Seven transformative days of inspiration, creativity,
and 1-on-1 mentorship by publishing industry leaders
May 24th-31st, 2025 (Women Only — 1 Spot Left!)
Sept 27th-Oct 4th, 2025 (Women Only — 3 Spots Left!)
KAA’s exclusive Writers Retreats are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with other authors and elevate your writing through workshops and 1-on-1 sessions with a #1 New York Times-bestselling author and ghostwriter, a top literary agent from WME, and a former Big-5 publishing executive who’s acquired, edited, and published more than 35 national bestsellers.
Away from the obligations that sneak between you and your creative output, this immersive experience is for aspiring and veteran authors at any stage of their writing process. Surrounded by the vineyards and olive groves of the iconic Chianti hills, there will be time to write, bond with like-minded peers, eat delicious Italian food, and embark on local excursions designed to inspire you.
By the end of the week, you’ll be empowered to take your writing to a whole new level. But the journey doesn’t end there–within 6 months of your retreat, we will review your progress as a writer and provide detailed feedback on your material.
Retreat Mentors
Inclusions at a Glance
A historic and luxuriously updated villa in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Suites come with a private bathroom and full use of the villa’s amenities, including a private pool, tennis court, billiards room, gym, and gardens.
Within 6 months following the retreat, we will review your query letter and writing progress (up to 75,000 words) and provide detailed written feedback and consultation (approx. $7,500-$10,000 value)
Intensive workshops led by publishing industry leaders, designed to help you improve your writing skills and better understand the publishing landscape.
Daily continental breakfast, lunch, nightly 3-course gourmet Italian dinners by our chef, and one dinner out at a local Michelin-starred restaurant.
Collaborate 1-on-1 with each of your mentors to discuss your manuscript and receive tailored advice on elevating your writing and achieving your publishing goals.
Enjoy our delicious Chianti Classico and extra virgin olive oil while admiring the vineyards and olive grove from which they originate.
Learn traditional Tuscan recipes and techniques from a local chef, followed by enjoying your creations paired with regional wines.
Between workshops and 1-on-1 sessions, you will have plenty of time to explore the region, enjoy the villa amenities, or work on your writing privately.
KAA Writers Retreats in the Press
Limited to a small group of participants, KAA writers retreats offer unprecedented access to publishing’s leading experts.
Learn, Grow, Be Inspired
Picture yourself surrounded by ancient stone walls and endless vineyard views, sipping Chianti Classico while you discuss your latest book idea with a notable literary agent and editor. Later, you share some of your inspiration with your newfound author friends, who are excited to share their progress and receive your feedback as well. In the distance, you hear the ringing of church bells from the quaint medieval town of San Donato, visible across the valley, reminding you that it’s time to join your colleagues on the terrace for an Italian dinner seasoned with the herbs from the estate’s fragrant gardens. After an evening of rich conversation, you walk out onto your private terrace to see the starry Tuscan sky above the glow of distant hilltop towns.
Each day starts with freshly squeezed orange juice, espresso, and an early morning yoga session in the olive grove. Then maybe you’ll wade into the walk-in pool under the warm Tuscan sun. Or perhaps you’ll turn your attention to refining your book idea. Imagine sitting with your laptop far from the distractions of work and family, devoting yourself to writing a few new pages based on your editor’s feedback. However you choose to spend your day, the muse of creativity, combined with an environment tailored to focus your energy, will guide and inspire you.
Each mentor will lead at least one workshop during the week, typically in the mornings. We will adjust the workshop topics to the needs and desires of the attendees, but below is a sample:
→ “Key Elements of Story and Structure”
→ “Prose and Narrative Strategy”
→ “Kill Your Darlings: How to Cut 25% of Your Book to Bring It to Life”
→ “The Compulsive Read: How to Deliver a Story with Strong Narrative Drive”
→ “Perfecting Your Pitch: Query Letters, Proposals, and Publishing Industry Tips”
→ “How to Get Your Book Published in the Current Publishing Landscape”
Receive personalized guidance during private daily sessions with each mentor. These invaluable interactions provide tailored feedback on your specific project, challenges, and writing goals. Your mentors will also take time to get to know you and familiarize themselves with your work in advance of the retreat to ensure you get the most value from the experience.
Between structured sessions, enjoy ample time to write, reflect, and find inspiration in the Tuscan countryside. Whether you choose to work on your manuscript, connect with fellow writers, or explore local villages and vineyards, this flexibility will give you the freedom for both productivity and relaxation.
The Villa: Poggio alle Corti
Your Private Tuscan Paradise
Poggio alle Corti is a nearly 1,000-year-old estate encompassing 14 hectares (35 acres) of gardens, vineyards, fruit orchards, forests, and olive groves. An idyllic setting for creative inspiration, this historic villa combines timeless Tuscan architecture with modern luxury, including a stone-lined pool, tennis court, billiards hall, and gym.
