Serenaded in Queenstown

Back in February, I received a full scholarship to attend the Serenade Writing Retreat in Queenstown, New Zealand. I was so excited that I danced around the house for the rest of the day! This is the biggest writing opportunity I have ever received. It was also my first visit to the South Island.

I feel like I had two separate experiences: the first two days of exploring, with day trips to Milford Sound and Arrowtown, and four days at the retreat in the heart of Queenstown (which also involved some exploring around town!).

I met writers from around New Zealand, Australia, and the U.S. My circle of writing comrades now spans the globe.

We learned about writing a book series, book drafting, pitching to publishers, and so much more. I made progress on my travel memoir and pitched my Irish Noir novel to Hachette Australia’s publisher for feedback. I ate good food, drank great New Zealand wine, in the company of wonderful new friends.

I am so grateful to Sarah Williams, Tim Coulsen, and Serenade Publishing for this scholarship opportunity. Thank you for hosting us, teaching us, feeding us, and encouraging us!

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