Bright Lights of The Novelry: Our 2025 Success Stories

As the year draws to a close, let’s take a moment to look back at the success stories of our writers from the past twelve months—members of our beloved community who have developed their manuscripts through our courses and gone on to secure agent representation, sign book deals, and celebrate their publication days. 

Every day, we work with writers from the conception of their idea right through to a submission-ready manuscript. Seeing their stories change and evolve throughout their year with us is an exciting privilege.

Our editors maintain close relationships with trusted literary agents worldwide, enabling us to guide our writers in crafting novels that resonate with the market. When we identify a writer whose manuscript is almost ready and who would be a great match for one of our trusted agents, we leap into action! We work closely with them to finesse their story and then offer them a spot on our bespoke submission service. This is where we help ambitious, talented writers take their first confident step into the publishing world.

We also want to take this opportunity to celebrate the milestones achieved by our writers who are still working on their manuscripts—anyone who came up with an idea that excited them, wrote the hallowed words “The End” on their first draft, or had the courage to kill some darlings! We salute each and every one of you who showed up for yourself, your characters, and your future readers. We can’t wait to see your stories continue to grow and develop in the new year.

Without further ado, we’re proud to present our success story class of 2025.

Writers with books published this year

Clare Leslie Hall

The hotly anticipated Broken Country by The Novelry graduate Clare Leslie Hall was published globally, sold over a million copies in hardback—and became a Reese’s Book Club pick! 

‍Broken Country explores the deadly consequences of a love triangle in an English farming village as dangerous secrets from the past resurface. On top of glowing reviews from bestselling authors like Chris Whitaker and Delia Owens, Broken Country was also a Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place Book Club Pick—and is being adapted into a movie by Sony’s 3000 Pictures and Reese Witherspoon!

“Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall is an unforgettable story of love, loss, and the choices that shape our lives... but it’s also a masterfully crafted mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Seriously, that ending?! I did not see it coming.”—Reese Witherspoon

“Stirring and mysterious... fires directly at the human heart and hits the mark.”—Delia Owens, New York Times bestselling author of Where the Crawdads Sing

Helena Echlin

A graduate of The Novelry, Helena was introduced to her agents at Janklow & Nesbit through our bespoke submission service.

Published by Penguin Random House in the U.S. and Hachette in the U.K., Helena Echlin’s Clever Little Thing is a taut psychological thriller about a woman convinced her daughter has been possessed by her former babysitter, comparable to Ashley Audrain’s The Push and Zoje Stage’s Baby Teeth.

“Clever Little Thing taps into the heart of maternal fear and will shock you in the best way. This one will give you goose bumps.”—Ashley Elston, No.1 New York Times bestselling author of First Lie Wins‍

‍“Sharp and unflinching—a perfectly unnerving story.”—Ashley Audrain, New York Times bestselling author of The Push

My editor took my submission package to the next level. She gave me the perfect premise line, went over my first three chapters with her brilliant editorial eye, and gave masterful advice on my book’s timeline... She then handpicked the perfect agents and gave me the benefit of her industry wisdom throughout the entire submission process. I couldn’t recommend The Novelry more highly!
—Helena Echlin‍

Geoff Parkes

Geoff has completed several courses and The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment with The Novelry, and is represented by Catherine Wallace at High Spot Literary Agency. His debut novel, When the Deep Dark Bush Swallows You Whole, was published in Australia and New Zealand.

The first of a two-book publishing deal with Penguin Random House Australia, Geoff’s debut is based around the disappearance of a Finnish backpacker from her job in a shearing gang in rural New Zealand, and the impact this has on the life of her boyfriend—who, in trying to find out what happened, discovers more than he could ever have expected about his family and the small town he grew up in.

“A deftly wrought novel, compelling and complex. I loved it.”—Margaret Hickey

“A gripping murder mystery set in 1980s small-town New Zealand, capturing the stifling atmosphere of a community steeped in secrets. With relentless suspense and a rich cast of characters, this impressive debut keeps the reader guessing to the very end.”—Rose Carlyle

I’m extremely grateful for the professional expertise and friendly assistance of Lizzy Goudsmit Kay and Tash Barsby at The Novelry, who ensured that at every contact point, the novel was made better than what it was before.
—Geoff Parkes

Cathryn Kemp

A graduate of The Novelry, Cathryn’s gorgeous historical fiction novel, A Poisoner’s Tale, was published in paperback by Penguin Random House in the U.K. and Union Square & Co. in the U.S.

