Chuck says: Here’s the deal. Writer Katharina Gerlach is a writer from Germany who writes fantasy and historical novels for all ages, both in English and German. She previously wrote for me on the blog. She is giving away a free scholarship to a boot camp online worth some dough. Check it out! (Update: Janel won.)

Katharine Gerlach
A FREE SCHOLARSHIP TO A RANDOM POST COMMENTER
“I am Katharina Gerlach, a writer from Germany. Since I grew up bilingual, I have used many Creative Writing resources from the U.S. and benefited from them. But the most useful course I took was Holly Lisle’s “How to Think Sideways – Career Survival School for Writers” (aka HTTS).
“Sure, no one can teach talent, but Holly instructs her students in the craft like no one else. In her course, she addresses everything from the right mindset for writing, to building believable characters, creating a plot without over-or under-planning and the basics of revision and querying. Also, the added forum grew a wonderful community of writers always ready to help.
“A graduate just signed a three-book deal with a British publisher, and others have won contests or published short stories. Some are slowly building a successful platform of faithful readers by selling quality e-books.
“So, why do I offer a full scholarship for her course (value $300)? The answer is simple. I’ve met so many helpful writers on this blog and on others that I want to give something back to the writing community. If you want to participate, leave a comment on this blog post (and include an e-mail address). I will choose a random winner in one week’s time with the details on how to claim the price.”
Learn more about online writing classes.
ABOUT ME
“If you are interested in my progress or my work, I’d be delighted if you followed my blog or read my free, illustrated fantasy novel, The Witches of Greenwitch and spread the love.”

get a sub to the magazine, a sub to
WritersMarket.com and much more.
(A $190 value for $50!)
Want more on this topic?
- Agent Janet Reid provides 20 Query Letter Tips.
- Confused about formatting? Check out Formatting & Submitting Your Manuscript.
- Read about What Agents Hate: Chapter 1 Pet Peeves.
- Want the most complete database of agents and what genres they’re looking for? Buy the 2011 Guide to Literary Agents today!






