Julia Bartz’s The Writing Retreat captivates with its unique plot and tense atmosphere, suitable for fans of psychological thrillers. Readers appreciate its intriguing premise and character development but critique its pacing and occasional predictability. While the setting enhances the story's suspense, some find the ending less satisfying. A mixed yet engaging read.

Fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives will enjoy The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz. Similar to The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins and Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty, this novel captivates with suspense, exploration of human nature, and unexpected twists.

In Julia Bartz's 2023 debut novel, The Writing Retreat, protagonist Alex receives an unexpected invitation to a writing retreat at the haunted estate of Roza Vallo, a best-selling author and Alex’s favorite writer. Alex's enthusiasm is tempered by her ex-best friend Wren's participation and her own persistent writer’s block. The retreat soon turns competitive as Roza pits the writers against one another for a chance at publication, leading to high-stakes conflict and unforeseen dangers. The story explores themes of creativity, rivalry, and the hunger for artistic recognition. This novel contains fictional portrayals of violence, murder, psychological abuse, and occult activity.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Unnerving

Julia Bartz

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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The Writing Retreat Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Writing Retreat Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The City”

Part 1 The Writing Retreat Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Estate”

Part 2 The Writing Retreat Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Basement”

Part 3 The Writing Retreat Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Attic”

Part 4 The Writing Retreat Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Writing Retreat Character Analysis

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Themes

The Writing Retreat Themes

Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Writing Retreat Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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The Writing Retreat

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Writing Retreat?

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Book Details