A dark and gripping feminist retelling of the spellbinding legend of the notorious Italian poisoner, Giulia Tofana, A Poisoner’s Tale won the HWA Debut Crown Award!

“Gorgeous... brimming with rich detail and intrigue.”—C.J. Cooke

Kelly Mullen

Kelly took The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment with us at The Novelry, and this year her debut novel, This is Not a Game, was published by Dutton Books—an imprint of Penguin Random House in the U.S. and the U.K.

Get ready for murder and Martinis at a glamorous island manor with a grandmother–granddaughter sleuthing duo—and some dachshunds along the way—in This is Not a Game.

“A wonderfully vibrant take on the classic whodunit, This is Not a Game tackles the locked room mystery with warmth and humour, serving up a crime solving duo that I couldn’t stop rooting for. After finishing the book, I was craving three things – a visit to Mackinac island, a Gibson, and more from author Kelly Mullen!”—Kristen Perrin, author of How to Solve Your Own Murder

“Agatha Christie brought bang up to date in this innovative and funny spin on the classic country house murder. I adored Mullen’s intrepid sleuthing duo and loved unravelling this locked-room mystery with them.”—Clare Mackintosh, New York Times bestselling author of I Let You Go

The Novelry offers an incredibly supportive environment for new writers like me when we need insightful feedback and creative inspiration. I use their resources daily!
—Kelly Mullen

Olesya Lyuzna

The Novelry graduate Olesya Lyuzna’s debut novel, Glitter in the Dark, was published by Mysterious Press.

Glitter in the Dark is a historical mystery novel that follows gin-swigging journalist Ginny Dugan, who gets in over her head when she sets out to investigate the kidnapping of one of Harlem’s hottest singers.

“What Taylor Jenkins Reid did for Old Hollywood with her indomitable Evelyn Hugo, Olesya Lyuzna does for the irrepressible Ginny Dugan in Glitter in the Dark… Lyuzna’s prose is razor-sharp... I can’t remember the last time I was this excited about a debut!”―Halley Sutton, USA Today bestselling author of The Hurricane Blonde

“An utterly alluring dance through Jazz Age New York City, Olesya Lyuzna’s Glitter in the Dark seduces you from the minute you meet its heroine… Lyuzna weaves a gold-threaded tale of glamour and danger. A striking debut.”―Megan Abbott, New York Times bestselling author of Beware the Woman

Carla Jenkins

After taking The Novelry’s courses, Carla was introduced to her agent, Madeleine Milburn at MMLA, through our bespoke submission service. Carla’s debut novel, Fifty Minutes, was published in hardback and paperback in the U.K. by Trapeze/Orion Books, an imprint of Hachette.

In Fifty Minutes, 20-year-old Dani is desperate to overcome her demons, leave her dead-end job, and return to her hard-won place at university. Using her limited earnings, she decides to start seeing a psychotherapist.

Richard Goode is educated, sophisticated, and worldly—everything Dani aspires to be. As he intuitively unpicks her self-loathing, Dani assumes the fantasies she’s developing about him live only in her head. That is, until things take a shocking turn...

Descending into a maelstrom of twisted desire, manipulation, and mistrust, the power struggle between Dani and Richard escalates until she’s forced to make a decision she never would have anticipated.

“This is one helluva read. Incredibly raw and visceral.”—Harriet Tyce, author of Blood Orange

“Thought-provoking and honest.”—Winnie Li, author of Complicit

From the initial idea for my novel to the point of getting agent representation, The Novelry were on hand with support and advice. The dream was always to get an agent and so to receive interest from several was mind-blowing—to have Madeleine Milburn within that list was more than I could have hoped for. I’m thrilled!
—Carla Jenkins

Joanne Kormylo

Joanne took The Novelry’s courses and The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment with us, and this year her debut novel, The Resistance Daughter, was published by Hodder and Stoughton (an imprint of Hachette) in the U.K.

The first in a two-book deal, The Resistance Daughter is an utterly sweeping and unputdownable historical fiction novel, inspired by true stories of WWII and perfect for fans of Anna Stuart and Soraya M. Lane.

“A stunning debut.”—Robert Dugoni

“Action-packed and full of drama... A must-read.”—Kathleen McGurl

I discovered The Novelry when I was ready to give up... I knew my work had potential, but I lacked the expertise to identify and fix manuscript weaknesses essential for attracting a publisher. I highly recommend The Novelry based on my positive experience.
—Joanne Kormylo

Becky Hunter

This year, You Make My Heart Stop, the heart-rending romantic novel from The Novelry graduate Becky Hunter, was published in the U.S. by Forever, an imprint of Hachette.

