"I went into Gina's novel writing class knowing nothing about writing a novel. Truly, zilch! I came out the other side of the seven weeks with a solid outline, a first chapter, and an indispensable toolbox of novel-writing techniques and practices. Gina gives excellent feedback on the writing but the real gift of the class is how Gina trains and supports the writer."
-- Emmy Award-Winning Producer/Writer Bryan Korn
“If you've ever thought of writing a novel, I can't recommend Gina's class enough. I left feeling like I had more than enough tools to begin tackling my work on my own, and Gina's love for teaching and enthusiasm for everyone's projects has me feeling very motivated to keep going. They kept class feeling grounded in reality while also inspiring—a difficult task for the enormous undertaking of writing a novel. And Gina made the vulnerable business of sharing work easy, partially due to the environment they fostered in class but also through their thoughtfulness in lesson planning and weekend inspiration, which was tailored toward all of our projects. I can't wait to read the novels that all of my new friends are writing!”
-- Jen Jarnagin, playwright/actor
”I loved this class! You come in thinking you're going to at least get a chapter but the class has more texture than that! Gina is fully available outside of class….You get a judgement free zone which is great since being a writer can feel so fragile. And you get a deeper understanding of what the whole writing a novel thing is about by someone who is a successful novel writer! But this class is work! We have writing homework and reading homework so it's best to come in committed. Then again it is a a judgement free zone. Play!”
-- Kendra Augustin, Playwright
"Gina’s Writing Your First Novel Class was amazing. Gina said you will have your first chapter by the end of class. I did not believe it, but I was intrigued. I have not written a word in decades. I had a first chapter by the end of class. Gina teaches you the tools and gives you guidance throughout. I am excited to keep writing. My old passion for writing has been rekindled by Gina’s class….My kids are Gina’s age, and they can tell you I am a harsh critic of everything. I am telling you I am a believer in Gina’s Class. Don’t miss out! Enroll and find your voice and passion.”
—Roxanne Graves, RET, RN
“Gina facilitates a lovely, fun, and supportive space that is great for writers of all experience levels. I felt like I was back in my BFA program. Not only do you get great feedback on your work, but Gina sends thoughtful and personalized inspirations every week that you can use in the moment or come back to when you feel stuck. I came in with a loose idea for a memoir and left after 7 weeks (that went by far too quickly) with a complete outline for my book, a first chapter that I’m incredibly proud of, several more chapters in progress, and new friends whose work I can’t wait to see in print.”
-Kylie Justine, essayist
“Gina’s teaching tone is constructive and encouraging. Gina’s method of story assembly and tool creation continues to help me write my novel even after class has ended. I heartily recommend.”
— Caleb R.
How to get started: Writing a novel
Registration is now open!
Do you want to stretch your creative muscles? Learn how to write in a new medium? Or have you always had the dream to write a novel but aren’t sure how to get started - or how to keep going? Then this class is for you.
I know there are many folks who want to write a novel but have trouble figuring out how to start and how to keep going (I was one of them!) - and that’s why I designed this class.
Over the course of 7 weeks, you'll create a toolkit full of writing tools and will walk away from class with a synopsis, an outline (including character descriptions) and the first chapter of your novel written. In order to keep the momentum going, we’ll have an 8th one-on-one session a few months after class has ended where I’ll read and give feedback on all the work you’ve done.
Lessons are a combination of lectures and craft exercises designed to help you develop your narrative voice and structure your novel. Students will have weekly writing assignments, as well as short intentional reading assignments which will go hand in hand with their writing.
Classes are capped at 7 students. This class is designed for those writing fiction novels/novellas/novelletes or creative non-fiction like memoirs, personal essay collections or autofiction across any age group and genre. This class is not suitable for those looking to write graphic novels, short story collections, picture books or journalism. If you have any questions about the suitability of your project or about class, please reach out!
E-mail ginafemiasecondemail@gmail.com to register.
Class Dates:
October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
November 6 & 14*
6-8:30pm ET
On Zoom.
$400 ($50 deposit due upon registration)
Reach out to create a payment plan!
* Note: Last class is on a Thursday