The estate will be solely occupied by the retreat participants.
Villa Inclusions
Meet Your Mentors
#1 New York Times and Sunday Times-Bestselling Author and Celebrity Ghostwriter
Wendy is an experienced writer retreat leader, master storyteller, and #1 New York Times-bestelling ghostwriter and author who has written books with Cher (whose 2024 memoir hit #1 in the US and the UK), Goldie Hawn, Barbara Sinatra, and many others.
A Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and former war correspondent for the London Daily Telegraph, Wendy Holden is the author of more than 40 non-fiction books. Her acclaimed WWII books include The Teacher of Auschwitz, Born Survivors (published in 24 countries), and the UK #1 bestseller Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day, which won a Nielsen award for exceptional sales. Several of her works have been adapted or optioned for film, including One Hundred Miracles and Tomorrow to Be Brave.
A public speaker, podcaster, and book doctor, Wendy teaches creative writing around the world and represents herself as an agent. Her novels include The Sense of Paper (Random House) and The Cruelty of Beauty, soon to be a European film. She is currently writing the first authorized biography of Audrey Hepburn with the star’s son.
Wendy lives on a small farm in Suffolk, England, where she combines her writing with swimming, gardening, and cooking.
Professional Book Coach and Former Literary Agent at WME and Rights Director at Hachette
Over the last three decades, Becka Oliver has worked to support writers at every stage of their careers, from just getting started to publishing their first book and beyond. At two of the Big 5 publishers – Macmillan and Hachette Book Group – she oversaw domestic and foreign rights, negotiating deals worldwide for bestselling and award-winning authors, including Sandra Brown, Nelson DeMille, Nicholas Sparks, Jack Welch, Jon Stewart, and The Daily Show, and more.
In that role, Becka was involved at the early stages of the acquisition process through to publication. As a literary agent, she helped to launch the book department at Endeavor and joined William Morris Endeavor after the two powerhouse talent agencies merged.
She represented authors in both fiction and nonfiction, including New York Times-bestselling novelist Brunonia Barry, screenwriter Kamran Pasha, YA author Joanna Philbin, the popular blog Awkward Family Photos (a #1 New York Times bestselling book), chef Daphne Oz, rockstar Sheryl Crow, and more. Becka has taught classes on The Agent Search, Understanding Publishing Today, and Crafting a Compelling Query Letter.
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Big 5 Executive Editor with 35+ National Bestsellers
Jaime is a book coach and editor at Kevin Anderson & Associates whose distinguished nearly 30-year publishing career includes acquiring and editing 35+ national bestsellers at Warner Books, Grand Central Publishing (Hachette), William Morrow Books, Thomas Dunne Books (Macmillan), and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. As both an editorial director of a fantasy/science fiction imprint and publisher of an independent press, she has developed comprehensive insight into all aspects of the publishing industry.
Specializing in commercial fiction across fantasy, science fiction, horror, suspense, crime, and thrillers, Jaime has worked with an impressive roster of authors, including the estates of J.R.R. Tolkien and Robert Ludlum, Veronica Roth, Hugh Howey, Octavia Butler, and Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child—helping the latter achieve their first #1 New York Times bestseller. Her YA portfolio includes work with Lauren De Stefano and Renée Ahdieh.
Passionate about nurturing creative talent at every stage, Jaime combines her editorial expertise with her experience as an independent editor to guide authors through both traditional and alternative publishing paths. She regularly conducts seminars and workshops on craft and professional development at conferences and writing groups.
Published Novelist, Writer Retreat Coordinator, Yoga Instructor, and International Writing Coach
Leslie Hinson is an American ghostwriter, fiction writer, and editor living in Lisbon, Portugal. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in fiction from Sewanee, University of the South. In an effort to marry her two biggest passions, writing and travel, she started Travels With, a company that facilitates writing retreats in France and Portugal, with plans to expand to other European countries. She teaches fiction and ghostwriting classes for The Porch Writing Collective in Nashville, Tennessee, where she lived for 14 years.
Leslie’s debut novel, Salomé, is forthcoming from Putnam in 2026. She is currently working on the screenplay.
Leslie will also be leading optional yoga sessions every other morning during the retreat.
Who Is This Tuscan Writer Retreat For?
Limited to women only, “Powerful Storytelling” is ideal for any narrative writer looking to elevate their craft and learn how to achieve their publishing goals. Retreat participants comprise a mix of established and aspiring writers, each with their own experiences, personality, and creativity. Our team of mentors will provide a curated workshop itinerary tailored to each group based on the week’s theme and individual author needs.
Guests Allowed
Participants may bring a guest to share their room (+$4,500). Guests may use the grounds and amenities and enjoy meals with the group, but they may not participate in the workshops and 1-on-1 sessions.
