Thoughts on the Writer’s retreat from Sophie Hannah

What made you excited to join us for our first writers’ retreat in Naxos this September?

The retreat setting looks absolutely blissful - so much so that I couldn't resist! Also, I love being on retreat with writers, and trying to help and inspire them as much as I can! That's what I do in my Dream Author Programme, and it's become a real passion of mine.

Why do you think having a publisher, editor, and book coach together in one retreat creates such a valuable experience for writers?

Because a huge wealth and variety of experience and expertise is on offer. One of the things I'm most looking forward to is working in conjunction with Jamie and Elly.

In your experience, what are the biggest challenges writers face when trying to move from idea to finished book?

Their own mistaken assumptions, based on unhelpful stories and supposed pieces of wisdom that are floating around in literary circles. Eg: the idea that 'It's very hard for writers at the moment' or 'If 10 agents have said no, then I might as well give up'. These are simply not true facts in the world, they are simply thoughts that enter our heads or are offered to us...and we believe they are solid facts and therefore get discouraged. There is another much better-feeling way to proceed, and it creates way more successful results too!

What kind of support and transformation do you hope writers will experience during this retreat?

A massive transformation - after this retreat, participants will feel a gazillion times better and understand how to a) enjoy and love the process of writing and trying to get published, and b) create more success in every way.

Even if you haven’t been to Naxos before, what do you imagine a beautiful island setting can bring to the creative writing process?

To be surrounded by beautiful nature will be a real treat, and massively inspiring.