Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books/Emily Bestler Books for gifting me a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review of the debut novel, The Writing Retreat, by Julia Bartz - 4 stars!
Famous novelist Roza Vallo has invited five women to join her at Blackbriar Estate in the remote Adirondack Mountains. They are to be there a month, finish a complete novel, and the winner gets a million dollar publishing deal. Alex had just about given up on her writing, after a major blowout with her best friend, Wren. When she finds out that Wren is also coming to the retreat, she is completely nervous but determined. From the beginning, there are strange events happening at the estate, and Roza has pitted the women against each other. But when one goes missing during a snowstorm, everything changes.
I was very excited to read this book by the sister of Andrea Bartz, a favorite. Obviously writing must be genetic! There is a book in a book here and I have to say that I wasn't enthralled with those portions. I'm always one for a locked room mystery, and the creepy estate and snowstorm only added to the tension. Some of it was a bit over the top, but still a worthy debut. Anxious to read more from this author!
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