Winter 2024

Heather Lazare, founder and director of the Northern California Writers’ Retreat, is excited to welcome participants to Hidden Valley Music Seminars for this year’s retreat. S ince cofounding the Northern California Writers’ Retreat a decade ago, editori- al and publishing consultant Heather Lazare has watched more than 20 participants earn the title of author. When another recently announced her book deal on social media, members of the retreat’s alumni group were the first to celebrate. “It’s so special to me that the people who attend are really lifting each other up,” Lazare says. The 10th retreat series takes place at Carmel Valley’s Hidden Valley Music Seminars in March and April. Three sessions will wel- come 18 writers each, plus an author-in-resi- dence, two guest literary agents and an inde- pendent editor. Participants will enjoy small- group workshops, dedicated writing time, professional development discussions and an exclusive author event at Olivia & Daisy Books. Optional yoga, massage and musical experi- ences round out the schedule. By showcasing insight from successful authors, editors and agents, Lazare hopes to demystify the publishing process. In support of that mission, the retreat website now includes paid courses and free Book Journey Club webi- nars for aspiring authors who can’t make it to a retreat. “As a writer, you can write an amazing book. But if you don’t fully understand the business side, it can be a bit daunting. I’m trying to give people those tools,” Lazare says. For more information on upcoming retreats, visit www.norcalwritersretreat.com. Local Wr iters’ Retreat Marks 10 Years of Success B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S SHORT CUTS LIT 74 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 Photo: Dauphiene Parks