Why KAA Writers Retreats in Tuscany?
Connect With and Learn From Fellow Writers
The experience of connecting with fellow writers is transformative for a creative mind. Engaging with a diverse community of authors may offer a treasure trove of insights and wisdom, as each writer brings their unique journey, voice, and perspective. This rich exchange enables you to discover new writing styles, techniques, and narrative approaches—concepts you might not have considered alone.
The collaborative spirit fosters an environment where creativity flourishes.
Furthermore, if you wish to share your work with your peers, the practice of reviewing each other’s work becomes a formative process that sharpens your editing skills and enhances your ability to articulate constructive feedback.
The friends you make at the retreat may end up lasting a lifetime.
Be Inspired by Tuscany
Tuscany is a wealth of inspiration for every writer, rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. The rolling hills, lined with vineyards and olive groves, evoke a sense of peace and creativity that invites the pen to dance across the page. The region’s medieval towns, like Florence and Siena, breathe life into history, showcasing Renaissance art and architecture that tell stories of the past.
Dante Alighieri, an important figure in Tuscan literature, is an inspiration to this land. The Divine Comedy explores deep philosophical and existential themes that resonate through the ages. So too, the legacies of Michelangelo (whose one-time home is near the villa) and Leonardo da Vinci linger. Walking the cobbled streets, one can almost hear their whispers of love, loss, creativity, and the relentless quest for understanding.
In Tuscany, every sunset casts a golden glow on history, every vineyard tells a tale, and every landscape ignites creativity—a vivid backdrop for any writer’s journey into imagination and expression.
Exclusive Access to Top Experts in Writing and Publishing
The KAA Writers Retreat offers a unique and invaluable opportunity to connect and learn directly from some of the industry’s top experts. You’ll be mentored by a #1 New York Times-bestselling writer sharing personal tips and strategies on style and storytelling craft; a former Big-5 executive editor whose custom feedback will demystify the qualities of a successful, publishable manuscript; and a seasoned literary agent offering tailored advice on how to pitch your work effectively and navigate the complexities of the publishing world.
This rare chance brings together powerful voices in publishing, allowing you to gain perspective and actionable guidance that will transform your writing journey. Workshops, discussions, and one-on-one feedback sessions ensure that each participant leaves with tools and inspiration to elevate their craft.
Accountability
Our retreat provides a dedicated space and time to focus on writing, helping to keep you accountable for your creative goals. It offers an inspiring atmosphere that encourages deep reflection and exploration of your craft. Whether you’re polishing existing work, embarking on a new project, or seeking guidance on overcoming writer’s block, this retreat is invaluable.
Being surrounded by fellow writers fosters a supportive environment where you can share challenges and triumphs and encourage one another. This combination of solitude and camaraderie helps cultivate productivity that can be hard to achieve at home, reigniting your passion for storytelling and creativity.
Furthermore, our retreat doesn’t conclude after just seven days. We believe that true growth occurs over time, so we offer a unique follow-up option. Six months after the retreat, we will reconnect to review your progress and re-set specific goals tailored to your individual journey. This ongoing support ensures that you remain engaged and accountable, empowering you and keeping you on the path to achievement.
Incredible Value
The mentorship and intimate access to world-class publishing experts is something you won’t find anywhere else. Our writers retreats represent an extraordinary value when considering the true costs of organizing a similar experience independently, which would easily exceed $30,000 per person when including accommodations, meals, transfers, workshops, expert mentors, and excursions. Our retreats not only offer a unique opportunity to engage with multiple leading publishing experts for an entire week but also take place in a rare, all-inclusive historic villa. The focused time and attention you will receive amidst such inspirational surroundings is invaluable, providing insights and guidance tailored to you and your journey. This one-of-a-kind experience not only fosters personal and professional growth but also cultivates a supportive community, all while you relax and rejuvenate in an exclusive retreat setting.
6-Month Progress Review: Manuscript and Query Letter Analysis
Within six months of attending the retreat, participants have the opportunity to submit their writing concepts, fragments, or full manuscript drafts (up to 75,000 words) for comprehensive review, critique, and analysis. This in-depth evaluation encompasses feedback on various elements of storytelling, including pacing, coherence of plot arc, analysis of narrative drive, inventiveness, worldbuilding, character development, consistency, clarity, overall readability as well as marketability and target audience. The feedback is delivered through detailed margin notes of the manuscript, supplemented by a separate editorial letter that offers a thorough analysis and actionable suggestions for improvement. A Zoom consultation with one of your dedicated retreat leaders will provide personalized insights and guidance.
Your Investment
*Option: All inclusions and benefits, but does not include a 6-month follow-up comprehensive manuscript review and consultation
*Option: All inclusions and benefits, but does not include a 6-month follow-up comprehensive manuscript review and consultation
All amounts are in US Dollars.
