Premise, Hook & Opening Pages – Psychological Thriller Masterclass

Alex Stone | Author Events

What turns an interesting idea into a psychological thriller readers can’t put down?

Join bestselling psychological thriller author Alex Stone for this live, interactive two-hour masterclass exploring the foundations of a compelling psychological thriller.

During the session, you’ll:

  • Explore what makes a compelling psychological thriller
  • Develop your story’s central premise and promise
  • Identify the question that will keep readers turning the pages
  • Consider what gives your initial idea enough potential to sustain a novel
  • Explore how to create an opening that immediately draws readers into your story

Whether you’re starting with the beginnings of an idea or already working on a psychological thriller, you’ll be able to apply the session to your own story and ask questions along the way.

Thursday 1 October 2026 | 7–9pm UK time | Live online via Google Meet

Also included: Writers’ Hub

Your booking also gives you access to the Author Events Writers’ Hub on Wednesday evening — an informal live online hour where you can ask questions, discuss how you’re applying the teaching to your own novel, and connect with Alex and other writers.

Want to continue?

This masterclass is Week 1 of Alex Stone’s 12-week Write a Psychological Thriller programme.

Each week explores a different element of writing a psychological thriller, taking you from premise, character and setting through structure, suspense, voice, twists, endings, revision and publication.

You can join individual masterclasses, book a four-week block, or take part in the complete 12-week programme.

Full 12-week programme: 1 October–17 December 2026
Thursdays, 7–9pm | Live online

The complete programme is £595, or £565 for Author Events members, and non-member full-programme bookings include 12 months’ Author Events membership.

Want to explore the complete programme?

View the full 12-week programme, weekly topics and guest experts→

Find the option that works for you.

Join for one masterclass, choose a four-week block, or follow the complete journey with the 12-week programme.

Explore all booking options →