KAA Writers Retreat in Tuscany
“Nonfiction Masterclass”
September 17-23, 2026
Retreat Mentors
Below are some of the topics and workshops covered during this retreat
Discover what makes a nonfiction concept truly marketable. Learn how to position yourself as the go-to expert, identify your target audience, and craft a fresh hook that captures both agents and readers.
Demystify the proposal process with guidance from top agents and editors. Understand what publishers look for, how to structure a compelling proposal, and how to showcase your story and expertise for maximum impact.
Learn how today’s bestselling nonfiction blends authority with authenticity. Discover how to weave your own experiences and voice into your material to make your message memorable and emotionally resonant.
Step inside the publishing pipeline with a leading literary agent. From signing to submission to publication, see what really happens behind the scenes — and what decisions determine a book’s success.
Your book’s success starts with its hook. Learn how to distill your concept into a sharp, irresistible idea that speaks to the right audience — and makes agents and publishers lean in.
Discover how to deliver exactly what your title and concept promise. This interactive session helps you align structure, tone, and reader expectations to ensure your book connects deeply and delivers on its potential.
Meet Your Mentors
EXEC EDITOR, KAA
New York Times– and Sunday Times-bestselling editor and former acquisitions editor for Biteback Publishing
With over two decades of experience in the publishing industry, James has edited and published multiple Sunday Times bestselling authors including Alastair Campbell, Damian McBridge, Liz Truss, Ken Hom, Eliza Filby, Terry Jones, Anthony Seldon and Andrew Pierce.
He led Biteback Publishing for sixteen years, steering it to become one of the UK’s leading independent publishers of commercial non-fiction. Specialising in politics, business and current affairs, but with a broad range of experience across other genres including sport, history, music, military and memoir, James’ overriding passion is working with new authors of all abilities to identify the story they want to tell and helping them frame and develop it. His approach to editing combines imagination, publishing experience and commercial focus to help writers structure and strategise their writing and deliver a product true to them but with maximum sales potential.
AUTHOR
Bestselling author & ghostwriter
Holly Crawshaw (publishing under the name Holly Joyner) is a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, developmental editor, and author-coach whose career spans nearly two decades and more than 1,000 books. Known for her ability to transform powerful ideas into bestselling narratives, she has collaborated with major publishers and high-profile figures across entertainment, faith, and leadership.
Holly’s diverse client list includes:
Her editorial guidance has helped shape books that reached New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists — many debut works from first-time authors who went on to build national platforms. Holly combines structural precision with a gift for voice and vulnerability, helping thought-leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs turn their life stories and expertise into books that move readers and build legacies.
Respected throughout the publishing industry for her clarity, integrity, and creative partnership, Holly brings the perspective of someone who has been behind the scenes of dozens of bestselling projects. Her insight into nonfiction storytelling, message development, and author branding makes her an invaluable mentor for anyone seeking to elevate their craft and impact.
Announcing soon!
This retreat will be joined by an industry-leading literary agent from a major agency who specializes in nonfiction.
Mentor will be announced not later than January 1st, 2026.
Retreat Rooms and Pricing
Room-Sharing Options