Success Stories
The Literary Consultancy is very proud of the talented writers it has helped over the years. Whilst TLC did not set up as a talent scouting operation, but rather to provide informed editorial advice to people writing at all levels, we are well-positioned to keep a steady eye on real writing talent, whilst writing markets fluctuate. We have been instrumental in helping many writers find their place with publishers and publish independently to great success, and this list represents just a small selection of those who’ve gone on to get book deals, top bestseller lists, become bookclub favourites, have their books recommended by Oprah, made into films starring Hollywood actors, and gain media coverage across the UK and internationally. We’re incredibly proud, and very lucky to feature their kind words about TLC here.
“I feel so fortunate that through both TLC’s Free Reads Scheme and Writing West Midlands, I had the opportunity, with the advice and suggestions given, to resurrect a manuscript that has been boxed away for some considerable time and develop it into what one reader describes as being ‘ interesting, gritty and honest’. It makes me feel I’ve done something good!”
David Yeats,
Opal Causeway,
Book Guild
“I sent a collection of short stories to the TLC for assessment and the report I received was extremely helpful. The reader identified the weaknesses and strengths of the stories, and the tone was very encouraging. The reader had a very good understanding of the technical challenges of the short story form. I rewrote the stories using the feedback in the report and the collection was published by the wonderful Renard Press.”
Miriam Burke,
Women and Love,
Renard Press
“Back in 2016, I took advantage of the help of TLC and a copy editor in Scotland. Janette was amazing, she even suggested the book to her contacts. Although I did not take up the offer of an e-publisher, this first insight from an experienced professional gave me the confidence to go on and submit it to competitions. The book was long-listed for the Bath Novel Award and it is now published by Wrecking Ball Press.”
Csilla Toldy,
Bed Table Door,
Wrecking Ball Press
“I got to go to a TLC Writer’s Day where I found the support of other attendees and the talks really helpful. I used the Being a Writer programme and other TLC workshops to keep me writing in lockdown and help me fine tune the book. Throughout the whole process, Aki and Joe’s advice and Nelima’s communication has been invaluable.”
Jools Abrams,
The Girl in the Mirror,
Troubador
“TLC helped me get my Manuscript Agent ready. They guided me to the ideal Mentor, who gave me a practical, detailed, insightful report, and I got my agent immediately. I have recommended this service to so many fellow writers, all of whom have had very positive experiences. I attended TLC’s first ever Conference “Self Publishing in the Digital Age” which was outstanding, an incredible insight into the Modern Publishing World, and an excellent learning experience for any new writer. I have also attended several TLC Writers Workshops and always found them to be lively, informative and inspiring. TLC is a wonderful resource for all writers, no matter what stage of their writing career they are at.”
Helen Seymour,
Beautiful Noise,
Pencil
“I’m always so glad to work with you all at TLC, and am grateful for the support you’ve offered over the years. The TLC manuscript assessment I had in 2018 was invaluable in shaping this collection, as it helped me consider the stories I wanted to tell – and how I wanted to tell them. The novel itself found a new life… as the second short story in this collection.”
Gemma Seltzer,
Ways of Living,
Influx Press
