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The Writing Retreat

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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 binge-worthy debut novel from a compelling new talent.

©2022 Julia Bartz (P)2023 Simon & Schuster
Psychological Suspense Thriller & Suspense Women's Fiction Fiction Emotionally Gripping
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Pacey and unusual. Keeps you guessing about motives Well written I think as I had o finish listen in my lounge ( normally I listen whilst ealking thr dog).

enjoyed

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This was so much fun to listen to. A great gothic thriller with some elements of horror. Wonderfully over the top and very gripping. I listened to it all over two days. She writes complex layered women and gives them agency. I’d definitely read her next one.

Hammer Horror!

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This book was okay for an easy holiday read. Nothing too deep or taxing but a somewhat enjoyable thriller.

Not for me

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It had good premise but became a little boring. Random graphic sex scenes thrown in for no reason? The ending fell flat too. A okay listen, and narration was good too.

An okay read but a bit of a drag.

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I was surprised by how good this was. I couldn't stop listening. The characters emotion was captured so well

Intense and gripping

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