at the Royal Bath Hotel, Bournemouth
About the Event
An Author’s Perspective is a relaxed, practical coffee morning for writers at every stage.
Held on the last Saturday of each month from 10:30-12:30. Each month we welcome a guest — a published author, editor, publicist, bookseller or other industry professional — to share real‑world experience in a short, interactive session.
Expect take‑away tips you can use straight away, time for questions, and space to connect with fellow writers over coffee.
The Venue: The Royal Bath Hotel
Opened in 1838, the Royal Bath Hotel is one of Bournemouth’s most historic and storied landmarks. Perched above the seafront with views of the gardens and bay, the hotel has long attracted writers, artists and thinkers seeking inspiration by the sea.
The 1838 Lounge
Steeped in heritage and charm, the 1838 Lounge combines period elegance with contemporary comfort. With its high ceilings, soft lighting and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect space to relax, learn, and share ideas.
This intimate lounge offers a welcoming space for readers and authors alike.
What to Expect
- A focused guest talk offering practical insight into writing, publishing, or the business of books.
- Networking time to meet other writers and our guest.
- A cup of tea or coffee on arrival
Book Your Place
Tickets are available on Eventbrite, TicketTailor and via our partner The Book Hub.
Please note that Eventbrite applies the highest booking fees, while The Book Hub offers the lowest-cost option for purchasing tickets.
Upcoming Workshops & Guest Speakers
Each month we host an author or industry professional to share skills, experience, and advice in an interactive format. Topics may include craft, editing, marketing, self‑publishing, traditional routes, publicity, queries, and more.
28th March 2026
Gary Dalkin & Sophie Beal:
Passion vs Profit – Inside a Small Press
As Clouds Over Bowland, the new novel by Rosemary Sturge, prepares to launch, Cadence Publishing director Sophie Beal and senior associate editor Gary Dalkin open the door on what it’s really like to work within a (very) small independent press. They discuss both the freedoms and the limitations of running a company guided by passion rather than a bottom line.
In this conversation, Sophie and Gary speak candidly about the personal touch small presses offer, how their publishing process works, and what keeps them motivated. If you’re wondering whether a small press could be the right home for your writing, this is the perfect place to start.
30 May 2026
Elanor McBay & Alex Stone:
Social Media for Authors: What to Post and Why It Matters
A practical introduction to social media for writers. Learn what platforms work best, what kind of content readers engage with, and how to build a sustainable online presence without feeling overwhelmed.
We’ll also look at simple tools, graphics, and strategies you can start using straight away.
27 June 2026
Alice G. May:
Self-Publishing on Kindle: A Practical Guide to KDP
A step-by-step look at publishing through Kindle Direct Publishing, covering formatting, uploading, pricing, and getting your book into readers’ hands.
25 July 2026
Kathleen McGurl:
Beating the Blank Page: Overcoming Procrastination
Why do writers procrastinate, and how can we break the cycle? Kathleen shares practical strategies for tackling the blank page, building writing habits, and keeping momentum when motivation fades.
29 August 2026
Alex Stone:
Bringing Your Setting to Life: Writing Location & Atmosphere
How setting shapes character, mood and story. This practical session explores how to use location and atmosphere to deepen emotional impact and make your world feel real to the reader.
31st October 2026
Alex Stone:
Truth, Lies and Secrets: Writing Unreliable Narrators
How do you keep readers guessing while still playing fair? This session explores the art of unreliable narration, misdirection, and psychological tension in storytelling.
Past Workshops
31st January 2026
Alex Stone:
Delving Deep Into Character Emotions
28th February 2026
Alice G. May:
Choosing Your Publishing Path
Author Events 