Home is Where The Hurt Is: Writing Domestic Thrillers with Holly Craig

Join us for an intensive two-hour workshop with bestselling thriller author, Holly Craig, where you’ll delve into the dark and gripping world of domestic noir. We’ll explore the key elements of this genre, focusing on building suspense, crafting complex characters, and plotting unexpected twists. Learn how to create an atmosphere of tension and intrigue, develop multi-dimensional characters with hidden depths, and execute effective plot twists. By the end of the session, you’ll have the tools to start crafting your own compelling domestic noir story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats!

Outline of course:

Domestic thrillers: What are they?

• Understanding the Genre: Explore the key elements of domestic noir, including themes of secrecy, betrayal, and the dark side of domestic life.
• Setting: the importance of setting in this genre.
• Case Studies: Analyse popular domestic noir novels and films to identify common tropes and techniques.

Building Suspense and Tension

• Creating Atmosphere: Learn how to use setting and mood to build suspense.
• Pacing: Techniques for maintaining tension throughout your story.

Shady Characters

• Complex Characters: Crafting multi-dimensional characters with hidden depths and secrets.
• Relationships: Exploring the dynamics of relationships and how they can drive the plot.

Red Herrings and Foreshadowing

• Plot Twists: How to plan and execute effective plot twists.
• Narrative Structure: Organising your story for maximum impact.

About the Presenter
Holly Craig is a Western Australian author. Her debut thriller novel, THE SHALLOWS, published on September 1, 2023, with Thomas & Mercer, the thriller and crime imprint of Amazon Publishing. The Shallows became an instant Amazon #1 bestseller in the US, UK and Australia. Her second novel, THE RIP, set on Rottnest Island, was published on February 20, 2024. Holly is also published with Audible UK, and Czech Republic publisher, Cosmopolis. She is represented by Darley Anderson Literary, TV and Film Agency in London. Holly is also the creator of THE WRITE CLUB, where she teaches adult writers how to write for publication from FAWWA (The Fellowship of Australian Writers WA) in Swanbourne. She runs writing masterclasses and retreats, offers manuscript and editing services, privately mentors writers and co-hosts a popular podcast, Off The Page, with author, Polly Phillips, which centres around the ups and downs of being an author.