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
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 2026, 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 that deeply resonates with contemporary readers.
What You Will Learn
Genre Expertise: Discover what makes historical fiction unique and how to harness its distinctive power.
Character Development: Learn to breathe life into historical figures and create convincing and relatable period characters
Authentic Settings: Learn to use descriptive detail to create compelling historical worlds that transport your reader into the past.
Period Voice: Develop your skills in crafting dialogue and narrative voice that feel historically authentic
Avoiding the Pitfalls: Understand the common traps of clichéd characters, costume-drama history, and unintentional parody.
Research tools: Learn how to use historical research to serve not overwhelm your story.
Course Details
The course is held on the last Friday of each month from 10.30 am – 6pm from January to December 2026 (excluding July and August). The course starts on Friday 30th January 2026. You will be part of a carefully selected group of 8 writers maximum, meeting in person throughout the year.
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.
Course members will be given priority booking for an exclusive one week summer writing retreat with Rebecca held in July in a stunning 17th century castle in Italy.
Location:
Master the Art of Historical Fiction is held at Caper Books, a charming independent bookshop 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 2026 course is £2,750
A non-refundable deposit of £275 is required to secure your place. Course payment must be made in full by 30th December 2025.
How to apply
Applications are by interview plus submission of a short outline of your project (200 words max) and a sample of your writing (500 words max).
To begin your application, sign up for your free 20 minute consultation with Rebecca using the box below.
