You’ve had this story inside you, but every time you sit down to write, you feel stuck.
Maybe you’re overwhelmed by where to even begin – plot, characters, structure? Or you’ve started writing before, only to lose momentum halfway through.
You’re not alone. Writing a novel can feel like an impossible task without the right guidance and support.
But imagine this: 8 weeks from now, you’ve got a clear plan for your story, characters that breathe off the page, a strong opening, and the confidence to keep going. That’s exactly what this course is designed to give you.
How does this sound?
The Novel Blueprint is a live, 8-week course that will help you:
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Develop your novel’s concept into a compelling story.
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Create characters readers will fall in love with (or love to hate).
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Build a structure that keeps your plot moving and your readers hooked.
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Write an opening that grabs attention and sets the tone for your novel.
This isn’t just another pre-recorded course. You’ll be learning live with leading author Michael Donkor as he guides you, step-by-step, through the process of starting and laying the foundation for your novel.
Michael Donkor
Meet Your Instructor
Michael Donkor studied English at Wadham College, Oxford and then undertook a Masters in Creative Writing at Royal Holloway, London. The Observer named him as one of 2018's best debut authors for his first novel Hold (4th Estate) and in 2019, he was longlisted for the International Dylan Thomas Prize and shortlisted for the Desmond Elliott Prize. His second novel Grow Where They Fall was published by Penguin in 2024. He has judged the Betty Trask Prize, regularly reviews for The Guardian and teaches for Arvon and the National Centre for Writing (UK).
The Novel Blueprint
8-Week Course
In this eight-week course, you’ll shape the foundation of your novel — from premise and character to voice, world-building, and plot. With guided prompts, feedback, and a clear plan for moving forward, you’ll leave with the tools and confidence to keep writing long after the course ends.
Here's what you'll learn, week by week:
You’ll identify your novel’s central premise and uncover the animating questions at its heart — the ideas that will guide your story forward. This week lays the foundation for clarity, purpose, and momentum.
Great novels begin with unforgettable characters. You’ll dive into who your protagonist is, what makes them distinct, and how secondary characters shape their world. Through guided prompts, you’ll bring your characters to life on the page.
This week deepens your character work by exploring backstory, emotional development, and hidden motivations. You’ll uncover what you don’t yet know about your characters and discover how their past shapes their present. Expect to leave with a more layered, authentic protagonist.
Every writer has a voice and this is where you’ll find yours. You’ll experiment with style, explore how narration and dialogue work together, and learn to make your sentences sing. By the end, you’ll feel more confident about how you want your novel to sound.
Characters don’t exist in a vacuum — their worlds shape them. This week you’ll practice building immersive settings that feel alive, using metaphor, atmosphere, and perspective. You’ll learn how to make places as vivid and meaningful as your characters.
With strong characters and a vivid world in place, it’s time to shape your story. You’ll reflect on your progress, explore different approaches to plotting, and experiment with structure. By the end of the week, you’ll have the beginnings of a roadmap for your novel.
This week is all about refining your plot. You’ll look at your story’s “loud” and “quiet” moments, examine your midpoint, and receive peer feedback. Together, you’ll create a realistic writing plan to carry you beyond the course.
Writing a novel is a long adventure — this week equips you for the road ahead. You’ll stock your “first aid box” with strategies for overcoming creative challenges, reflect on what you’ve learned, and set intentions for the next stage of your project. By the end, you’ll feel prepared, supported, and excited to continue writing.
Here’s what you’ll get when you join:
8 Live Weekly Sessions
Interactive, 2-hour classes with Michael Donkor, covering everything from story structure to character development.
Weekly Writing Assignments
Practical exercises to help you apply what you’ve learned and make real progress on your novel.
Peer Support
Lifetime Access to Recordings
Connect with a community of fellow writers who are on the same journey as you.
Can’t make a session? No problem. You’ll have access to all class recordings to revisit whenever you need.
This course is
for you if:
- You’ve always wanted to write a novel but don’t know where to start.
- You’ve started writing before but struggled to stay consistent or focused.
- You want expert guidance to help you build a strong foundation for your story.
- You’re ready to take your writing seriously and finally make progress on your dream.
A Bonus You'll Receive When You Sign Up...
Get 2 Months Free Inside Our Writers’ Membership
- Monthly Writing Workshops led by published authors to sharpen your skills.
- Exclusive Author Interviews offering insights and inspiration.
- An Online Forum for peer feedback, connection, and support.
- 3x/Week Writers’ Hour for dedicated silent writing sessions to keep you accountable.
- Discounts on Future Courses and so much more.
This is your chance to stay connected with a community of like-minded writers, maintain momentum, and continue growing as a writer.
Your Ongoing Creative Sanctuary
Essential:
Pro:
Use the code NOVEL50 to get $50 off now.
Early Bird Pricing ends on September 30, 2025.
Pay In Full: $747
Payment plan:
6 payments of $133
Pay In Full: $1,097
Payment plan:
6 payments of $187
- Entire 8-Week Course and All Recordings
- Student Forum for Feedback and Sharing
- 2 Months Free Inside Our Writers' Membership
Everything in the Essential Tier, Plus:
- Editing of up to 2,000 Words by Your Instructor, Michael Donkor
- 45-Minute 1-1 Call with Michael to Discuss Your Work
- Post-Call Report With Feedback
Early Bird Pricing expires on September 30th
Early Bird Pricing expires on September 30th
Online via Zoom, which is accessible from anywhere in the world.
For feedback, we have a private forum for students to engage with each other's work.
Where does the course take place?
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The classes are from 6:30-8:30pm Lisbon/London time, which is 10:30am-12:30pm PST and 1:30-3:30pm EST.
***Please note that due to differing Daylight Savings schedules between the US and Europe, the class on October 28 will be 11:30am-1:30pm PST and 2:30-4:30pm EST. The class time remains the same in Europe. All other classes follow the original schedule.
What time is each class?
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The course starts on October 22, 2025 and takes place every Wednesday for 8 weeks.
When does the course start and how long does it run?
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Got questions? We’ve got answers.
Yes, so you can catch up if you miss a class or want to revisit the material. The recordings from each session exist inside your course portal.
What if I can’t attend a class? Are sessions recorded?
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No. The course is designed for both beginners and seasoned writers who want structure and guidance.
Do I need previous writing experience?
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Perfect. The course will help you deepen your characters, strengthen your voice, and develop your plot.
What if I’ve already started writing my novel?
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We'll have a private student forum where you can post your work and receive feedback from other students.
If you opt for our Pro Tier, you will receive editing of up to 2,000 words, a 45-minute 1-1 call, and a follow-up report by your instructor, Michael Donkor.
Will I get feedback on
my writing?
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A developed premise, layered characters, a sense of your novel’s voice and world, a draft plot outline, and a realistic writing plan to keep you moving forward. Once your novel has momentum, it's much easier to keep going.
What will I walk away with at the end?
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Just fill out the form below to instantly receive your free 26-page guide on how to turn the ideas in your head into a handy, one-page outline for your book.
From Idea to Outline:
Create a One-Page Plan
for Your Book
free download