Welcome to Foreword Retreats

Immerse yourself in France’s joie de vivre with your favorite bestselling authors & literary professionals.
Our writing retreats combine exceptionally talented instructors and intimate week-long retreats
with authentic regional cuisine & activities in the most beautiful French locales. 
À bientôt!

Meet Your Foreword Team


Carol Johnson

Carol operates at the nexus of authors, venues, and logistics. She brings organization and attention-to-detail, as well as a certain “je ne sais quoi” to create inviting, inspiring, and rejuvenating retreats.


Lisa Trail

Lisa spent years in France, has traveled the world, and now
calls Germany home.
With Lisa, no detail goes unchecked, she’ll ensure your retreat is a rich and memorable experience.


Petra Liebert

Petra brings a global perspective from her experience as a flight attendant and background in hospitality. She’s dedicated to caring for our guests and creating a warm and welcoming environment.


Sarah Wright

SOCIAL MEDIA COLLABORATOR  

Based in Hawaiʻi and inspired by her travels, Sarah brings a writer’s eye and global perspective to Foreword Retreats’ social media storytelling.


Lorissa Shepstone

WEB DESIGNER

Lorissa is our wicked web designer. She hails from South Africa and now calls North Carolina home. When she’s not behind her computer, you’ll find her immersed in a book.

“This retreat was a life changer!”

–  AlI CROOK