My Writing Journey
I’ve been creating stories in my head ever since I was a little girl—imagining wild adventures, intriguing plots, and characters that sometimes felt more real than the people around me! But it wasn’t until I started taking writing courses in 2010 that I realised just how much craft goes into creating a truly captivating story. It’s not just about having a good idea; it’s about balancing dialogue, description, and action with the perfect pace and tone. There’s a lot more to it than meets the eye!
After completing three creative writing courses, I decided to take on the challenge of writing a novel. I had spent years writing short stories and felt ready to dive deeper. But writing a novel was a whole different ball game. I had no idea where to start, how to develop characters, or how to unfold their personalities gradually instead of all at once. That’s when I decided to enroll in a novel writing course with the New Zealand Writers College, under the guidance of the incredible Alex Smith. Her gentle and insightful teaching helped me build the skills I needed to complete my first novel, which is now on its way to being published. I am so excited I have made it this far!
Once I finished the manuscript, I knew it needed some professional polish, so I sought out Patricia Bell, a fantastic editor and proofreader. She showed me how to turn my novel from good to great, and I gained a whole new appreciation for the art of polishing a story before it’s ready for readers.
Once I finished the manuscript, I knew it needed some professional polish, so I sought out Patricia Bell, a fantastic editor and proofreader. She showed me how to turn my novel from good to great, and I gained a whole new appreciation for the art of polishing a story before it’s ready for readers.
This experience sparked a new passion in me—proofreading. I’m planning to take a course soon to become a certified proofreader. Not only will it help me fine-tune my own work, but I’m also looking forward to supporting other writers in getting their stories ready for the world. I won’t be doing full editing (that’s a whole other beast!), but I’ll be there for that final proofread before the book hits the press.
If you’re keen to stay in the loop about my proofreading services or want updates on my writing journey, just fill in your details below. I’d love to keep you posted.
Thank you for your support!
Ngā mihi,
Tatiana
If you’re keen to stay in the loop about my proofreading services or want updates on my writing journey, just fill in your details below. I’d love to keep you posted.
Thank you for your support!
Ngā mihi,
Tatiana