Plan Your Novel on the Riviera Maya

It's been ten years of Wordsmith, and we're ready to celebrate! Join NYT-bestseller Beth Revis and award-winner Cristin Terrill on the beautiful Riviera Maya of Mexico for five days of learning, writing, relaxation, and fun.

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We don't know about y'all, but our 2024 has been a little rough. What better way to start a new year than to let the ocean waves carry the remnants of 2024 away; refill your creative well with sunshine, good food, and great friends; and leave not only feeling inspired but with a comprehensive outline and plan for your next novel? 

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The retreats starts before you even leave, because we believe in beginning as you mean to go on. During the months of January and February, you will have free access to Word Lab, our twice weekly online group writing session. This will jump-start your productivity and give you a chance to get to know your fellow writers. After the retreat is over, Word Lab will help you maintain the enthusiasm and momentum you've built.

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The retreat itself will be in held in a beautiful, private ocean-front home near Playa del Carmen where you'll spend five days with an intimate group of no more than fourteen writers. In the mornings, we'll have round-table pitches overlooking the waves where we'll focus on the marketability of your idea and which aspects illicit the strongest reactions. Later, you'll be grouped into pairs or small groups to critique opening pages.

 

After a delicious lunch prepared by our local chef, you will have free time to grab your laptop (and maybe a margarita) for a writing session by the lagoon-like private pool or lay out on the beach to dream up new ideas. Take a break from the sun for a personalized critique of your entire story outline with Beth -- or brainstorm with her to turn your new idea into a full outline. You also get one-on-one time with Cristin, novelist and certified life coach, who will help you develop a personalized writing plan that navigates around your personal pitfalls to productivity so you can meet your goals.  

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Have more questions or need further advice during the week? No problem, because you'll be eating, writing and hanging out alongside the authors everyday, and they are always happy to help. Unlike other retreats, Beth and Cristin are there the entire time, writing and working right beside you. And when you're ready for a break, cool off in the pool, enjoy a serene walk on the beach with a new friend, or try snorkeling in the turquoise waters just outside the door.

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We take care of all the logistics, including transportation once you've arrived in Mexico, and our private chef will keep you full and happy so you can focus on creating new worlds. All you need is a passport.

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You'll return home with new words written, new enthusiasm, and new friends to join you on your publishing journey!

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For everyone's safety, we ask that all attendees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of a recent negative test may be required based on transmission rates in the winter.

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Due to the unpredictable nature of our current reality, travel insurance is highly recommended.

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