A young woman with a life-threatening medical condition must decide between her life on earth and her soulmate—who she can only be with in the afterlife—in this magical exploration of loss, love, and fate, perfect for fans of Kirsty Greenwood and Jojo Moyes.

“A swoonsome love story with echoes of The Time Traveler’s Wife.”―Good Housekeeping

“What a gorgeously written, emotionally profound story! You won’t be able to put it down.”―Kirsty Greenwood, bestselling author of The Love of My Afterlife

“A magical, memorable, moving book.”―Sarah J. Harris, author of Meet Me On the Bridge

I found The Novelry at a time when I was ready to give up. I was feeling very low on confidence and knew I’d be my own worst enemy if left to my own devices. Signing up to The Novelry’s course was just the thing I needed—it provided me with structure, support and encouragement. I was inspired to get writing and keep going, and the course made me think more deeply about plot and character, so that I had a finished manuscript that needed relatively little editorial change when I got to the end.
—Becky Hunter

Catherine Greer

The Bittersweet Bakery Café, a novel full of sweet-treat escapism by The Novelry graduate Catherine Greer, was published by Allen & Unwin in Australia.

Audrey Sweetman escapes to the Aussie seaside village of Whitehaven Bay after her career and marriage fall into tatters overnight. When Audrey learns she’s facing financial disaster, the villagers help her launch the haphazard Bittersweet Bakery, targeting Divorce Parties for Sydney’s elite divorcees and selling fortune cookies that tell the bitter truth.

“Funny, heartbreaking and rich with characters, grit and determination. A page-turner.”—Susan Duncan, bestselling author of Finding Joy in Oyster Bay

“A sparkling novel with a tender heart, The Bittersweet Bakery Café offers a delicious take on reinvention. Who would have guessed that a fortune cookie could transform your life?”—Sophie Beaumont, bestselling author of The Paris Cooking School

K.A. Merson

This year, The Language of the Birds, the debut novel of K.A. Merson, a graduate of The Novelry, was published in the U.S.A. by Ballantine Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. 

In The Language of the Birds, a brilliant but solitary teenager must unlock ciphers, unearth buried clues, and reckon with the outside world as she pursues an ancient secret in this brainteasing, puzzle-filled mystery.

“A high-stakes treasure hunt and an intricate puzzle box of a novel filled with hope, history, and all kinds of heart... A delight for readers who enjoy sifting through clues and poring over evidence alongside the hero, racing to see which of you can crack the mystery first.”—Ernest Cline, bestselling author of Ready Player One

“A mind-bending dive into the power of the puzzle... Sweeping across the American West, the story takes in ancient mythologies, classic literature, and sinister conspiracy theories to weave its own shade of magic... A mystery, crime, adventure, and coming-of-age tale all wrapped up in a treasure of a book.”—Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The Twyford Code and The Appeal

There may be numerous paths to publication, but I’d argue that most of them resemble the fire-swamp from The Princess Bride—long, winding, and full of danger. As such, it pays to hire guides who know the way and can identify the hazards. After making many of the changes suggested by The Novelry, my agent queries garnered significantly more interest... Even if you have a smart and supportive writing community (as I do), it can still really pay to hire professionals.
—K.A. Merson

Susie Bower

After graduating from The Novelry, Susie went on to sign with a top literary agent through our bespoke submission service, and has since published multiple children’s books. Her new novel, The Invisibles, a middle-grade mystery (and the seventh of Susie’s books), was published by Pushkin Children’s Press.

In the Land of Magic, four friends live a life filled with wonder. But there’s one rule they must not break: never set foot on the Island of Darkness. So, when one child does the unthinkable, they must all pay a terrible price—exile to Wasteland, the bleak world where only grown-ups live. For Grace, this fate is particularly cruel. She wakes up with no memory of her magical home, or how she ended up here... and the only clue to her past is guarded by two hostile and mysteriously invisible children.

As Grace uncovers the secrets of the Invisibles, she must work out a way to return home before Wasteland traps her forever...

