A Once Off Workshop with author and writing tutor Martin J. P. Devaney

Booking requested but not essential – drop in ! 

A novel lives or dies by its opening pages. The first chapter must capture a reader’s attention, establish character and voice, create curiosity, and persuade readers to turn the page. It is also the section most likely to determine whether an agent, editor or publisher continues reading.

Drawing on techniques from his book  The Art of Writing a Novel – The XYZ Method, this practical workshop will help participants develop, refine and strengthen the opening chapter of their novel. Through discussion, analysis, exercises and feedback, writers will learn how to create an opening that engages editors from the very first page.

Participants will examine successful examples from contemporary fiction and apply these techniques directly to their own work.

The crucial dos and don’ts of novel submissions are covered.

The workshop is open to writers at all levels—beginner, intermediate and advanced.

Martin JP Devaney

Martin J. P. Devaney is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, broadcaster and writing tutor with more than three decades of professional experience across literature, theatre, radio and television.

He is the author of The RTÉ Writer’s Guide and the recently published The Art of Writing a Novel – The XYZ Method. His work has been produced and broadcast by RTÉ, the BBC, the Abbey Theatre and theatres in Ireland and internationally. He has written radio dramas, comedy series, short stories, television programmes and short films, and has produced more than ninety-nine television programmes.

Alongside his own writing career, Martin has taught creative writing workshops for many years and has worked with numerous emerging writers at the beginning of their careers.

His most recent novel was published in the UK in 2024. He lives in Ireland and continues to teach workshops on fiction, storytelling and the craft of writing.

For more information please visit martinjpdevaney.com