The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz

Location: New York Type: Physical Book

Timeline: Non-linear (flashbacks) Genre: Thriller

Narration: 1st person

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Review:

Stars: 3

This novel was an exciting read. I am left not sure if I want to go to a retreat or stay away from them forever. The twists, suspense and thriller aspects were great! I could do without all of the sex and language. I felt it took away from how good the story was.

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Sex:

• mentions sex many times in detail

• masturbation

• same sex relations

• graphic oral sex

Language:

• Fuck: 70

• Bitch: 8

• Shit: 37

• Ass: 5

• GD: 4

• Cunt: 3

Triggers:

• LGBTQ+ themes

• Weed use

• Child abuse

• Suicide

• Online bullying

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Questions:

Do you think Alex is too obsessed with Roza Vallo?

Where does she first cross a line to over-the-top?

Would you read a Roza Vallo novel?

Why or why not?

Why do you think Alex is so obsessed with Wren?

Do you agree that friend breakups are worse than romantic breakups?

Why or why not?

In chapter 14 Alex is talking to Taylor about the fight she just had with Wren. Taylor had this to say about Wren:

"Don't let her get in your head, okay? I know people like that. They make you think they're great as long as they need you. And as soon as they don't - like when Wren met this guy- then they drop you."

Do you know someone like that? or have you experienced something similar?

Have you ever been the Wren in the situation?

In one of Alex's one-on-one sessions with Roza the subject of physical abuse vs emotional neglect was discussed.

Which is worse?

What are your thoughts and why?

In chapters 18 and 19 there is an eerie instance where Poppy sleepwalks.

Have you ever had a scary instance with sleepwalking (either as you doing the sleepwalking or you being the by-stander like Alex)?

When Roza put LSD in the punch some guests embraced it, some fought against it, and some decided to stay neutral.

Where would you have stood?

Was it right for Roza to put LSD in the punch without telling anyone?

In chapter 21, everyone is back from the LSD trip but Poppy was missing.

What did you think happened to her?

Did you suspect Taylor at all?

If so, When?

Who else did you suspect?

Why do you think Yana helped them escape?