Private 6-Day Retreat
Imagine an exclusive writing retreat tailored just for you and your chosen guests, where creative inspiration meets personalized mentorship.
With your own private villa, you’ll enjoy an intimate, distraction-free environment that allows your ideas to flourish. Over the course of six days, you and up to 11 friends or family members will work side by side with seasoned industry professionals, receiving one-on-one guidance that caters specifically to your writing goals. You’ll have access to the villa’s amenities, and all the retreat inclusions noted above, while fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, all designed to elevate your writing journey.
What Authors Say About Our Mentors
FAQs
Do I have to participate in all of the classes?
No, but we hope you do. Our team of mentors has carefully planned their courses to interest and benefit the entire group, no matter where you are with your writing.
Do I have to have a work-in-progress?
Not at all. The one-on-one meetings with editors, agents, and writing instructors can be catered to you and whatever project you have in mind, regardless of development status. If you have a complete manuscript, the work will be about revising and polishing the material and enhancing your craft. If you are partway through the writing process, you can get feedback on your progress and support on moving your book towards completion. If you have the desire to write a book and an idea of what interests you, but have not begun, your editor or writer mentor can work with you for a set time each day to strategize the concept and structure, enabling you to leave the retreat with an actionable outline you can draft a manuscript based on when you return home.
Can I save money by sharing a room?
Yes! If you’re willing to share a room and bathroom with another attendee, or if you’d like to forgo the 6-month progress review, the cost will be reduced (the amount varies per retreat).
You may also bring a guest for an additional fee. While guests may not participate in the workshops and 1-on-1 sessions, there will be optional activities and excursions to enjoy, they will join us for meals, and they will have free use of all the villa’s spaces and amenities.
Can I see a detailed list of the inclusions and amenities?
Please refer to the individual retreat pages for information on inclusions and a general itinerary. A detailed itinerary will be sent to all participants leading up to the retreat.
Pre-Retreat Prep
Courses and Workshops
1-on-1 Sessions
Meals
Manuscript Review and Analysis (optional)
Cooking Class
Wine (Chianti Classico DOCG), Olive Oil, and Balsamic Vinegar
Check-In/Check Out & Transfers
VILLA AMENITIES
Outdoor
Indoor
Gym
Views
Parking for 6+ vehicles (uncovered)
Bathroom Amenities
Housekeeping
VILLA FEATURES
What can I do during my free time?
While some participants enjoy writing or socializing during their free time, others may want to relax and enjoy the villa’s many amenities or explore the region. Keep in mind that the villa is in the countryside, so you will not be able to rely on public transportation to take you to any regional attractions. If you think you’d like to explore, we suggest you rent a car at the Florence airport for the week.
There are many guides to this region available online, and we can also recommend to you specific local attractions, tips, and insights. Some of the many local attractions include:
→Medieval Towns and Villages (including San Gimignano, Castellina, Siena, Volterra, and many more)
→World Class Museums of Florence
→Chianti Wine Tours
→Monastery Tours
→Hiking/Biking
→Hot Air Ballooning
→Leaning Tower of Pisa
Major attractions within 2-3 hours via car or high-speed train:
→Rome
→Venice
→Cinque Terre
→Bologna
→San Marino
→Modena (Ferrari HQ and Museums)
→Orvieto
→Portofino
Accessibility
Unfortunately, the villa is not wheelchair accessible, except for the main floor (which contains no bedrooms). The pool and tennis court are close to the villa but only accessible by walking down a few stone steps. Please note that there are no handrails or disabled facilities in the bathrooms.
Dietary Restrictions
We are happy to provide vegetarian options, but we currently cannot accommodate vegan and gluten-free dietary restrictions.
Are plane tickets included in the price?
No. Participants will be flying in from all over the world with different budgets, timetables, and levels of comfort.
Will airport transportation be offered?
Yes, we will offer transportation to the villa from the Florence airport on Day 1 of the retreat. Participants who choose to fly into other neighboring airports (listed below) can decide to rent a car and drive directly to the villa, or travel by train to Florence and join the group on our airport shuttle. As you solidify your plans, our team can help you iron out these details. Please note that if you plan on exploring the region outside of our group activities, we highly recommend you rent a car for the week so you can come and go as you please.
→Pisa to Florence: 1 hour 45 minutes by train
→Bologna to Florence: 1.5 hours by high-speed train
→Rome to Florence: 3 hours by high-speed train
What is the payment and cancellation policy?
Payments
Cancellation Policy
All payments are nonrefundable.
You may transfer your reservation to another person up to 30 days in advance or transfer your balance to another future retreat date.
In the case of force majeure, in which we are unable to safely run the retreat, your balance will be transferred to a future date of your choosing.
