get your characters talking in ways that ring true to your readers
Narrative structure: how to build and sustain narrative momentum from first page to last.
Research: how to deploy your historical research to serve your story, not overwhelm it - or you!
AND MUCH MORE !
Course Details
The course is held on the last Friday of each month from 10.30 am – 6pm from January to December 2027 (excluding July and August). The course starts on Friday 29th January 2027.
Each monthly session includes taught seminars, group workshopping and one-to-one tutorials with Rebecca. Between sessions you will be given reading and writing assignments to deepen your understanding of specific technical and creative writing skills. You will also benefit from inspiring and practical advice from guest speakers with industry expertise, including writers, agents and publishers.
You will be part of a carefully selected group of 9 writers maximum, meeting in person throughout the year. Course members will be given priority booking for an exclusive one week summer writing retreat with Rebecca held in July in a stunning location in Italy.
Location
Master the Art of Historical Fiction is held at Caper Books, a delightful independent bookshop and creative hub in central East Oxford. Caper Books is easily accessed by car and public transport. There is a wide range of great cafes, restaurants and shops nearby offering eating options for all tastes. Local accommodation to suit all budgets is available for those wanting to say overnight before or after the course.
Cost
The fee for the 2027 course is £2,900
A non-refundable deposit of £350 is required to secure your place. Course payment must be made in full by 30th December 2026.
“Rebecca is a superb tutor and brings out the best in every member of the class.”
How to apply
Applications are by interview, plus submission of a short outline of your project (300 words max) and a sample of your writing (500 words max).
To begin your application, register for your FREE 20-minute introductory consultation with Rebecca to discuss your creative writing goals. No commitment to the full course or payment is needed at this stage. Rebecca would love to hear from you and answer any questions you have about the course.
Book your FREE Consultation
Register for your FREE 20-minute introductory consultation with Rebecca to discuss your creative writing goals, ask any questions, and find out how the course could help you.