This a book about 5 woman who are given an opportunity to go on a writer’s retreat with a famous author. While they are writing their books, it becomes clear that nothing is what it seems. Alex is the protagonist and we follow her through as she solves a mystery and finds herself.

I was in the mood to be pulled into a thriller for the evening — and The Writing Retreat delivered. Julia Bartz did a great job of layering oddities and suspense, which held my attention the entire time. While there was no shocking twist for me, the way the plot unfolded was really gripping. However, it felt like the lead-up to arriving at the house was really drawn out. I think the entire first part ("The City") could have been removed, and this book would have been just as effective.