The Ink-Smudged Writing Desk
Helen Redfernexploring the messy, beautiful process of creativity — the hidden stories behind books, films, music, and my own writing journey
| Platform |  | Pricing | Freemium | Publishes | Twice weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issues | 311 | Founded | 5 years ago | Last Issue | 8 days ago |
| Active | |||||
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helenredfern.substack.comLatest Issues
STORIES FROM MY DESK | April 2026: A Monthly Update on Writing, Reading & Watching
It’s been a little longer than a month since my last ‘Stories…’ and, for someone who spends a lot of time sitting on the settee in the corner of the kitchen, I feel a lot has happened. Nothing massive. Just lots of teeny-tiny steps.
After...
Virtual Body-Doubling Writing Sessions
Links for the month of May.
Tomorrow, Monday, is one of our May Bank Holidays here in England. But I will still be at my desk at 10 am (UK time) to host my virtual body-doubling writing sessions to continue with my novel. After…
Writing The First 5,000 Words of My Novel (After Fifteen Years)
Notes on Perimenopause, Reinvention, and Rewriting My Novel’s Protagonist
On November 10th 2025, I wrote the opening line for my new novel. I say new novel, but actually, this was an idea I’ve had for years. At least fifteen years, possibl...
Are You Struggling to Finish Your Creative Project?
Chapter Five of my Non-Fiction Book: Stop Hiding Under the Desk
Following on from Chapter One, Chapter Two, Chapter Three, and Chapter Four, today I’m sharing the first draft of Chapter Five from my non-fiction book, Stop Hiding Under the...
CRUMBS FROM THE WRITING DESK #8
Sharing what has been happening behind the scenes of my writing life during the week.
This week includes:
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Feeling like a writer again
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A new venture for my Substack: virtual body-doubling writing sessions
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Actual fiction...
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