“Another enchanting fantasy”—The Telegraph

I wailed to Louise at The Novelry that I had no ideas and she assured me that after the first week of The Novelry courses, I’d have something. She was right. I waited 66 years to get an agent. It was worth it.
—Susie Bower

Holly Race

This year saw the publication of the debut novel of Holly Race, a graduate of The Novelry. Six Wild Crowns, an adult fantasy novel, was published by Orbit, an imprint of Hachette—and it hit the Sunday Times bestseller list!

Six Wild Crowns is a fantasy re-imagining of Henry VIII’s wives from the perspective of Anne Boleyn and Jane Seymour. Our writing coach Tasha Suri called it “a beautiful feminist epic, a luscious and luminous read,” and fellow coach Bea Fitzgerald described it as “a thoroughly delectable fantasy that celebrates sisterhood and courageous truth while exposing the active maliciousness of patriarchy... An intricate, powerful, and utterly spectacular book. No one is ready for it.”

“A glittering, magnificent epic, dripping with menace and brimming with female empowerment. Absolutely incredible.”—Francesca May, author of Wild and Wicked Things

“A ferocious tale of female rage and the strength of sisterhood, Six Wild Crowns is an inventive and fantastical reimagining of Henry VIII’s queens – and their fight to reclaim the power stolen from them.”—S.A. MacLean, author of The Phoenix Keeper

The Novelry offers an incredibly thoughtful and intelligent approach to writing, and I still have some of the course’s advice stuck to the wall above my desk as a constant reminder! I received feedback from both Katie Khan and Tasha Suri as I worked through two novels, one of which was Six Wild Crowns. They offered the kind of knowledgeable, honest and kind feedback that left me feeling fired up and certain of my next steps. I’ll be forever grateful to them and to The Novelry.
‍—Holly Race

Penelope Slocombe

Sunbirds by The Novelry graduate Penelope Slocombe was published in paperback by John Murray, an imprint of Hachette, in the U.K. Writing coach Emylia Hall described Sunbirds as “a fantastically assured and evocative debut... A novel at once lyrical and meditative, propulsive and thrilling.”

In 1997, Anne’s 18-year-old son Torran walked out of his hotel in the notorious Himalayan town of Manali and disappeared. Seven years later, Anne is still searching, haunted by the idea that someone must know something, following every tenuous lead, obsessed with potential sightings and ridden with guilt at the way she failed Torran as a mother. Unlike her husband, she’s never stopped believing her son is alive.

When her estranged niece Esther arrives with new information, Anne is convinced that her tenacity will finally be rewarded. Forging an uneasy truce, they venture deep into the lush but unpredictable Himalayas, hunting for answers and the secluded community living in the Sunshine House. It is a journey that will test them in ways they couldn’t have imagined. And the closer they get to discovering the truth, the more Anne begins to question everything she thought she wanted.

“Vivid and packed with emotion, this assured debut about a mother searching for her son will take you on a journey to the ragged landscape of the Himalayas.”—Woman & Home‍

“A marvellous read – pin-sharp on motherhood and finding yourself as an older woman. By the end, I was as reluctant to leave India as any of the characters.”—Sally Magnusson, author of Music In The Dark

“A poignant and beautifully-written novel about the expectations of families, the weight of love and the grief of loss. Sunbirds moves easily between the familiar and the otherworldly, questioning whether you can ever truly write your own story.”—Emma Flint, author of Other Women

Nikki Allen

Nikki started writing with The Novelry in 2022 and signed with her literary agent at Blake Friedmann, securing a two-book publishing deal with major Big Five publisher Macmillan. Nikki’s debut novel The Hideaway was published this summer.

A pulse-pounding, twisty destination thriller set in the Costa Rican rainforest, our writing coach Kate Riordan called The Hideaway “an accomplished white-knuckle ride from start to finish,” perfect for fans of Nine Perfect Strangers and The White Lotus, as well as readers of Lucy Clarke.‍

“A brilliant, twisty thriller that makes you want to shout warnings out aloud to the characters! I was gripped.”—Peter James, author of the bestselling Roy Grace series‍

“An absolutely flawless debut from an incredible survival thriller writer. The prose is taut without being plain and wonderfully descriptive without becoming purple. Paced flawlessly from start to the barn burner of a finale, I gobbled this up in two days and can still hear the hum of insects and feel the heat of a tropical summer on my skin. An absolute must-read for your summer. Nikki Allen is one to watch.”—Sarah Goodwin, author of The Yacht

Since joining The Novelry with nothing but a spark of an idea and the determination to (somehow!) turn it into a novel, I have been blown away by Louise Dean’s course materials, the author coaching, the community of writers and the incredible support from editors to boot. I am beyond thrilled with how far I’ve come, both with my writing and signing with such a top-notch agent, and am so excited for my future writing career. Thank you, The Novelry!
—Nikki Allen

Emma Nanami Strenner

Emma took The Novelry’s courses, including The Big Edit, to write her first novel, then signed a publishing contract with Pamela Dorman Books in the U.S. and Hutchinson Heinemann in the U.K., both imprints of Penguin Random House. This year, her debut novel, My Other Heart, was published by Penguin Random House in the U.K. and the U.S.—and was the August Read with Jenna pick on The Today Show! 

