Manuscript Momentum: A 5-day Retreat in Italy to Fast-Track Your Publishing Journey
A Masterclass in Publishing led by Literary Agent and Author Lucinda Halpern
If you’ve carried a love for books your whole life and felt the pull to write your own, this retreat in Florence, Italy is your chance to finally make that dream come true.
Set in Florence's most beloved neighborhood and led by seasoned literary agent Lucinda Halpern, this immersive experience supports aspiring authors in bringing their stories to life.
With over 15 years of industry experience, Lucinda has secured Big Five publishing deals and helped launch bestsellers across fiction, memoir, nonfiction, and business.
More than an agent, Lucinda is a dedicated champion of emerging voices. Her workshops and coaching sessions demystify the publishing world, offering practical insights into platform-building, online marketing, media strategy, and speaking opportunities.
With Lucinda at your side, this retreat offers the perfect balance of expert guidance, creative inspiration, and unforgettable surroundings for writers ready to begin—or finally finish—their book.
This is for narrative non-fiction writers, memoirists, literary fiction and self-help writers at any stage of writing a book proposal or manuscript.
March 16-21, 2026 | Florence, Italy
Lucinda Halpern
Lucinda Halpern is a literary agent and the founder of Lucinda Literary, a boutique agency based in New York. She has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, and currently represents New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of business, personal growth, popular science, narrative nonfiction, memoir, and upmarket fiction.
Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for her new book Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House; February 6th, 2024).
“All aspiring authors know the value of a great literary agent, but few know how to get one. Lucinda Halpern has written the definitive guide to attracting an agent and laying the groundwork for a book well worth publishing.”— Adam Grant, #1 New York Times best-selling author
Focused Mentorship Meets Creative Immersion.
You’ll have Lucinda's complete attention and guidance available during writing classes together each day. With tough love, sharp editorial feedback, and actionable strategy, she'll help you develop your book package—and how you present it—with clarity and confidence.
And because we’ll be in Florence, you’ll also have the time and gorgeous landscape to fuel your creativity. Between guided sessions, you’ll enjoy immersive experiences (think: private tours, artisan encounters, and unforgettable meals) that will get you out of your head and tapped into your inspiration.
Let’s do this together…in Italy!
What's all included?
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Daily classes with Lucinda! — Join Lucinda for daily immersive classes, where her expert guidance will inspire and build confidence.
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Skip-the-line museum admission — Experience Florence’s legendary art at your own pace. Vita Bella Retreats provides admission tickets to the museum of your choice for each guest.
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Three Fabulous dinners out — Fabulous dining experiences at some of Florence's finest restaurants, where each meal is a celebration of Italian flavors and craftsmanship.
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Customized wine tastings — Enjoy curated wine experiences that highlight the depth and richness of Tuscan vineyards.
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Guided walking tour of Florence — Explore the heart of Florence on a guided walking tour, where you'll uncover the city's rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems with an expert local guide.
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Private cooking class — Learn the art of authentic Italian cooking in a private class where you'll master traditional recipes and techniques from expert chefs in an intimate, hands-on setting.
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Access to spa hotel for sauna, massage, relaxation — Unwind and rejuvenate with exclusive access to a luxurious spa hotel, offering soothing sauna sessions, indulgent massages, and a tranquil space for complete relaxation.
“Lucinda Halpern and her book are the map and the compass for any beginning writer looking for away to find their perfect agent. There is no question in my mind that it will forever be the only bookanyone trying to break into publishing will ever need. If only I had it when I was starting out!Wherever Lucinda leads, I will follow.”— Sam Wasson, New York Times best-selling author
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Live pitch coaching in a supportive group setting
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Expert insights tailored to new authors
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Guidance for choosing between multiple book ideas or genres
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Guidance for choosing the right literary agent and publishing path for your work
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Exclusive resources and a strategic plan to continue your progress post-retreat
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Daily time to write independently (and together) in a beautiful setting
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Cultural experiences in beautiful Florence, ranging from museums, dining, and more
San Firenze Suites & Spa is our home base for the week—a four-star boutique hotel tucked into the heart of Florence, just steps from the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, and the Bargello Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century building, the hotel offers a rare blend of history and contemporary comfort.
With only 19 suites, it promises an intimate, elegant experience with personalized service and thoughtful amenities, including free breakfast and access to a nearby gym.
Traveling to Florence feels like stepping into an open-air museum. The city is alive with history, art, and a sense of timelessness. Cobblestone streets wind through ancient buildings, and the sound of church bells fills the air. The Arno River divides the city, with the historic center on one side and the quieter, more residential Oltrarno district on the other.
Florence is a walker’s paradise, and much of its charm lies in wandering its narrow streets, discovering hidden piazzas, and enjoying a gelato in the shadow of a Renaissance masterpiece.
Come enjoy 5 nights in bella Firenze!
Please note:
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Airfare is not included.
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If you would like to extend your stay, please contact the hotel directly.
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This retreat is for individuals only. Due to the limited space, we cannot allow 'plus ones'.
