SOUL SERIES
Let's dig deep into the heart & soul of your book.
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Recommended to "stack" Skeleton & Soul series for week-long experience.
Skeleton I (The First Draft) & Soul I (The Pacing Problem)
Skeleton II (The Middle Muddle) & Soul II (Thematic Weaving)
Skeleton III (The Climax) & Soul III (Risky Business)
The Soul
The Pacing Problem
Effective manuscripts must perform "double duty" by balancing action with character development, world-building, emotion. Every scene and every line must be purposeful to manage pacing.
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September 16 - 18, 2026
Thematic Weaving
The "heart" of the story informs every part of your work. The themes, the stakes, the descriptions, the nuances - everything should "point back" to the heart. Unsure what that is? This course is for you.
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September 30 - October 2, 2026
Risky Business
We'll focus on defining and sharpening what's at risk for your characters to keep the pages turning and ensure a satisfying ending.
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October 14 - 16, 2026
Monica Amore
Soul I: The Pacing Problem
Bestselling local Author
What you will receive:
Each resident will receive a copy of their instructor's latest book (or if it's part of a series, then the first book in the latest series).
A leather-bound writing journal.
Other "Soul" themed gifts.
10% off on one Professional Series course. We recommend taking the courses in order.
A writing foundation to help you grow.
Residency Overview
Each residency will follow the same general outline:
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Wednesday
5pm Check-in
5:30-7pm welcome drinks & ice-breakers
7pm Dinner at the Grand Haven / Spring Lake Holiday Inn
8:30-9pm Opening Lesson
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Thursday
8-10am Breakfast
10:30am - Noon - First Session
Noon - 3pm Lunch & free write
3:30-5pm - Second Session
5:30-7pm - Free write
7pm Dinner at Mud Penny (or your preference)
8:30-9pm Open Mic Readings
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Friday
8-10am Breakfast
11am Check-out
11am - Noon Boardwalk Free-write
Noon-1:30 Lunch
1:30-3pm Final Lesson