All writers can hit a point where progress stalls. A plot feels tangled, a character falls flat; something just isn’t clicking the way it should. In those moments, what often helps isn’t pushing harder — it’s stepping back. A fresh perspective, a second opinion, or simply someone confirming you’re on the right track.

That’s what Author Advice is: a new initiative designed to support writers as they work toward their goals.

Why Author Advice?

New2theScene believes writing shouldn’t feel like a closed door. From the beginning, our mission has been to make competitions more accessible, encourage year-round creativity, and build a community that supports emerging voices.

But we know growth doesn’t just happen around submission deadlines.

It happens in the in-between moments — the drafting, editing, questioning. That’s where Author Advice comes in.

What It Offers

Author Advice gives you the opportunity to receive thoughtful, constructive feedback while you’re still working on your project. Not just after you’ve submitted it.

Whether you’re refining your narrative voice; questioning your pacing or structure; struggling with a sluggish middle; wondering if your short story is too long; or anything else fiction related.

How It Works

Four weekends a year, we open ourselves to queries.

All you need to do is:

• Send us an email
• Attach an extract (up to 500 words), a synopsis, idea, or question
• Tell us what you’d like feedback on

Over the following week, we’ll connect with our network to gather insightful, constructive advice tailored to your work — feedback designed to help you improve, refine, and move forward with confidence.

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2026 Dates for Your Calendar

Mark these weekends to make the most of Author Advice:

• 27th & 28th June
• 26th & 27th September
• 27th & 28th December

 Submit during these dates for feedback on your work.

A Space for Growth

Author Advice isn’t about harsh critique or gatekeeping — it’s about creating an environment of positivity, development, and encouragement. Writing can be solitary, but it doesn’t have to be isolating.

With Author Advice, you’re not just sending words into the void — you’re starting a conversation, gaining perspective, and taking one more step toward your writing goals.

We’re excited to read your work.