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 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 Literary Agent
One of the most valuable aspects of the KAA Writers Retreat experience is the opportunity to connect with real publishing professionals.
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 most respected literary agencies in the world.
According to KAA’s Retreat Coordinator Anna Burtt, “I know that 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
Following the retreat, Avner continued to work with Jessica Sindler as his book coach while preparing his proposal with Peter for submission to publishers.
When they ultimately went to market, the results were fast and impressive. 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 Dr. 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 was more than just a week in Tuscany. It became a catalyst that accelerated his writing journey, strengthened his manuscript, and helped him secure representation from one of publishing’s leading literary agents. This led to a six-figure book deal with a major publisher.
We’re incredibly excited for Dr. Avner’s success and proud to be one of the only firms in the world supporting authors at every stage of the publishing process.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss how we can help you achieve your publishing goals.
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