On Creative Writing

On Creative Writing founder Sheelagh Caygill discusses Emma Woodhouse's experiences writing historical fiction, seeking an agent and acquiring a publisher in the UK. She also discusses her own imprint, Havisham and Webb. If you're a writer asking "How do you get a publishing contract?" this podcast provides a candid look at the dedication, commitment, and self-belief needed to bring books to life.

Emma's debut novel, The Prendergast Watch, historical fiction set in Victorian London, emerged from an unexpected source: her struggle with the present-tense narration after being inspired by The Crimson Petal and the White, by Michael Faber. Initially uncomfortable with writing historial fiction in the present tense, Emma challenged herself to write a short piece in that tense, aiming for a "Dickensian" feel. This experiment grew into The Prendergast Watch.

The COVID-19 lockdown gave time to revisit the manuscript. Emma describes the writing process as organic and unplanned. She let characters and plot unfold as she wrote, often discussing ideas with her partner. This free time was instrumental in completing the novel. Emma notes she sometimes "slipped back into the past tense," but edits solidified her signature present-tense voice.

A key milestone was securing a literary agent for The Prendergast Watch. Emma used a strategic "game plan": for every rejection, she submitted to two more agents. She submitted to around 30 agents. Persistence paid off when an agent, from her subsequent submissions, requested the full manuscript. This led to an R and R (revise and resubmit), a common step in the agent-author process. After refining her manuscript, Emma secured representation and worked with this agent for three "fantastic" years.

When Emma's agent went on maternity leave, Emma found herself without a publishing contract. She faced a critical decision: "give up or carry on." She chose to keep going.

This period offered insights into the realities of publishing. Emma learned that large publishers have limited interest in multiple authors within niche genres, to avoid internal competition. She emphasizes that authors can be "naive about the world of publishing," noting publishers' significant investment in editing, cover design, and marketing, making each acquisition a gamble.

Emma also realized a book is a "product," and authors themselves are viewed similarly. A strong online media presence is often crucial for securing a contract (explaining celebrity book deals). Emma's experience revealed that "a lot of success comes from being seen and being heard," especially in "the attention economy."

Emma's persistence led to a publishing contract. After submitting The Prendergast Watch to smaller presses, one pointed her to Holand Press, who accepted her debut. In a "very cheeky" move, Emma then offered them a second manuscript, Simple Twists of Fate, which they also accepted. This book responded to feedback on The Prendergast Watch, suggesting a single female main character for historical fiction readers.

While writing Simple Twists of Fate, Emma developed a deep interest in historical research, particularly the story of Mary Carr, a Victorian female gang leader of the Forty Elephants. This obsession led to her third book, Mary, Queen of the Forty, a novelized version of Mary Carr’s life. Emma's research involved extensive work with British newspaper archives and "Mary Carr tours" in London. She aims to uncover the lives of "forgotten women," especially from poorer backgrounds, often overlooked by history. Factual accuracy is paramount, with any poetic license noted in the book's back matter.

Emma's experiences highlight that talent and passion are essential, but persistence, adaptability, and understanding the industry's business realities are equally crucial for navigating the path from manuscript to published work.

On Creative Writing: Building community, exploring trends, and supporting writers

Creative writer Sheelagh Caygill brings you the On Creative Writing podcast. On Creative Writing is here to talk about all things creative writing. This includes fiction in all forms, from poetry, prose, flash fiction, through to novels, novellas, screenplays, scripts, and creative nonfiction.

In this debut episode, Sheelagh speaks with guest Emma Woodhouse dives into the world of book cover design—a topic that resonates with both new and seasoned writers.

Sheelagh and Emma discuss trends in cover design, from historical fiction’s moody, floral motifs to the bold, dark aesthetics of contemporary fantasy and thrillers. Emma highlights standout covers, including Natalie Lim’s Elegy for Opportunity and Kyle Flemmer’s Supergiants, each with distinct visual appeal.

Emma’s own writing journey is a testament to creative growth and adaptability. With five books to her name and a recent foray into a new genre, she shares the challenges and excitement of pushing creative boundaries: “It’s all very exciting. It's kind of weird, really, still to get my head around it all, to be fair. It's all happened quite quickly.” The show’s next episode will delve deeper into Emma’s writing process and experiences.

A recurring theme is the importance of community for writers. Emma and Sheelagh met during their MA in Creative Writing at Northeastern University in London, where they discovered the value of peer feedback and shared ambition. “What we're trying to do is build a community of writers,” Emma explains. “We're here for writers, writers are here for us, we're sharing interviews, hints, and our own experiences.”

Sheelagh echoes this sentiment: “So many writers write on their own; you have to do it in solitude. Finding a community that feels safe, doesn't judge, and is open to helping answer questions is just so important.”

On Creative Writing is open to episode suggestions on any aspect of creative writing. Sheelagh emphasizes that both traditional publishing and self-publishing are on the table. The podcast show will also try to address timely topics, such as the impact of AI on creative writing. “I'm busy reading a lot about that and wanting to write about it, so that's another thing we're going to explore,” Sheelagh says.

The podcast will feature a diverse lineup of guests, including Hollay Gadhery, James Cairns, Kyle Flemmer, Saad Omar Khan, and Natalie Lim.

The hosts also encourage listener feedback and suggestions, aiming to make the show as interactive and useful as possible. On the website, oncreativewriting.com, writers can find resources such as Writers Reveal—an ongoing Q&A series with authors sharing practical tips and craft advice. The first downloadable guide, Moving Forward With Your Writing: Guidance from Authors & Writers, is now available to newsletter subscribers.

Sheelagh invites writers and readers alike to become part of the On Creative Writing community. Share the podcast with friends, join the conversation online, and help shape future episodes.