Registration is open now for the 5th Annual Walloon Lake Writer’s Retreat (April 10-13, 2025) at Hotel Walloon featuring Karen Dionne – the #1 internationally bestselling thriller author of The Marsh King’s Daughter and The Wicked Sister (both set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula).
During this immersive weekend, attendees will be introduced to the works of Ernest Hemingway and how the regional landscape around Walloon Lake inspired his storytelling. There will also be individual and group writing exercises; one-on-one guidance from published authors; group readings and critiques; insider tips on working with agents, publishers and publicists; suggestions on marketing and promoting published works; and supportive camaraderie from fellow writers.
The Walloon Writers Retreat begins Thursday evening, April 16 and continues through Sunday morning, April 19. The weekend packages start at $1200 per person (based on room type/occupancy/availability) and includes:
- Three nights’ accommodations at the award-winning Hotel Walloon (including three breakfasts)
- Pre fixe group dinner one evening at the historic Walloon Lake Inn (excluding alcohol)
- an autographed copy of Karen’s book, The Marsh King’s Daughter
- VIP viewing of the movie “The Marsh King’s Daughter” starring Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn followed by an author discussion
- writing and promotional sessions led by Karen and other published writers
- access to unique locations around the quaint Village for private writing time
- networking and collaboration with fellow budding writers
Reservations can be made by calling Hotel Walloon at (231) 535-5000.
Hotel Walloon is located in Northern Michigan and is a privately-owned AAA Four Diamond boutique property, rated the #1 Resort in Michigan by Travel + Leisure. Hotel Walloon is a luxury boutique hotel that hosts (32) unique guest rooms. The Hotel features include complimentary valet service, a private bar exclusively for Hotel guests and four complimentary food offerings during the day including; a continental breakfast, fresh snacks, and an assortment of hors d’oeuvres in the evening, followed by a dessert display. The Hotel also offers a billiards room, 24-hour fitness facility and an outdoor heated spa whirlpool. Dining opportunities are located a few steps away at the casual experience of Barrel Back Restaurant or at the fine dining establishment, the Walloon Lake Inn.
Hotel Walloon offers an Up North atmosphere with unlimited adventure. The Hotel, open year-round, provides an unparalleled level of hospitality for guests during their stay. We are centrally located between Petoskey, Charlevoix and Boyne City.
What past attendees have said about the Walloon Lake Writer’s Retreat:
- “It’s connecting with other writers that keeps bringing me back.”
- “Being able to have more confidence in my own writing and listening to the talented group of others and their writings.”
- “A great community of writers I am honored to be a part of. Everyone is so friendly, encouraging and supportive.”
- “Loved how we learned from the presenters and each other more this year.”
- “It was a good experience for me in keeping my momentum going towards writing and publishing the 3 books that are living in my heart and head.”
- “It encourages me to hear about other peoples’ writing experiences (their successes, their challenges).”
- “Hearing the work of others… being inspired by their hard work and dedication.”
- “Seeing the communal support & shared mindset of the attendees.”
