Workshops & Retreats…Misque

This is a new column for 3 Questions…and Answers, which will briefly profile different writers workshops, retreats, seminars and conferences. Inclusion in this column is not an endorsement.

What is Misque?

Misque (pronounced "misk") is a brand new exclusive writer's retreat for novelists. You must apply to participate in this retreat, providing a sample of your work. The retreat is limited to 20 writers so that the sessions will be very small, no more than 5 to an instructor. The dates are August 11-15. The location will be announced but the staff is looking at resort/spa in Hawaii.

Who are the instructors?

Currently, two instructors have been announced: Robin D. Owens and Jennifer Ashley. Robin writes futuristic/fantasy romance, and has won dozens of awards, among them Writer of the Year by the Denver Area Science Fiction Association and the RITA for best paranormal romance. You can read more about Robin on her website.

Jennifer is also a romance writer in many different subgenres. She too has won several awards, including a RITA for best novel with romantic elements. Jennifer writes under two pseudonyms: Ashley Gardner and Allyson James. Her website is here.


How much is a 5-day retreat in Hawaii going to cost you?

In a nutshell: $6,370. " It's expensive, but no more so than a cruise," says Misque Coordinator Christine Hickerson. This includes all your lodging and food as well as your five days with the instructors. Your lodging isn't the Holiday Inn, but a beach-front resort where you'll receive two meals a day.

Because the retreat is limited to 20 people, you will receive in-depth, one-on-one time with your instructor. Your manuscript will be thoroughly critiqued before you arrive. A deep critique, according to the website, "goes beyond copy editing to discuss character, plot and theme; it normally costs $0.08 a word (or $8000 for a 100,000 word mss)."

You can receive a discount if you opt to share your room with a friend who is attending the retreat. The website says they offer a money back guarantee on all "non-consumable portions", meaning that you can get back what is not paid the hotel/resort if you are not satisfied.

The Details:

Apply by March 30, 2008. Submit only fiction novels of any genre. Cost is $6370. Retreat dates are August 11-15. See the website for more details.