What is McCauley Book Camp?

Think of it as boot camp, but you don’t have to leave home. And the food is better. It’s more private, too.

But it’s not easy. It’s an intense, personalized eight-week course where writers at any stage can acquire new skills in a structured format. It’s about accountability and being motivated to finish what you’ve started. To write that book you’ve always wanted to write, but didn’t think you could.

Together, you and I will hone your craft to improve your work whether it’s just an idea or a full manuscript. We’ll cover all the fundamentals you’ll need to find your voice. When we’re done you’ll know how to write a book that has a chance of getting noticed in the marketplace.

Note: This program is about getting your book on the page and finished. I’m not an editor. I’m not a proofreader. I’m not an agent. I’m not a publisher.

Why choose McCauley Book Camp?

I can help you write your book, no matter the genre.

…or a mixture of some of the above. Or none of them. The genre doesn’t matter. Finishing your book does.

What makes you an expert?

I’m not an expert. What I’ve got is experience. I’ve had (30) thirty novels published since 2008. Several authors have published way more than that. I’ve been fortunate to have my work published by Penguin, Kensington and a bunch of smaller houses. I’ve written short stories and even self-published some of my work.

I’m a working professional writer of techno-thrillers, historical crime novels, and westerns. I’ve published under my own name and ghostwritten for other authors. I’ve seen my work on bestseller lists and in bookstores around the country. I’ve had starred reviews in Publisher’s Weekly. Even Kirkus liked a few of my books. My podcast, ‘Spies, Lies and Private Eyes’, has enabled me to speak with some of the best writers working today.

I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t work in publishing. I’ll share that knowledge with you if you’re willing to take the next step in your writing journey. But it won’t be easy.

The secret to writing a novel…

is that there is no secret. There are no short cuts, not even with AI. Writing a good novel takes commitment to improving your ability. It takes a willingness to learn how to tell a compelling story well. It means taking honest critique and making it work for you. That’s much harder than it sounds. I can help you learn how.

Who should sign up for McCauley’s Book Camp?

Anyone looking for help writing a book, and/or wants to improve it. I don’t care if you’re published or unpublished. I don’t care how old you are or what you do for a living. Your dedication and commitment to telling the best story you can is all that matters.

How does it work?

Together, we’ll figure out how you can tell your story your way. I’ll share my experiences in the publishing world. The highs, the lows, the despair and the wins. Many writing programs guarantee you’ll be published at the end. I don’t. Instead, I have:

The 8-1-0-0 Plan

8 Weeks

In eight weeks, we’ll devise a plan that’ll help you write a book your way. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all curriculum. You’ll learn:

How to review your manuscript and/or build out your book concept.
The benefits of outlining versus letting your ideas flow.
How to develop plots that work no matter the genre.
How to create characters that resonate with audiences.
How to write story arcs and structure that make your work stand out.
How to define plot holes and keep the reader engaged.
How to avoid endless rabbit holes of research.
How to make writing a rewarding labor of love.
How to stay motivated and prevent writer’s block.

1 Book

When you graduate, you’ll have personalized tools and methods crafted specifically for you to finish your book on your schedule, according to your timeframe and skill level.

0 Excuses

I’ve heard them all before.

I can’t do it. I don’t have time. I’ll never be able to finish a book. I’m too young. I’m too old. No one will read it. No one read my last book. What if people don’t like it?

They’re all excuses. They’re lies we tell ourselves. The only thing keeping you from finishing your book is you. I’ll help you find the confidence and skill to write a better book than you thought possible. You and your ideas are worth the effort.

0 B.S.

I can’t promise you’ll find an agent. I can’t promise you’ll land a publishing deal. I can’t promise your book will be made into a movie or series. No one can. If you want someone who’ll tell you what you want to hear, this program isn’t for you.

But if you sign up, you’ll know how to create your book your way. You’ll discover whatever talent you had within you all along. And you’ll be motivated to see your work on a bookshelf one day, even if you have to self-publish it. You’ll be on your way to having a finished product of which you can be proud. Because once you’ve written a book, you’re an author and no one can take that away from you.

Where and when are sessions held?

All sessions are at least one hour per week with me via Zoom. They can go longer and be more frequent if necessary. It takes as long as it takes. This isn’t about watching the clock. It’s about improving your work and maximizing your talent. Life happens, so session times can be flexible according to your availability.

How much does it cost?

McCauley’s Book Camp costs about the same as regular writing workshops. You won’t be in a group. You’ll have personalized one-on-one learning with me. You’ll get everything listed above and more for one flat, agreed upon fee. No hidden charges. No ‘bonus packages’ or ‘deluxe’ deals. Ever.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to commit to improving yourself and your craft, schedule a free orientation session where I will answer all of your questions.