Chosen as Stylist magazine’s book of the month, My Other Heart is “a magical read... that will break your heart then put it back together again.” Emily Itami, author of Fault Lines, said: “I am bereft to have finished it! From the suburbs of Philadelphia to the streets of Saigon, I was completely immersed in the lives of these very special characters. I loved it.”

“This novel is full of motherhood and friendship and identity and loss—I fell in love with each character and was grasping for more with every chapter.”—Jenna B. Hager

“A mesmerizing novel filled with different types of love and secrets from the past, My Other Heart is an exploration of identity, motherhood, and friendship. Emma Nanami Strenner’s luminous debut follows three unforgettable women as they search for truth and belonging. Poignant and powerful, this is a novel that lingers long after the final page.”—Jean Kwok, New York Times bestselling author of Searching for Sylvie Lee

I love The Novelry, I regularly dip in and out and find it a wonderful community.
—Emma Nanami Strenner

Shylashri Shankar

A graduate of The Novelry, Shylashri was introduced to her agent James Wills at Watson, Little through our bespoke submissions service. Her novel Blood Caste—in which Jack the Ripper may be at large on the streets of Victorian India—was published by Canelo Crime this year as the first in a three-book deal.

Blood Caste is an atmospheric upmarket historical crime fiction novel set in nineteenth-century India under the British Raj. Rivalries flare between an outcast Brahmin detective and a prickly English inspector when they must join forces to find a Jack the Ripper copycat in 1895 Hyderabad. Blood Caste will appeal to everyone who has devoured books by Abir Mukherjee, Sujata Massey, and Elly Griffiths.

“Blood Caste is at once a twisty mystery, a richly evocative slice of history and a searing deep-dive into the uneasy political, racial and religious cross-currents of Victorian India... Shylashri Shankar is a name to watch—hopefully there will be further adventures to come for Inspector Soobramania and his appealing team of allies!”—Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Alice Network‍

“An immersive new entry in the recent flowering of India-set crime fiction, vividly bringing to life the city of Hyderabad at the turn of the nineteenth century. An exotic take on the Ripper legend.”—Vaseem Khan, author of City of Destruction

Lynn Tavernier

The Novelry graduate Lynn Tavernier’s debut novel, The Lost Hours, was published by Crooked Lane Books. 

The Lost Hours won the Claymore Award for best mystery at the Killer Nashville writers’ conference, and then became a finalist for the Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger Award.

“A gritty, gut-punch of a tale with the kind of damaged, no-nonsense protagonist that I can’t get enough of. If you like low-brow people in a high-brow world, you’ll love this. It’s as if Dennis Lehane and F. Scott Fitzgerald co-wrote a book together.”—Peter Farrelly, Academy Award winner for Best Picture and for Best Original Screenplay

“Delivers a perfect example of superior crime fiction: an uncompromising protagonist who refuses to be intimidated, a mystery that grows more complex with every revelation, and a chilling portrait of how far the wealthy will go to protect their interests. The pacing is relentless and the gorgeously described Rhode Island setting is thick with menace. This gripping debut thriller is intelligent, character-driven, rich with atmosphere, and doesn’t shy away from examining the darker aspects of human nature.”—Emilya Naymark, author of Hide in Place and Behind the Lie

I’d begun submitting to literary agents hoping to secure representation, but the results were less than encouraging. One agent offered kind words, but passed explaining the book still needed work and suggested I look into The Novelry... The result was nothing short of amazing. Soon after, I secured agent representation and then, the holy grail: a book deal. I encourage anyone in need of editorial assistance to find it at The Novelry.
—Lynn Tavernier

Brisa Carleton

Brisa took The Finished Novel Course with us at The Novelry, and we were delighted to introduce her to her literary agent via our trusted agency submissions process. Her debut novel, Last Call at the Savoy, was published this year by Grand Central Publishing.

