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

**Alex**  
An aspiring writer and the story's first-person narrator, who grapples with feelings of isolation and seeks recognition and connection throughout a transformative writing retreat.

**Wren**  
Alex's former friend and roommate, who exudes confidence and poise in contrast to Alex's uncertainty, becomes an integral part of Alex's journey both as an ally and a source of tension.

**Roza Vallo**  
A renowned author hosting the writing retreat, she is a complex and influential figure whose behavior and reputation significantly impact Alex and the other participants.

Julia Bartz

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Part 1: “The City”

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Part 2: “The Estate”

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Part 3: “The Basement”

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Part 4: “The Attic”

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