Blog by Jane Smillie, guest at the Micro-Memoirs Retreat, August 2025 Just back from a residential micro memoir writing course at Sheepwash, expertly tutored by Margarita Gokun Silver, I came across this letter. Good to know that literary giants have had the thumbs down before achieving success.Another reminder how hard it can be to get […]

(UPDATE: currently an ensuite in the house available for the Just Write retreat in November. See below.) AMAZING NEWSWell it’s finally happened, those of you who have been coming here know about the book I’ve been writing for what seems like forever. ‘French or Dutch’ – based on real events 100 years ago in the […]

“When Stephanie Land penned her essay “I spent 2 years cleaning big houses – what I saw makes me never want to be rich,” for Vox, she never thought it was going to net her a book deal, and later, a Netflix series. But it did! Or Lauren Hough, the author of the viral Huffington Post essay “I Was A Cable Guy. I Saw The […]

Also – Earning money through public lending libraries. But first – just one space left on no less than three of our upcoming retreats. Develop Your Novel – with the tutor who frequently sells out, a workshop for all abilities above total beginner. ONE SPACE30th June ‘25 Your Memoir – with top UK memoir mentor, Marnie […]

Full of trepidation, not knowing what to expect on a writing retreat with a tutor? Here at Retreats For You in picturesque North Devon, you will be made to feel welcome, from the moment you arrive, with your own cozy room with outstanding beds, dressing gowns and tea and coffee making facilities, and the all […]