At Kevin Anderson & Associates, our Writers Retreats don’t just help authors improve their manuscripts. They also connect attendees with world-class publishing experts, sparking relationships that can lead to real breakthroughs.
We recently witnessed a powerful example of this with KAA client Dr. Avner Hershlag.
A leading fertility specialist, Avner had already begun working with our Managing Executive Editor Jessica Sindler through our Book Coaching program. With her help, he developed the concept for a nonfiction book exploring the history, science, and future of fertility medicine. As the project evolved, he decided to keep moving forward by joining our Nonfiction Masterclass in Tuscany.
What followed was a week of insight and inspiration, against the backdrop of Poggio alle Corti, our private villa. The retreat brought together a small group of writers and a talented team of mentors, including Sindler, veteran publishing executive Roger Scholl, and literary agent Peter Steinberg from United Talent Agency (UTA).
From intensive workshops and one-on-one consultations to shared meals overlooking the vineyards, the experience offered Avner an unparalleled opportunity to immerse himself in both the craft and business of publishing.
“Hearing these three mentors speak and interacting with them on a daily basis was extremely informative,” he said. “I’ve done other writing courses and things of that sort that don’t even come close to this.”
Throughout the week, Avner refined his book concept, learned about publishing strategy, and developed a clearer vision for the future of his project.
But that was only the beginning.
Connecting with a Top Literary Agent from UTA
During the retreat, Avner and Peter Steinberg developed a strong connection through one-on-one discussions about Avner’s work and long-term goals. Peter later offered to represent Avner’s book proposal through UTA, one of the world’s top literary agencies.
As KAA’s Retreat Coordinator Anna Burtt described it, “The delightful intensity and bonding element of our writing retreats allowed Peter and Avner to get to know each other in a way that wouldn’t be easily replicated online or on the phone. There’s nothing like sharing a meal, a coffee, or a glass of wine with someone to know that you want to work with them in the future.”
Signing a Six-Figure Book Deal with HarperCollins
Avner’s upcoming book FERTILE, a new look into the little-known history of the field of IVF (in vitro fertilization), sold in a six-figure deal to Lisa Sharkey at Harper Influence, with Maddie Pillari editing, in a pre-empt. It’s scheduled for publication in coordination with the 50th anniversary of the first IVF baby, exploring how the field has evolved from making babies to the ability to customize our future children—fundamentally shifting our society and reshaping what it means to be human.
While Avner’s publishing story is still unfolding, his experience demonstrates the unique power of combining expert coaching with direct access to industry leaders. For Avner, the KAA Writers Retreat became a catalyst that accelerated his writing journey, strengthened his manuscript, and helped him find an agent and publisher.
We’re thrilled for Avner, and proud to be one of the only firms in the world supporting authors through every stage of the publishing process.
To learn more about how our editors, coaches, and ghostwriters can help you elevate your writing and achieve publishing success, schedule a free call with our team.
And if you’re ready to experience a transformative KAA writing retreat in Tuscany, click here to see our upcoming dates and discover everything that’s included.
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