Joshua Mohr
Writing Retreat

October 5-11, 2025
Arcachon, France
Joshua’s retreat is open to writers of all genres and levels.
The best plots aren’t controlled by the author. They spring from the characters themselves. The writer masterminds all things, yes, but the more we as authors realize that our characters are sovereign beings (even in memoir), the better prepared we are to traverse what Joshua Mohr calls “plaracterization.” In this intensive workshop, we will ponder characters’ decision-making, the causality between plot points, and how to keep a reader flipping pages. We’ll delve into specific tactics for constructing present action and folding in backstory. During the session, students will have the opportunity to write and share their work with others.

About Joshua
Joshua Mohr is the author of several books, including Damascus, which The New York Times called “Beat-poet cool.” He’s also written Some Things that Meant the World to Me, one of O Magazine’s 10 Terrific reads of 2009, and he’s won the Northern California Book Award twice. Termite Parade was an editors’ choice on the New York Times Best Seller List. His latest project is a trilogy of novels all to be published in one calendar year, starting with SAINT THE TERRIFYING. In his Hollywood life, he’s sold projects to AMC, ITV, and Amblin Entertainment.
Throughout the day, you can always find a sweet spot to write on your own.
Mornings will be spent workshopping in this beautiful villa on the Arcachon Bay.
A traditional French apéro-dînatoire will welcome you and your fellow writers. Delicious French meals will be prepared for you daily to infuse you in the joie de vivre of the region. And for a change a pace, the group will dine out together a few times during the week.


There will be plenty of time to take a dip in the jacuzzi, relax by the water, and explore the village of Arcachon just minutes away on foot.
We’ll also take a private boat tour of Le Bassin d’Arcachon.
Accommodations
Inside the villa, you’ll be enveloped in a warm and inviting space.
There are 8 bedrooms, each with a private full bathroom and its own unique characteristics.
Amenities include toiletries, blow dryer, washer & dryer and detergent.


Joshua's Retreat Includes:
- 15 hours of workshop
- 1-hour private critique session
- 6 nights in an ensuite private room
- Freshly prepared French meals
- Scheduled dining out
- Transport to and from the villa
- Local boat tour
- Concierge services
- Alcohol is not included
This retreat is designed for 8 people. Seats will go fast.
“What a lovely experience from start to finish. Everything was so well done for us with such consideration for each of us.
The view from my room was spectacular!”
– Mercilee Jenkins