The Writer’s Edit

Transform your manuscript. Connect with industry leaders. Elevate your craft.

Nestled in the spectacular valley of the river Cereus, just two hours from Athens, The Candili Estate lies in spectacular scenery in the valley of the river Cereus in the North of Euboea, about 2 hours from Athens. This exclusive seven-day intensive brings together ambitious writers with the industry's most influential gatekeepers in an intimate, transformative setting.

An Unparalleled Opportunity

The WRITER’S EDIT isn't just another retreat—it's your pathway to publication. We've assembled an extraordinary faculty of top-tier literary agents from New York and London, alongside a renowned editor and an internationally acclaimed bestselling author as your master book coach. This rare convergence of industry expertise creates an environment where manuscripts don't just improve—they get discovered.

Your Industry Insiders

Literary Agents from Premier Agencies

· Representatives from leading US and UK literary agencies

· Specialists across fiction, memoir, and commercial non-fiction

· Combined decades of experience launching debut and established authors

· Direct access to decision-makers who shape publishing careers

Distinguished Editor

· Senior editor

· Track record of nurturing manuscripts from rough draft to bestseller

· Expert in developmental editing and market positioning

Master Book Coach

· Internationally bestselling novelist with over 30 published titles

· Acclaimed writing coach and creator of revolutionary story methodologies

· Expert in transforming struggling manuscripts into compelling narratives

· Literary, genre and commercial fiction

The Experience

Intensive Pitch Sessions Writers get face-to-face time with those in the industry who often appear unreachable. If done correctly, these three-to-ten-minute sessions can land a writer an agent and eventually a book contract. Each participant enjoys:

· Three 15-minute one-on-one pitch sessions with different agents

· Personalised feedback on your query letter and synopsis

· Real-time guidance on refining your pitch

· Follow-up submission opportunities for promising projects

Master Classes & Workshops

· "The Art of the Hook" - Opening lines that agents can't ignore

· "Market Intelligence" - Understanding current publishing trends

· "The Business Behind the Book" - Contract negotiations and publishing paths

· "Manuscript Makeover" - Live editing sessions with the resident editor

· "The Story Equation" - Revolutionary plotting methodology from our master coach

· "Character Chemistry" - Creating unforgettable protagonists

· "Platform Building" - Creating an author brand that sells

Intimate Manuscript Reviews

· Small group workshops (maximum 6 writers per session)

· Line-by-line feedback from industry professionals

· Genre-specific breakout sessions led by our master coach for crime/thriller writers

· Signature "Story Health Check" - diagnostic sessions for stuck manuscripts

· Peer critique circles guided by publishing experts

Evening Salons Unwind in Candili's main house and Granary outbuildings during our signature evening gatherings:

· Wine tastings with informal agent Q&As

· Publishing industry storytelling sessions

· Networking dinners under the Greek stars

· Late-night manuscript consultations in the moonlight

The Setting

Candili makes a great base from which to explore the island and enjoy the many beaches. This distinguished estate accommodates up to 18 guests in authentic Greek hospitality. Between intensive sessions, restore your creative energy exploring ancient olive groves, swimming in pristine waters, or finding inspiration in the seminar hall that doubles as your private writing sanctuary.

This investment includes five days that could change your publishing trajectory forever.

Limited to 18 Writers

We maintain an intimate environment where every participant receives substantial individual attention.

Dates & Application

September 20th – 26th, 2026

Early Bird Deadline: 30 April, 2026 (10% discount)

Final Application Deadline: August 20th, 2026

This is more than a retreat—it's a launching pad. Join us where literary dreams meet industry reality, where manuscripts transform into publications, and where your writing journey takes its most important turn.

Apply now. Your published future awaits.