A story of sisterhood and second chances set at the legendary London hotel, Last Call at the Savoy follows a young writer who helps uncover the history of the famed American Bar’s first (and forgotten) female bartender, Ada Coleman—and may just rescue both of their stories in the process.

“Last Call at the Savoy is about women taking a rightful place in history—both those who have been omitted by the men who were writing it, and those who unwittingly have excised themselves with their own self-doubt. The true history of Ada Coleman is only a silhouette, but Brisa Carleton has made it lush and three-dimensional—and relevant to ladies today who still fight to be seen. Lift a cocktail to this debut!”―Jodi Picoult, No.1 New York Times bestselling author

‍“Carleton beautifully pairs a lush, sophisticated setting with a heroine who is hilarious, complicated, and an absolute delight... Brimming with romance and fueled by cocktails and calamity, this is an exhilarating, tender read that will leave you smiling.”―Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Stolen Queen

I am so grateful to everyone at The Novelry for their exceptional guidance throughout the writing process of my debut novel. Their insightful feedback allowed me to grow as a writer and their unwavering support and encouragement made this entire process a true joy.
—Brisa Carleton

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Writers who signed book deals this year

Mona Tewari

Mona took The Finished Novel Course at The Novelry and is represented by Jennifer Azantian at Azantian Literary Agency. She signed a publishing deal with Bindery Books for her debut novel, Burn the Sea.

Burn the Sea is a historical fantasy pitched as based on the life of Indian monarch Abbakka Chowta, in which a fierce queen must defend her country against both the colonizing monsters attacking from the sea and the cowardly manipulations of a neighboring king... who happens to be her husband.

I am extremely grateful for the help of so many wonderful people at The Novelry (especially Tasha and Craig) who helped make this book possible.
—Mona Tewari

Nicole Brooks

After taking The Novelry’s courses, Nicole was introduced to her literary agent, Rachel Beck at Liza Dawson Associates, through our direct submission service. She has now signed a publishing contract with Blackstone Publishing for her novel The Hundred-Year Flood, which will be published in summer 2026.

The Hundred-Year Flood is a survival/climate thriller in which a family is trapped on a roof during a once-in-a-century flood. The waters are rapidly rising—and so are tensions—as decades of dark secrets come to the surface, threatening their shared past as well as their lives.

I’d been trying to get an agent for five years and although I’d had some near misses, I knew I only had the energy for one more try. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to work with The Novelry. The kindness and respect shown by everyone made me fall back in love with writing and made me feel like I really could do this.
—Nicole Brooks

John Van Rys

John took The Novelry’s courses and The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment to see his novel through from first draft to final edit, and has now signed a book deal with Canadian indie publisher Chicken House Press for his debut novel, Milksop.

Set in Ontario in 1979, Milksop is a coming-of-age story that blends the intimate rhythms of farm life with the universal struggles of adolescence.

The Novelry—both its great programs and wonderful people—guided me through the challenging, inspiring process of writing my very first novel. Simply put, Milksop would not exist without The Novelry... I couldn’t be more grateful for the vision, skills, and encouragement I’ve received.
—John Van Rys

TM Fritz

After taking The Novelry’s courses and The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment, TM Fritz signed a book deal with independent Virginia-based publisher, Brandylane Publishers, for her debut novel, ​​Once Upon a Midnight Shift.

I craved guidance, encouragement, and company while writing my first novel. I’m so glad that I found The Novelry, which provided not only what I wanted but also what I needed. (That’s a reference to an excellent lesson in The Novelry courses!)
—TM Fritz

Janice Okoh

Janice took The Novelry’s courses and was introduced to her agent at Madeleine Milburn Literary Agency through our bespoke submission service. She has now signed a publishing contract with Berkley, an imprint of Penguin Random House in the U.S., and Hemlock Press, an imprint of HarperCollins in the U.K., for her debut novel, Girl Number Eight.

Girl Number Eight follows Sola Adeyemi, a detective at the woefully understaffed Department of Ritualistic Murders and Human Sacrifice, who is brought into the investigation of a four-year-old girl’s disappearance. The girl is the daughter of a wealthy Nigerian politician who vanished under the care of her mother’s mistress. And while the higher-ups are determined to keep this case quiet, Sola is determined to root out the truth...

