VIKKI PATIS

I’ve been considering offering mentoring sessions to writers for a while now, but something was getting in the way: imposter syndrome. My life-long companion is intent on slowing me down wherever it can by telling me I’m not good enough. But after chatting to some fellow authors and mentors, I decided to bite the bullet and go for it.

But why do I think I should be a mentor? Well, it’s got nothing to do with ego and everything to do with experience. I’ve been published since 2018, and since then have been with four different publishers – one digital first imprint, one indie, and two traditional/Big 4 publishers – and I’ve navigated contracts both with and without a literary agent. I’ve had highs and lows and everything in between, from bestseller badges to wrestling rights back when a contract wasn’t being fulfilled. It’s been a whirlwind, and I wouldn’t have got this far without the support of the author community.

Many new writers enter the publishing industry blind, and are further dazzled by the smoke and mirrors that seem to obscure this world. I want to introduce more transparency and less confusion, in a safe environment for both new and experienced writers. There are absolutely no silly questions, and anything discussed during our sessions will be kept entirely confidential. I’m also well aware of my limitations and will be up-front about them, signposting you to other avenues wherever I can.

On a more personal level, I’m both queer and disabled, I come from a working-class background, and I have a day job, so I understand how difficult it can be to juggle everything alongside writing. Sometimes the publishing world can feel too fast-paced, or otherwise impenetrable, but I’m here to encourage you to find your own path.

My diary for mentoring sessions opens in June (after I’ve submitted some rather intensive structural edits!), but bookings are open now. My diary may close and reopen as my schedule dictates, but I hope to provide sufficient availability to those interested. We’ll start with a free, no obligation 30 minute chat, where we can discuss what you’re looking for and whether I’m the right person to help. From there, you can book 1 hour sessions to discuss anything you like, and I also offer a submission package critique to help make your agent/publisher submissions as strong as possible. Full information can be found here.

If you have any questions or are unsure if mentoring is for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I can’t wait to start chatting with you!