Workshop on

Narrative Technique

Writing a book takes more than just ... writing. 

Successful novels and memoirs move between narrative techniques such as summary, narration, reflection, and scene. Mastering these techniques takes your craft to the next level.

Friday, September 11 & Friday, September 18 · 2:00 - 3:00 PM PST
$129  ·  Two Live 60-minute sessions + Replays Included

The key to executing your story well.

Many first-time authors rely on the same writing technique from start to finish. This is fine for initial drafts, but one-note technique can deter agents, publishers, and readers.

Variance in narrative technique crafts a layered story world, deepens character, and is essential for tension and pacing. 

Phase Three of Five

In the Five Phases framework

Narrative Technique is the pivot point to crafting a book readers can't put down.

Five Phases to Build a Book pyramid

1. Generative — From your imagination to the page.

2. Story Fundamentals — Structure for readers.

3. Narrative Technique — Execute structure.

4. Craft — Elevate.

5. Sentence Level — Tighten language.

What you'll learn

Applicable techniques to immediately strengthen your book
01

When & why

To use summary, narrative exposition, reflection, or scene — and how each shapes the reader's experience.

02

Scene Technique

A flexible, step-by-step technique for drafting or revising standout scenes.

03

Pacing & Tension

Improve your book without changing your story. Small technical shifts lead to dramatic reader impact.

The course is broken into two sessions to give you time to practice and ask questions.
Struggle with backstory? What's the difference between backstory and flashback? 
Understanding narrative technique will give you confidence to tackle areas you feel stuck or frustrated.


Meet your instructor


I'm Abigail Raeke, a developmental editor, teacher, and book coach. I developed the five-phase framework to help writers break down the overwhelming process of writing a book. 

Like any long-term, multifaceted project, writers need different skill sets at different points in the process. Every writer has strengths in some areas, and needs development in others. 

While there are terrific resources available for every other phase, narrative technique is rarely addressed, despite being one of the major elements to building a successful book. That's why I developed this course! 


"Clearly presented and backed with vivid examples. I had a big Ah-ha moment!"

Sally J.



"I cried when I finally understood what a scene is. Thank you!!

Teri R.



Common Questions

"I'm a strong writer. Shouldn't I be able to figure this out on my own?"
Strong storytellers and communicators can feel when something's off, but the diagnostic language isn't there. 

This workshop gives you that language, along with easily applicable techniques to improve both your writing, and the elements essential to building your book.
"I've taken a lot of writing classes. What makes this one different?"
Most craft classes teach writing elements in isolation — this workshop teaches the underlying architecture of four major narrative modes and how they work together. 

Many writers assume an understanding of scene after taking writing classes that never actually teach the nuance of narrative technique. You'll leave this workshop with a flexible framework you can apply to your scenes, in your style, for the rest of your writing life.
"What if I can't make the live session?"
Every registrant receives the replay. Attend live if you can — there will be time for questions — but the recording is yours to revisit whenever you're deep in a draft or revision.
"Is this for fiction, memoir, or both?"
Both. Narrative technique is the shared language of fiction and narrative memoir. Whether you're building an invented world or shaping lived experience into story, the modes function the same way.
Reserve Your Seat

Narrative Technique Workshop

Friday, September 11 & Friday, September 18 ·  2:00 - 3:00 PM PST
Length
Two hour-long sessions
Investment
$129
Replay
Included

Register below to secure your seat. You'll receive the live link and access to replays after the sessions.

Which best describes your project?
Where are you in the writing process?
What is your biggest challenge with your book right now?

“Art is fire plus algebra.” — Jorge Luis Borges