I’ve taken a lot of courses, but at The Novelry, the coaches are exceptionally talented, generous and kind... I am so happy I signed up to The Novelry—I’ve found a home here for as long as I want.
—Janice Okoh

Writers who signed with agents this year

Anouska Huggins

Anouska is a graduate of The Novelry who wrote and edited her novel on our courses, and was introduced to her agent through our bespoke submissions service. She signed with agent Stacy Testa at Writers House literary agency for her debut gothic historical novel, The Lacemaker of Venice. ‍

Set in sixteenth-century Venice, a penniless lacemaker arrives during Carnival season to work for the mysterious Lace Prophetess, but by the end of her stay, a man will be dead, and she will be on trial for witchcraft.

Having taken many writing courses over the years, I can confidently say Louise Dean has created something truly special with The Novelry. A brilliant team of coaches and editors, the most supportive community, and the highest quality materials... Exactly what I needed to progress from the whisper of an idea to a fully formed manuscript. I’m so thrilled, and I can’t thank The Novelry enough for getting me here!
—Anouska Huggins

Andrea Jacobson

After taking The Novelry’s courses, Andrea was offered representation by agent Nicky Lovick at WGM Atlantic for her powerful and thought-provoking reading group debut.

There are so many of you at The Novelry to thank. I have had one-to-ones with a number of the team, both editors and coaches, completed courses, attended Golden Hour, participated in sessions, and listened to endless Catch Up TV recordings... A massive thank you, in particular, to my editor when I did The Ultimate Manuscript Assessment. The feedback was invaluable and instrumental in reaching this stage of my journey... In my more difficult moments of trying to get an agent, I reflected back on her feedback and reminded myself how much she believed in it.
—Andrea Jacobson

Emily Want

Emily took The Novelry’s courses and was introduced to her literary agent, Kate Rizzo at Greene & Heaton, through our bespoke submission service, signing with the agency for her debut romance novel, The Summer I Found You.

Set on an idyllic Canadian island and featuring the electric will-they-won’t-they love story between an aspiring novelist and a handsome architect, The Summer I Found You pairs the small-town feel and romantic lakeside setting of Carley Fortune’s novels with the humor and emotional depth of writers like Emily Henry and Mhairi McFarlane.

I am so thankful to The Novelry for their support in getting me to this point in my writing journey. I’ve enjoyed countless one-on-one sessions, workshops, and author interviews as part of my membership, and I’ve been continually impressed by the entire team’s kindness and professionalism. I look forward to remaining part of The Novelry community and would encourage any aspiring writers who are considering joining to take the plunge!
—Emily Want

Amanda Weisheit

A graduate of The Novelry, Amanda was introduced to her agent through our bespoke submission service, signing with literary agent Sophie Cudd at The Book Group for her debut romance novel, How to Start a Fire.

How to Start a Fire is a scorching enemies-to-lovers romance about a risk-averse actuary who ends up in a fake-dating pact with a sexy firefighter who happens to be her high-school nemesis—and the white-hot attraction that bursts into flame between them! 

I didn’t realize the experience would be so transformative. Nic was the first person to read my novel, and her enthusiasm and support for my work was honestly overwhelming... I know I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without her help. Emily’s support through the submission process was invaluable. She kept me up to date on all the moving pieces and always kept my hopes up.
—Amanda Weisheit

Sidra Ansari

After taking The Novelry’s courses, Sidra signed with literary agent Hannah Sheppard at HS Literary Agency for her book club fiction novel based around the experience of Muslim women navigating life in the West.

The course content was super insightful and informative, and the coaching calls invaluable. I learnt to sharpen my writing tools, grow courage and confidence, and slow down to enjoy the process of putting a story together—every writer’s dream!
—Sidra Ansari

Joss Wyatt

Joss took The Novelry program and was introduced to her agent through our bespoke submission service, signing with literary agent Marina de Pass at The Soho Agency for her speculative women’s fiction novel, The Man of My Dreams. 

Disillusioned at a couples therapy retreat, Lizzy meets her perfect man—in her dreams. But when he comes to life and takes her husband’s place, Lizzy realizes there’s more at stake than just her marriage...

I’ve been writing and querying different novels for years, and signing up to The Novelry has hands-down been the best decision I’ve made in my journey so far... I genuinely believe I’d still be in the trenches searching for an agent were it not for The Novelry. Not only is the whole team talented and wonderful, but they champion you when you feel like you’ve hit a wall, and bring enthusiasm and ideas to help you find a way over... I started the course hopeful and finished not only a stronger writer but… agented! It’s a dream come true.
—Joss Wyatt

Allie Gardner

Allie, a graduate of The Novelry, was introduced to her agent through our bespoke submission service, signing with literary agent Danielle Marshall at Jane Rotrosen Agency for her upmarket historical mystery, The Widow Maker’s Daughter.

