The Plot meets Please Join Us in this psychological suspense debut about a young author at an exclusive writer’s retreat that descends into a nightmare.
Alex has all but given up on her dreams of becoming a published author when she receives a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: attend an exclusive, month-long writing retreat at the estate of feminist horror writer Roza Vallo. Even the knowledge that Wren, her former best friend and current rival, is attending doesn’t dampen her excitement.
But when the attendees arrive, Roza drops a bombshell—they must all complete an entire novel from scratch during the next month, and the author of the best one will receive a life-changing seven-figure publishing deal. Determined to win this seemingly impossible contest, Alex buckles down and tries to ignore the strange happenings at the estate, including Roza’s erratic behavior, Wren’s cruel mind games, and the alleged haunting of the mansion itself. But when one of the writers vanishes during a snowstorm, Alex realizes that something very sinister is afoot. With the clock running out, she’s desperate to discover the truth and save herself.
A claustrophobic and propulsive thriller exploring the dark side of female friendships and fame, The Writing Retreat is the unputdownable debut novel from a compelling new talent.
Download and start listening now!
“The book’s pacing—a slow roll of dread and horror—is exceptional…A perfect winter’s night haunting.”
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Sex, suspense, and the supernatural fuel this propulsive debut.”
— People“Stomach-clenchingly thrilling from beginning to end…Highly recommended.”
— Booklist (starred review)“Darkly satirical and action-packed.”
— Wendy Walker, author of The Nigh BeforeJulia Bartz is a Brooklyn-based writer whose fiction writing has appeared in The South Dakota Review, InDigest Magazine, and more. The Writer’s Retreat is her first novel. Follow her on Twitter @JuliaBartz and Instagram at @JuliaBartz.
Karissa Vacker is a multiple AudioFile Earphones Award–winning audiobook narrator and actress. After graduating with a BFA in acting from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, she performed in regional theaters across the country before moving to Los Angeles. She has guest starred in network television shows and films and continues to work on screen and stage. Her audiobook credits include romance, young adult fiction, and mystery thrillers.