The Writer’s Weekend Retreat Lineup & Schedule

Jeff Belanger

We are excited to welcome Jeff Belanger, an acclaimed author, storyteller, and paranormal researcher, to our event.

Jeff is the author of more than a dozen books published in multiple languages and is the Emmy-nominated host, writer, and producer of the New England Legends series on PBS and Amazon Prime. He is also a longtime writer and researcher for the television series Ghost Adventures and a widely recognized speaker who has spent decades exploring folklore, history, and the unexplained.

With a background in journalism and a passion for uncovering real stories, Jeff brings a thoughtful and engaging approach to both research and writing.

Friday Session: Just the Facts: Getting the Research Right
Strong writing starts with strong research. In this session, Jeff will share techniques for gathering accurate information, verifying sources, and weaving research seamlessly into your work to create compelling and credible stories.

Saturday Session: Surviving Writer’s Block
Every writer faces creative roadblocks. Jeff will explore practical strategies to overcome writer’s block, stay motivated, and keep your projects moving forward—even when inspiration feels out of reach.

Whether you are crafting fiction or nonfiction, Jeff’s sessions offer valuable insight into the writing process and the tools needed to bring your ideas to life.

Varla Ventura

We are delighted to welcome Varla A. Ventura, an acclaimed author known for her work in folklore, mythology, and the supernatural, to our event.

Varla is the author of numerous books exploring fairy tales, legends, and the darker side of storytelling. With a passion for the strange and unusual, she brings a creative and imaginative approach to both writing and teaching, inspiring writers to tap into their unique voice and ideas.

Friday Session: Prompts to Make Your Story Come Alive
Join Varla for a dynamic, generative workshop designed to spark creativity and keep your words flowing. Using prompts that include questions, single words, phrases, and images, this fast-paced session will help revive your writing and push past creative blocks. Think of it as speed dating for writers! Participants are encouraged to bring a notebook or laptop and be ready to write.

Saturday Workshop: Clean Cup, Move Down! A Wonderland-Inspired Writing Workshop
Step into a whimsical, collaborative writing experience inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Participants will begin a story using unique prompts, then rotate seats at the sound of a bell—continuing each other’s work as they go. By the end, you’ll return to your original piece, complete the story, and share it aloud in a fun and engaging group setting.

Whether you’re looking to reignite your creativity or try something entirely new, Varla’s sessions offer an imaginative and interactive experience for writers of all levels.

Richard Estep

We are excited to welcome Richard Estep, an accomplished author, paranormal investigator, and television personality, to our event.

Richard is the author of more than 40 books spanning paranormal nonfiction, true crime, and history.  His book *The Horrors of Fox Hollow Farm* was a basis for the Hulu docuseries *The Fox Hollow Murders.* Richard is widely recognized for his appearances on television programs including Haunted Hospitals, Paranormal 911, and Haunted Case Files, and is a frequent speaker at events across the country.

With decades of experience investigating the unexplained and writing about his findings, Richard brings a unique perspective to both storytelling and the craft of writing.

Friday Session: Getting from “Word One” to “The End”
Richard will guide writers through the process of starting, developing, and completing a manuscript—offering practical insights to help you move from idea to finished work.

Saturday Session: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing
Explore the key differences between traditional and self-publishing, including the benefits, challenges, and considerations of each path, to help you determine the best route for your work.

Whether you are just beginning your writing journey or deciding how to publish your manuscript, these sessions offer valuable tools and insider knowledge to help you take the next step.

Kat Neff

We are pleased to welcome Kat Neff, Senior Publicist at Llewellyn Worldwide, to our event.

With more than 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, Kat has built a career spanning sales, marketing, and publicity. She has served on educational panels, contributed to industry programming, and held leadership roles within organizations such as the Minnesota Book Publishing Roundtable, bringing a wealth of knowledge in book promotion and media relations.

Kat offers a practical, insider perspective on how authors can successfully position themselves and their work in today’s competitive publishing landscape.

Friday Session: Marketing Your Books
Learn effective strategies for promoting your work, building your author platform, and connecting with your audience. Kat will share real-world insights into what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to book marketing.

Saturday Session: Connecting with Media
Discover how to build relationships with media professionals, secure coverage, and present yourself and your book in a compelling way. This session will provide valuable guidance on navigating publicity opportunities and increasing your visibility as an author.

Whether you are preparing to launch your first book or looking to expand your reach, Kat’s sessions offer essential tools to help you share your work with a wider audience.