Writer & Ghostwriter
Editor & Proofreader
Mentor & Coach
Novice to Novelist was born from a desire to help new and aspiring writers discover their true potential and set their spark alight. I want to find a community of writers, new and old, that is built upon compassion, honesty, motivation, and inspiration.
If there's one thing we can agree on, it's that your work matters. And that's why I do what I do.
I've been in this industry in one guise or another for over twenty years - since I left university, in fact. I've worked on all sides of the fence - from writing nonfiction and ghostwriting Regency romance to editing and proofreading. I've even dabbled in publishing. My favourite part of it all, though? Working with new writers to help them achieve their goals and dreams, and watching them make their work shine.
Over the years, I've worked with many different types of people, from those writing self-help books to PhD candidates perfecting their dissertations. But my heart truly lies with fiction, and I champion those new and indie authors who are going it alone against a Goliath of an industry.
I have a BA in Philosophy from Cardiff University and an MA from the University of London. I'm an avid reader and book reviewer and have taken several courses in creative writing, grammar, and editing. Born and raised in South Wales, UK, I now live in a little village in the French countryside with my super-cute French bulldog, Titi. My favourite colour is yellow. I hate mushrooms. I eat far too much cheese.
I believe that anyone can become a writer.
Writing is a skill, just like any other. No one picks up a guitar and expects to be a musical maestro immediately - and in just the same way, nobody can pick up a pen and suddenly write like Stephen King.
Sure, some people have natural propensities towards different skills, but I strongly believe that with enough hard work, patience, and dedication, anyone can learn to write as well as the experts.
I champion indie and self-published authors
I don't believe that your writing journey has to lead to publication, but it might. Likewise, I don't believe that traditionally published authors are any better than self-published authors.
Publishing on your own is difficult - you go from being a writer to being a publisher, cover designer, marketing expert, sales manager, and so much more.
Going it alone is tough, but it also means you have greater control, you're likely to earn more money, and you learn even more skills. But whichever path you pick is perfectly okay.
I believe that positivity leads to growth.
It's true that, sometimes, we all need a little tough love. And yes, we all need a kick up the backside to get moving now and then.
But I believe that true growth and learning come from positivity and constructive feedback.
That's why the ethos of the Novice to Novelist community is support, kindness, and encouragement.
Meet the Team
Vicky
Are you ready to join us? Awesome! Or maybe you've got questions. I'm more than happy to answer them. Send me a message, and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.
vicky@novicetonovelist.com
Titi
His English isn't great and his writing is even worse, but Titi is a valuable member of the team. His role? Comforting snuggles, escapes into the countryside, and snaffling up leftover snacks.
Jane A.
Vicky has a deep love for everything related to books and writing. This is so apparent when you attend her workshops. She shares her knowledge in a manner that is easy to digest and understand, inspiring you to apply these practices in your work.
Debi W.
Vicky's very positive and friendly approach to teaching and sharing her immense knowledge of all things writing makes it very easy to learn and be encouraged to get started. Once started, the encouragement is always there to keep on going. I highly recommend Vicky and Novice to Novelist.
Andres V.
Vicky has eyes like a hawk. I had my book edited multiple times before I found her, but she found stuff that slipped past everyone. Hire her and stop wasting time!
Katie L.
Victoria is able to help me with problems specific to academic writing. She is very good at reading into the work and getting at what I am trying to say. In this way she helps as a true editor, not just checking and correcting errors. I have a new confidence in my work and potential.
If you're not sure which package or service is for you, send me an email or find me on Facebook, and we can talk it through.