Just two weeks remain to apply for the 2025 Novel Studio programme at City University. As the 30 May deadline approaches, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our remarkable alumni who have transformed their writing dreams into publishing reality.

Turning Writing Dreams into Publishing Reality

When it comes to the Novel Studio, it’s not just about learning the craft of writing – it’s about joining a community that supports your journey from first draft to publication and beyond. Our alumni success stories speak volumes about the programme’s ability to nurture talent and launch writing careers.

Lara Haworth: From Novel Studio to Nero Award Shortlist

When Lara Haworth joined the Novel Studio in 2018, she already showed tremendous promise, winning our Literary Agent Competition that same year. Fast forward to 2024, and Lara’s debut novel Monumenta has been published by Canongate and shortlisted for the prestigious Nero Award.

“My time on the Novel Studio was completely transformative,” Lara says. “Being read. It was such a relief… it was a privilege to read my peers’ writing too – to lose myself in their worlds, and bring my sensibilities as a writer to their work.”

For Lara, the Novel Studio provided not just creative guidance but practical industry knowledge: “The course also taught me that books don’t live in a blank space. They’re deeply connected to the world, most pressingly, the publishing world… it was so very helpful to be given the tools to do this, to knock on all those guarded doors.”

Jo Cunningham: Cosy Crime Success with Two-Book Deal

Jo Cunningham’s journey to publication showcases the perseverance that the Novel Studio helps to cultivate. After completing the programme, Jo continued refining her craft until her fifth novel, Death by Numbers, caught the attention of the Soho Agency.

This led to a two-book deal with Constable, with her debut cosy crime novel published in August 2024 and a sequel, Pet Hates, scheduled for August 2025.

“Persistence and resilience,” Jo advises when asked about essential qualities for writers. “It took me many years from starting to write novels to reach the publication stage. The main thing you must do is finish the novel.”

Jo credits her writing courses at City University as instrumental to her development: “I’ve benefitted enormously from taking courses, getting feedback at workshops, and reading books to help improve different writing skills – structure, character, productivity.”

Dr Deepa Anappara: International Literary Acclaim

Another shining example of Novel Studio success is Dr Deepa Anappara, whose debut novel Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line received extraordinary international acclaim. The novel was named one of the best books of the year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time and NPR, and won the Edgar Award for Best Novel.

Deepa’s remarkable literary journey continues with her second novel, The Last of Earth, forthcoming from Oneworld in 2026. Her work has been translated into over twenty languages, and Time included her debut in its list of ‘The 100 Best Mystery and Thriller Books of All Time’. Deepa is now part of the teaching team on City St George’s Creative Writing MA.

Join the Next Generation of Novel Studio Success Stories

Could you be our next publishing success story? The Novel Studio provides the perfect environment to develop your novel with expert guidance, constructive feedback, and industry connections.

New for 2025: Two Ways to Experience the Novel Studio

We’re excited to announce that for the first time ever, the Novel Studio will be offered in two formats:

  • Online Studio – Our current online course experience
  • London Studio –  The same exceptional course content and teachers, delivered at our central London campus

This flexibility allows writers from anywhere to benefit from our renowned programme without compromising on quality or experience. Whether you prefer in-person interaction or need the convenience of online learning, the Novel Studio can now accommodate your needs.

With just two weeks left to apply for the 2025 programme, now is the time to take that crucial step toward realising your writing ambitions.

Applications close on 30 May 2025.

For more information and to apply, visit The Novel Studio or email Emily.Pedder.1@city.ac.uk with any questions.