From Manuscript to Publication in Venice
Welcome Join us in Venice and learn the tricks of the trade from those who work in the industry. In March 2027 we are inviting industry professionals to host 3 workshops that demistify the process of moving your manuscript from your desk drawer to publication. This is a great opportunity to gain insight into the industry and make some benifical contacts. You’ll leave us with A Polished Submission Package and ‘The Know How’ of what to do next. Your tutors a Publisher, a Literary Agent, An Editor and a Published Writer. These retreats/workshops support writers in making the transition from manuscript to publication with clarity and confidence. It’s time to turn your work into a polished, submission ready package.
What You’ll GainThis retreat is for you if you want to…
Craft a submission pack
Work on your query letter, synopsis, and opening pages with expert feedback — and leave with a submission pack ready to send.
Approach agents and publishers
Understand the landscape: how to research and target the right agents, what to send, when to send it, and how to handle the waiting.
Prepare your work for submission
Learn what agents and publishers look for — how to assess your manuscript’s readiness, polish your opening pages, and present your work at its best.
Course OverviewThe Workshops
Three days to assemble your submission pack.
Manuscript Assessments
Who to approach, and what to expect — an honest reading of where your work stands and where it belongs.
The Agent–Editor Submission Process
The full path demystified, from first query to signed contract, with the etiquette each step expects.
Finding Your Fit in the Publishing World
How publishing works today — traditional vs. independent, what agents do, how to find the right fit for your work. Imprints, independents, and the houses in between — and how to recognise the one your work is really for.
Which Agents Best Suit Your Style and Story
A targeted shortlist, built around your manuscript, so your first approaches are the right ones.
A Compelling Query Letter & Synopsis
Drafted with your mentor's feedback — how to distill your novel into a query letter that intrigues and a synopsis that serves the story.the two pages that must earn the read before a single chapter is opened.
Handling Feedback & Rejection
How to read editorial feedback, when to revise, and how to keep going through the inevitable rejections on the path to yes.
what you get…
Writing on this retreat is balanced with experiences that inspire and connect you to the culture of Italy
9 hours tuition over 3 days with Industry professionals. A Literary Agent, A Publisher, An Editor and a Writer
1 hour private consultation to be booked in advance
4 star accommodation at The Hotel Monaco which includes breakfast/ or feel free to book your own accommodation and come along for the workshops and shared lunches.
Enjoy shared Lunches in a variety of Venetian Restaurants, one of which will be the famous Harry’s Bar right next door to The Hotel Monaco, we get to enjoy the food, the wine and of course of the company included in fees.
Accommodation
The workshops will be held at the Hotel Monaco on The Grand Canal. Accommodation is available at the hotel, follow the link below , OR you are welcome to find your own place to stay but still join us for the Workshops and Lunch and which have been included in the fee.
The Hotel Monaco is right next door to a very famous bar, frequented by some of the literary greats … Harry’s Bar. A defnite destination for Lunch.
Your Day at a Glance…
Workshop Leaders
Your Mentors
Your Mentors and Workshop Leaders for The Manuscript to Publication Retreat & Workshops will be announced as the programme takes shape. Expect agents, editors, writers with deep experience of the publishing landscape and a genuine commitment to new voices.
Join us in Venice
Cost and Booking