CRIME WRITING AT THE WEST MIDLANDS POLICE MUSEUM with guest author Natalie Marlow

ABOUT THE LOCATION

An exclusive opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your crime fiction narrative as you explore an authentic Victorian lock-up, constructed in 1891 and operational as a police cell block until 2016.  This retreat includes free entry to the museum, chartering the history of West Midland’s policing and up to the current day so is also a perfect opportunity to research policing techniques to ensure your crime novel is as accurate as possible. With the museum to ourselves and plenty of time to write, you'll be free to choose a writing spot - from an interview room or even an old cell!

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ABOUT OUR GUEST AUTHOR

Natalie Marlow is an historical crime novelist with a fascination for the people and landscapes of the Midlands.  Her critically acclaimed debut novel, Needless Alley, was both a Val McDermid New Blood pick and shortlisted for the Crime Fest debut prize. Natalie holds an MA in Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia and is currently working on the next book in the William Garrett series.

Structure of the day*

9.30am - Join us for tea, coffee and pastries and meet the other writers you'll be joining for the day.

10.00am -Setting your focus for the day. Whether that's writing something new, trying to improve your word count or editing a work in progress, you can set your personal goal that you'd like to work towards.

10.30am - Time to look around the museum exhibits. This is a chance to learn more about policing techniques from the Victorian age to the present day; or perhaps you might find an artefact to inspire your writing.*

11.00am - Find yourself a quiet spot for some uninterrupted time to write.

12.00pm Take a break with others to enjoy a pub lunch at the local pub.

1pm - One hour Q&A with our guest writer Natalie Marlow. This is your chance for you to ask your questions about Natalie's novels, writing process, or her experience as a published writer.

2pm - Another writing session for your last sprint towards your goal.

3.30pm - A special celebration of your goals with a choice of prosecco or non-alcoholic drink and confetti cannon celebration.

4.15pm event ends.

*exact timings of the sessions may be subject to change.

* The museum is in an old prison lock up so may not be suitable for those who get claustrophobic or dislike heights as the floor is completely transparent. The floor is not suitable for wearing heels.

Note: This retreat is for over 18s only.