I have been following Holly Lisle for about a month now. I try and read at least one thing off of her site a day. I love what she has to offer. If it is not to late, I would love for a chance to win her actual course. My email is thecarolofstorey@gmail.com Thank you.
Saturday, April 23,2001 4:32p.m.(CST)I’ve got 2 partially completed historical romances.I’ve hit the sagging middles and can’t figure out where I’ve gone wrong. The boot camp would help me get back on track. I believe in my stories and feel they’ll be publishable when they’re finished.
How nice of you to "pay it forward" and offer this opportunity! You’ve learned that when you give, you also receive in full measure and then some.
This sounds awesome. Good luck to everyone (with the contest, but also with their writing since only one person can win the contest but, theoretically we could all become published authors).
Thank-you for the offer. How wonderful to give back to the writing community. May the selfless abundance you share be returned to you. Shanti. Penny
I’m a freelance writer and have always wanted to write a novel. Since I don’t live off my writing and am mostly a housewife, I can’t afford writing workshops. This would be a great opportunity for me. I’m 42 years old but I’m not giving up on my dream. Please pick me!!
I’ve been reading Holly’s free tips for a while, and they’re pretty amazing. Unfortunately I can’t afford her courses. It’s so kind of you to offer a scholarship!
I’m amazed at how often I’m seeing Holly online now. At first I thought just a few people knew about her now it’s like she’s everywhere. Good call on the scholarship. Love your blog too. Very well put together.
It is tres cool that you are offering one lucky writer this great opportunity. You’re the cat’s pajamas, Cat! Love the blog too!
Your kindness is inspirational. Knowledge of the craft is a priceless gift. It gives you the confidence and courage to reveal your passion to the world.
What a breath of fresh air! Since my choice of taking my gift with words seriously and making a career of it, I have been on the quest of learning. What I have learned is that knowledge almost always comes with a hefty price tag. Finding the opportunity your generosity is offering is like finding a golden nugget in a mountain of rocks. Whomever you choose will be fortunate indeed!
After reading through Holly’s website I came away with lots of motivation and warm thoughts of learning from an expert in a concise manner. I would love to have the opportunity to grow in the craft of fiction writing. Thanks to Katharina for providing the scholarship. Good luck to you in your efforts.
I’ve been considering Holly’s course for some time, but money is a problem. Please enter me! Thanks!
I just read my comment (6 comments back) and I made it sound like I wasn’t interested in the boot camp if I won. Not true. I would love to win. Please enter me!
I stumbled upon Holly’s site sometime last year…every free article she has up is so worth it! I never have gotten a chance to try an actual course from her. Her advice is great–loved her article on revising.
Thanks for giving back!!
My email came up funny so here it is just in case. JJIracheta@gmail.com
Thanks for giving back!!
A writer in two languages? Wow. You have my admiration.
This opportunity is serendipitous. I was asking someone about Holly’s course, trying to determine if it worth the money. She sent me here. My life circumstances have changed, money is tight, but I want to pursue my writing as a career. I was seriously considering the course if it is worth the money. It would be wonderful to win the course. And who knows, I might actually be able to pass it forward if the course helps jumpstart my writing career.
Now I’m off to look for your books. I love discovering new authors!
Wow! Sign me up! : ) Beth
I had some trouble posting a comment, so I apologize if this is a duplicate. I would love to take this course, but it would not be possible for our family at this time. It’s a very generous giveaway!
Wowzas! Thanks for the chance, Katharina (& Chuck)! Holly Lisle is fabulous!
ricki(at)rickischultz(dot)com
What a nice offer! Sounds like a great course.
Katharina,
What was the best part about taking Holly’s course?
Marianne Donley
I’m so sorry that I only got one scholarship to offer. There seem to be so many nice people here.
Katharina, Some day I want to be just like you … able to give back to those struggling to get published. This workshop sounds perfect for my writing journey. Now, I’ll go check out your blog and other works. Thanks again for being so gracious!
Barbara(dot)evers(at)gmail(dot)com
That is a wonderful prize. Thank you for your generosity.
Tina
tina(dot)christopher7(at)googlemail(dot)com
You rock Katharina! Two days ago I found Holly Lisle’s website, specifically because I was looking into the classes she offers. I was going to talk to my wife this morning about finding the money for one, instead I saw this and I had to comment. Maybe I’ll get lucky
Thanks again for the chance!
This would be really helpful! Crossing my fingers!
I would be thrilled to take a workshop with Holly Lisle. Please enter me in your contest. Thank you, Katharine, for your generosity.
Bella
Cat, how nice of you. Thanks! Put my name in the hat, please!
Best,
Carolyn
How lovely of you! I’ve been reading about Holly’s courses and wondering when I’d manage to take one.
Karen – kawyle@kiva.net
Oh, pick me! Pick me!
I love the opportunity to learn more about developing my work. It is great when a writer takes care of another one. I will definetly pay it forward if I get this great opportunity.
Deborah @ThirtyCreative
thirty.creativestudio@gmail.com
I love Holly’s insights and haven’t had the money for a full course. This would be great! Thanks to all the published writers who give back to those of us just starting out.
What a generous offer. Thank you for giving back to the writing community!
What a wonderful gift to someone. It is a fantastic opportunity.
Thank you so much for being generous and offering such an awesome opportunity!
I first saw this in the middle of the night and thought it was but another menopausal misunderstanding. But in the light of day…it is real! Thanks for the swell opportunity and good luck to all.
This is a fantastic offer. Thanks for making it available.
I’m always impressed when people like Katherine give back to the writing community. Thanks!
How exciting! Thanks for this opportunity.
I’ve been following various writer’s blogs for the last 5 months or so, and have been so encouraged by the generosity of other writers. You’ve offered someone a wonderful opportunity – cheers.
Cat, I love this contest! So fantastic.
Wow–thank you! Your generosity comes at a time when I’ve been beaten down by NO and just want to throw in the towel. I could definitely use some inspiration!
What a gracious and wholly karmic thing to do. Thank you! I have put your blog on my reader.
I’ve never taken one of Holly Lisle’s classes, but I’d love the chance.
Sign me up! Sounds amazing.
Sweet offer! Thank you.
I’m just starting out, working on my first right now. The beginning of the first even. I’m excited to see so many blogs and pages supporting writers. Thank you for your generosity.
What an incredibly generous offer! This seems like a fantastic way to give back.
You have proved once again how generous writers are. Thank you.
What an awesome prize! Thank you Katharina for your generosity!
I’d loooooveee to win!! It would be the kick in the pants I need.
What a wonderful thing you’re offering! As a long-time lurker on this blog, thank you for the opportunity to learn more.
Hmmm…seven years of false starts, skipped over? That sounds heavenly.
I love Holly Lisle–from her newsletter to her quotes, she’s inspirational. What a fantastic opportunity. Thanks, Katharine!
As the others have said, this is a very kind and generous offer – thank you, Cat! I’ve not heard of Holly’s course before, but I would love to try it. I’m also eager to check out your blogs.
Holly’s writing advice is something I’ve found enlightening in the past, and I still think of her map drawing story every time I create a map for worlds that I create. As soon as I saw your post I knew this was something I had to try for! Very exciting to think I might have a chance to take her course, I know I could learn so much. I’ve enjoyed her novels as well.
And to throw in a free, illustrated fantasy novel? Thank you.
I have been a fan of Holly’s for awhile. I know her writing techniques are fantastic! Thank-you, Katharine, for the generous contest!!
Such a helpful site already, thanks for posting this!
I would be delighted to take this course! I know how important it is to continually hone my craft and never grow complacent as a writer. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!
I would love this. Fingers crossed.
I absolutely love following Holly Lisle’s website and newsletter but can’t afford the class at the moment. I know from a few friends who have taken Holly’s class that the winner of this scholarship will be getting a wonderful gift! (crossing fingers that it’s me!)
That is really cool of you!
Thanks for this generous offer!
I’ve followed Holly’s advice on plotting and scenes from her site and can honestly say that the winner is getting quite an opportunity.
What a generous person! Thank you so much for the opportunity. The writing community is certainly fortunate to have you in its midst.
valerie.norris at hotmail.com
I love these blogs. So informative and helpful! Keep up the great work!