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Leslie J. Hall uses her lifelong passion for words to share positive stories of everyday characters, stories that are often funny, always genuine, and leave readers feeling thoughtful and hopeful.

 

Becoming a Planner: Workshop for Recovering Pantsers

Pantser is a term for writers who write by the seat of their pants, vs. starting with a detailed outline. There is no right or wrong way to structure a story, but bit of planning, tailored to your style, can increase the chances of finishing a more workable first draft and creating a strong foundation for your story. Covers character arcs, big scenes, theme, and story question.

Workshop leader has written twelve novels (or partial novels) as a pantser and has learned the hard way the value of having a bit of an idea of where a story is headed before diving in. Workshop is for beginning and intermediate writers of any genre of fiction.

Sept. 26, 2026
1:30-2:30pm PST
Write On The Sound Writers Conference
Register Here

Write on the Sound Writers’ Conference

In-Person Oct. 2-4, 2026 Edmonds, WA

Register Here

Sunday, October 4th 1:30-2:45pm
Truth Told Two Ways: Exploring Fiction and Nonfiction with Christine Dubois & Leslie J. Hall

A fiction writer and a non-fiction writer will discuss how writers use both to communicate powerful ideas and truths. Learn about the similarities and differences between the two forms, where they overlap, and the skills you’ll need to succeed. We will cover basic resources and publishing options for each.

Sunday, October 4th 9:30-10:45am and 11:00am - 12:15pm
Peer Group Critiques: Bring up to 3 pages of a project to read to a small peer group of 4-5 attendees in the genre of your choice (fiction, nonfiction/memoir, poetry). Table moderators will ensure that all writers have equal time to discuss their work. Download Rules and Instructions.
Leslie will lead the fiction critique.

Show AND Tell: A Writers Secret Weapon

Ready to breathe life into your writing and make your stories leap off the page? Join us for a fun, hands-on workshop that unpacks the classic writing advice: Show, Don’t Tell. We’ll break down what it really means—and more importantly, how to actually use it. Through real examples, you’ll learn how to spot ‘telling’ in your prose and transform it into dynamic, engaging ‘showing’ using grammar, voice, point of view, and character reactions. This class is perfect for writers in any genre who want to tighten their storytelling and create a deeper emotional impact on their readers. Whether you’re just starting out or polishing a novel, you’ll walk away with practical tools and a fresh perspective. Let’s make your words work harder—and have some fun doing it!

Sept. 11-12, 2026
In-Person
Southwest WA Writers Conference
Register Here

Beginning Fiction Crash Course

Coming Winter of 2027

Improve the depth and flow of your storytelling in a class designed for new and developing creative writers. You will work step-by-step through a plan for a complete story including developing characters, mapping plot, writing dialogue, and creating exciting beginnings and resolutions. Bring pen and paper and be prepared to write; you will have lots of exercises and opportunities for feedback. Don't spend another day NOT writing--join us and bring your stories to life.


Online via Zoom
6:30 - 8:30pm PT
North Seattle College
Register Here

Use Write-a-Novel-in-30-Days Fundamentals to Support Your Writing Journey

Want to supercharge your writing and finally get that story out of your head and onto the page? This energizing workshop borrows the best principles from the Write-a-Novel-in-30-Days method to help you set big goals, build better writing habits, and draft faster than you ever thought possible. Whether you’re working on a novel, short story, or nonfiction project, you’ll learn how to plan ahead, write without editing, and embrace the glorious messiness of a first draft. We’ll explore how to push yourself creatively, carve out time even in a busy life, and stay motivated through the ups and downs of a writing sprint. It’s all about progress over perfection. Perfect for writers at any level, this class offers practical tools, fresh energy, and the encouragement you need to hit your goals and maybe even surprise yourself. Come ready to write—and to prove just how much you can do!

Oct. 5 - Oct. 30, 2026
Forum-Style Class via a website - follow at your leisure
RWA Hearts Thru History Chapter
Register Here

WRITE NIGHT

A Gathering of Puget Sound Fiction & Nonfiction Writers

Write Night is a small weekly facilitated writer's support/critique class. Enjoy coaching, creative writing exercises, and a chance to share your writing with people who understand you. Get regular feedback and create a support system for your writing life.  Write Night can become your built-in deadline and will help you write more, high-quality manuscripts.

Learn More

Write Night IS ONLINE!

Weekly - Thursdays Nights
6:15-7:45pm pacific time
Online via Zoom
Email us to get on our mailing list to get notice to RSVP and receive weekly logon details. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Corporate training available

Business Writing Basics

Quote from recent attendee:

“It was the best three hours of training in which I’ve participated in a long time. You did a great job of covering a lot of material and giving us enough in the handout to be able to go back over what you taught us after the training session ended.  It was time and money well spent.” Jamie

  • Climb Out of The Exhaustion Pit: Avoid Burnout and Learn to Thrive!
  • Connections Matter: Mentoring
  • Goal Setting for Personal and Professional Success
  • Improving Your Email Communications 
  • No Magic Lamp Needed: How to Ask for What You Need for Professional Development
  • Setting and Sticking to Priorities for Professional and Personal Success
  • The Power of Words
  • Writing About Me (How to write resume summaries, performance self-reviews, and more)

“Leslie is always such an awesome and motivational speaker. I love any subject she presents and can't wait for her next webinar!”

©2026 Leslie Hall