I recently signed with Hesperides Literary, in part thanks to pitching Jenn and Connor at a Virtual Writing Away Refuge event. Writing Away Refuge not only educates writers with informative seminars (I’ve even been known to be a guest lecturer) but it connects writers with agents through in-person and virtual pitch events. I chatted with the founder, Lee Ann Ward, about Writing Away Refuge and how it uniquely supports writers.
What is the Writing Away Refuge?
I know what it's like to be where you are...the first book, the first sale, the first of many successes happened for me, but only after years of hard work and the right contacts within the industry. Establishing yourself as a writer and gaining the respect of the industry professionals you need to know are difficult at best... Finding the time in your life to ensure that this happens for you is even more difficult.
This is where I come in.
Nourishing careers in the arts is what I do best. I invite you to come aboard to experience not only a boost in your career but also your spirit. While at Writing Away Refuge, you'll be taken care of in every way. I can promise that this will be an experience you will never forget. Take this year to make the investment in your mind, body, career and spirit.
At Writing Away Refuge, we give writers all the tools they need to be traditionally published. We host 8 virtual pitch retreats a year over Zoom at a very affordable price. You’ll enjoy workshops and have the opportunity to pitch up to 7 literary agents one-on-one. We host one live retreat in Gulf Shores, Alabama in October, where writers stay in the same beach house with agents, all meals are provided, and you get the opportunity to go well beyond the 5-minute pitch. Writing is a personal journey, why does selling our work have to be so impersonal? Not at Writing Away Refuge. We also offer pitch/query letter assistance, a yearly first chapter contest, and writing classes that will take your book from good to unputdownable!
Why do you find face-to-face interactions with agents more valuable than email queries?
I have had 5 agents in my long 38-year career as a writer, and I acquired each of them through live pitching. It’s the personal touch that makes all the difference.
Not only do you run the Writing Away Refuge, but you are also a USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author. Can you tell us a bit about your journey as a writer?
My journey began with a Royal Signet 40 typewriter at sweet 16 and believing that I could create words that would one day impact the world. I was fortunate enough to have my first book published when I was 20, and my career has definitely seen all the ups and downs of publishing along the way. Writing has always been my preferred form of communication—the vice that has afforded me the opportunity to be my true authentic self.
What inspired you to create the Writing Away Refuge?
Writing Away Refuge is my “pay-it-forward” passion project. I started this organization in memory of my dear friend, Cicily Janus, who hosted some writing retreats herself. Cicily was an amazing writer and a co-agent and understood the needs of new writers better than anyone. When we lost her to cancer in 2016, I made a promise to keep her legacy alive. And Writing Away Refuge was born. I give new writers the care and support I wished I’d had along the way.
What tips do you have for creating the perfect pitch?
Open your pitch with a couple of hook sentences that will grab the agents’ attention immediately. Draw them into your story. Always remember that a pitch is not a retelling of your story. The pitch consists of teasers that will make the agent want to read more. Having them request sample pages or a full manuscript is the goal.
What advice would you give to writers nervous about pitching their manuscripts? Remember that our agents are there for you. They want to hear your pitches, and they want you to do well. They’re rooting for you. Think of it as a chat with your friends about your story. Make it fun!
When is the next Writing Away Refuge and where can writers get more info on it?
Our next virtual Zoom pitch retreat is January 4-5th, 2025. All of the information and the registration buttons are here:
What are the best ways to follow you?
The best ways to follow us are on Facebook. Our group page on Facebook is: Writing Away Refuge.
We also host the free Facebook Group “Pitch Literary Agents Over Zoom.” We host pop-up practice pitch parties and giveaways. And we also announce our upcoming Zoom Pitch Retreats in this group first.
Have a look and see what Writing Away Refuge is all about! You’ve found your tribe.