The Novel Studio: From Manuscript to Market in 6 Months
You will find guidance, community, and feedback in PocketMFA’s Novel Studio, a six-month program designed to both generate words (78,000+) and the strategy and know-how for getting your book into the market.
A complete novel. A polished submission package. A roadmap to publication.
- Draft or revise 78,000+ words, guided by clear monthly targets and craft-focused assignments.
- Work 1-on-1 with a mentor: Each month includes a Zoom session and developmental feedback on 8000 words.
- Attend 25+ live seminars taught by publishing professionals (agents, editors, authors, marketers)
- Craft your submission package: Query letter, synopsis, author bio, comps, logline, and sample pages
- Collaborate in a private cohort of up to 8 writers with writing sprints, peer check-ins, and an active community chat
Next Steps:
Complete your free application, or RSVP for a one-on-one info session with Lauren.
Whether you’re starting a brand-new manuscript or are deep in revision, this immersive program combines 1-1 time with an expert mentor, professional publishing insight, and a highly structured writing plan to help you finish—and launch—your novel.
Our Assistant Director, Lauren T. Davila, will be teaching in the upcoming cohort and this is what she had to say:
“Beyond my work at PocketMFA, I am an author, anthologist, and most importantly, an Acquisitions Editor. Every day, I see query letters, synopses, and summaries from authors with fantastic plot ideas, but the execution just isn’t apparent on the page. My goal with the new Novel Studio is to bring my expertise in developmental editing and publishing know-how to you. Let’s get your novel ready!”
Brad Barkley and S. Jae-Jones will also serve as mentors for writers in the Novel Studio.
You’ll move through three major phases—Drafting, Editing, and Publishing Prep—with a clear plan each month. Seminars cover everything from pacing, comp titles, and fast drafting techniques to platform-building and submission strategy. We expect writers to commit at least 15-20 hours per week to the program: reading, writing, and attending seminars and meetings. We will set up a writing contract within the first two weeks of the program to establish goals and an individualized syllabus.
The Spring cohort begins March 1st and spots are limited. Tuition for the program is $5,997, with payment plans, partial scholarships, and alumni discounts available. Enrollment will be capped at 8 writers and preference will be given to alumni of our PocketMFA 16-week cohort.
What do writers say about our curriculum?
Hundreds of writers have seen their work published, their strengths accelerate, and their community grow in our research-based program.
Tara — Fall ’25
“The standout part of Novel Studio for me was working with editor Lauren T. Davila. Our feedback sessions gave me the kind of grounded, craft-specific direction that actually moves a draft forward. Afterwards, I had better clarity, a tangible strategy, and momentum; her genuine enthusiasm for my work encouraged me to keep going and trust what I’m building.”
NJ — Fall ’25
“The Pocket MFA program has supported me in my growth as a writer more deeply than any other program I’ve been involved with. I have obtained a conventional MFA and taken many classes online, but this has been by far the most practical and useful. I recommend it highly to serious writer.