The “word-spider” below is an example of just one of the many ways we might explore the possibilities of an idea, a character or a story.

"Emma is one of the best editors I know. She is incisive with her analysis, clear with her advice and generous with her encouragement. An endless source of thoughtful wisdom, she picks apart the trickier aspects of structure and technique and presents them in ways that everyone can get something useful out of, from beginner to experienced writer.” - Jessica Ruston

"I loved every minute of it. Emma is a generous and supportive tutor. She is knowledgeable about her subject and enthusiastic about sharing that knowledge. Her passion is infectious. Although I am an experienced writer, I learnt a lot during that weekend. Emma is great fun - which always helps!" - Lindsay Stanberry-Flynn

"Emma Darwin is a rare thing - a gifted writer and a talented, intuitive teacher who is able to dig into technical subtleties and the horrifying mess of the first draft with wit, confidence and respect. She's not the kind of tutor or editor who dishes out a list of one size fits all rules. Instead, what you will get - what I got - is a nuanced reading, some shrewd questions and support and encouragement as you find your own way to turn your project into its own best self." - Jenn Ashworth

“I have been trying to get my novel completed for the last 5 years having started it 10 years ago. Despite re-writes and getting feedback, I must have been over it more than 30 times. The Blue Pencil seminar with Emma Darwin was outstanding. It’s the best event I’ve ever attended and made total sense!” - Peter O-S

"I have completed courses with the Writer's Bureau, Writers Forge, Open University, and more, and I can say that this was the one I learnt the most from. The teachers were exceptional." - Gavin Tomlinson

"The Fiction Masterclass was really helpful and Emma was approachable and enthusiastic. Would do this all over again."

"Those two are just magic ... what I eventually submit will be a far better, far more professional manuscript." 

"The course was absolutely brilliant ... My only regret is not having taken this course a year ago!"

"Every moment was brilliant and I learnt so much."

"Emma Darwin is an outstanding tutor."

"Thank you to Emma Darwin, looking on with a protective eye and then bursting onto the scene with a fantastically concise and illuminating post on absolutely everything we could ever possibly ask about."