https://www.ardencoutts.com/virtual-writing-retreats/self-publishing-101

The latest Wandering Creative virtual writing retreat is available. Use promo code SLAY5 for $5 off! Kiss the Dragon or Slay It? A Virtual Writing Retreat on Romantasy vs. Fantasy Are you writing a sweeping fantasy epic, or a love-soaked romantasy, and not quite sure where the line is? Kiss the Dragon or Slay It? is a virtual writing retreat designed to help authors understand the key differences between fantasy and romantasy, how reader expectations shape story structure, and how to intentionally build a novel that delivers on the promise of its genre. Whether your story leans toward epic quests, emotional bonds, or somewhere deliciously in between, this retreat will help you decide: Are you here for the dragon… or the kiss? https://www.ardencoutts.com/virtual-writing-retreats

I’ve been quietly turning something over in my mind lately. The next writing retreat is tentatively planned for April. Right now, nothing is set in stone. And that’s intentional. I’m at the stage where I want to ask the right questions before locking anything in:What kind of retreat do we need right now?What kind of space would feel supportive, energizing, and sustainable?What would actually serve your writing? Here are the things I’d love your thoughts on: ✨ Theme Some ideas I’ve been playing with (very loosely): - Tropes – Exploring different tropes and what makes them unique. - Fantasy vs. Romantasy – Discovering the differences between these two genres and how to write in each. - Structuring Your Novel – Learning how to structure your novel based on your genre. Is there a theme that feels especially resonant right now? ⏰ Format I’m strongly considering making this a half-day, writing-intensive retreat instead of a full-day event. Something like: - short opening grounding + intention-setting - multiple focused writing blocks - optional discussion or reflection - quiet accountability and community presence 📝 Topics & Structure If we do include some guided content, I’m curious what would be most helpful: - short craft talks? - mindset + permission-focused conversations? - goal-setting and next-step clarity? - writing sprints with gentle check-ins? Or would you prefer something almost entirely write-focused, with minimal instruction?

The dark romance virtual writing retreat is quickly approaching! If you haven't registered yet at www.ardencoutts.com yet let me know and I'll share a discount code for the retreat! The retreat is on Valentine's Day, FEB 14th from 10 am - 6 pm. It's a long day but totally worth it! Peep the agenda below!

Meet Montrez! She is one of our speakers for the December 14th Writing Retreat! Montrez lives in the moody Midwest with her husband and three sons. Inspired by superheroes, anime, and an eclectic mix of literature, she is passionate about creating fantastical fiction with feeling for soft hearts and bold souls. She is also committed to helping other authors and creatives bring their stories to life. She has worked as a developmental editor and creative consultant and is currently the Editor-In-Chief of Konkret Comics, a multi-award-winning, indie comic book publishing company. Outside of her work, she loves spending time with her family, watching all the latest shows, browsing in bookstores with friends, and daydreaming over cups of coffee and tea. Topic: Taking the Creative Scenic Route Description: If you’re a recovering perfectionist, a people pleaser, a bit of a workaholic, and a passionate dreamer or creative who feels like you’re collapsing under the weight life has placed on your shoulders, this system is for you. Exit the highway of booked, busy, and burned out, and trade the hustle and grind for a softer, more sustainable mindset and method to writing and creativity. Build differently at the pace your heart, mind, and body can hold. Take the creative scenic route… Explore the creative scenic route mindset, set honest goals, and learn the art of orbiting over juggling. PSSST....I highly recommend checking out Montrez's Patreon page. It's so full of amazing stories and creativity, and it's just a wonderful place to get lost for a while! https://patreon.com/AuthorMontrez?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink If you know anyone who this retreat would be a good fit, send them over to https://www.ardencoutts.com/virtual-writing-retreats/holiday