Set in the lush forest of the Pacific Northwest and inspired by true events in 1850s Portland, The Widow Maker’s Daughter is a coming-of-age historical murder mystery that follows a young woman, widowed by her father’s hand, as she seeks justice for the man she loves—only to discover the law is as corrupt as the criminal.

I joined The Novelry with a rough draft and a dream. With inspiration from Louise’s lessons, energizing calls with author coaches, and feedback from the brilliant editorial team, I joyfully rewrote and revised my manuscript (many times!). I learned so much about myself and the craft... Writing a novel can be a daunting solo endeavor, but The Novelry offered me community and taught me to trust the process... They told me my dream of being published was possible, and gave me the roadmap to achieve it. I’m so grateful to the entire team and beyond thrilled to be represented by an amazing agent.
—Allie Gardner

Theo Clarke‍

Theo honed her memoir writing skills through The Novelry and was guided through the process of finding an agent by our team, eventually signing with literary agent Ella Kahn at Apple Tree Literary to represent her for non-fiction and fiction.

Theo recently published her bestselling book Breaking the Taboo, a gripping memoir of a new mother’s experience combined with a powerful call to arms to the U.K. government to improve maternity care. The Times called it “a shocking book exposing Britain’s maternity crisis,” and the New Statesman said it was “a vital tool in achieving the change that is so urgently needed.”

I loved that I could watch on demand all their lessons and was able to set my own pace to work through the classes. The Novelry’s content and coaching were brilliant and invaluable in helping me to uncover the structure for my book... Once I was ready to reach out to agents, I found the whole process of where to start quite overwhelming. Tash helped me with the process and held my hand along the way. I’m so happy I stumbled across The Novelry, as they helped me go from believing that I could write a book to seeing it now stocked in my Waterstones!
—Theo Clarke

Janet Change

Janet took The Novelry program and was introduced to her agent, Hellie Ogden at WME, through our bespoke submission service.

Girl Dinner is a compulsive book club novel with a horror twist about a downtrodden personal assistant who attends culinary school in Paris and slowly becomes a cannibal. With the dark satirical voice of R. F. Kuang’s Yellowface and shades of Mona Awad’s Bunny, Janet’s novel touches on themes of identity and female relationships.

The support from The Novelry has felt like slipping into a warm bath: safe, comfortable, and barely any chance of drowning. The pace of the course helped me outrun my doubt (no time for fear when you’re writing 1,200 words a day!), and turned my lump of clay/glass/whatever into something cohesive that still felt true to who I was... The Novelry performs miracles every day, and I’m so lucky that today was my turn. Thank you for believing in me and my book!
—Janet Change

Michael Lawson

Michael took The Novelry’s courses and signed with his agent, Mia Dakin at Greene & Heaton, after entering Greene & Heaton’s Greene Door Project.

Michael’s novel, The Coast is Queer, is a gorgeous LGBTQ romcom set in Gran Canaria featuring drag queens, cheap booze, and a cast of holidaymakers getting ready for the Pride parade!

I couldn’t have done it without The Novelry team. Having Libby Page as a mentor and Gillian Holmes as an editor has been a masterclass in writing. Thank you for taking a chance on me... I CAN’T BELIEVE I HAVE AN AGENT!
—Michael Lawson

Ali Jacoby

Ali honed her novel on The Novelry’s flagship program, which includes daily lessons, one-on-one coaching with published authors, and editorial feedback from a publishing editor. She then signed with literary agent Sophie Cudd at The Book Group for her debut romance novel, Help Is On the Way.

Help Is On the Way is a romance where a world-famous pop star gets stuck in an elevator with a man who might just be the last person on Earth not to recognize her.

I enrolled when I found myself on the threshold of a new life phase. From the moment I began the program, the floodgates opened and my words poured onto the page... Thank you to all The Novelry coaches I worked with along the way: Colleen Oakley, Libby Page, and editor Gillian Holmes. A special shout-out to editor Nic Caws. Her kind words and encouragement gave me the confidence to believe I could take my writing from a hobby to a career... I’m still pinching myself to have signed with my dream agent.
—Ali Jacoby