Allison K Williams is the author of Seven Drafts: Self-Edit Like a Pro From Blank Page to Book. She has edited and coached writers to publishing deals with Penguin Random House, Knopf, Mantle, Spencer Hill, and St. Martin’s Press as well as hybrid and independent presses, and her clients have appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists. Her own work has appeared in Creative Nonfiction, McSweeney’s, and on NPR and CBC-Canada.
Allison holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Western Michigan University and spent 20 years as a circus aerialist and acrobat before writing and editing full-time.
Tiffany Yates Martin has spent her entire career as an editor in the publishing industry, working with major publishers and New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning authors as well as indie and newer writers.
She is the founder of FoxPrint Editorial (named one of Writer’s Digest’s Best Websites for Authors) and author of Intuitive Editing: A Creative and Practical Guide to Revising Your Writing and her latest, The Intuitive Author: How to Grow & Sustain a Happier Writing Career. She is a regular contributor to writers’ outlets like Writer’s Digest, Jane Friedman, and Writer Unboxed, and a frequent presenter and keynote speaker for writers’ organizations around the world. Under her pen name, Phoebe Fox, she is the author of six novels.
It is no exaggeration to say that my writing retreat with Allison Williams was life changing. I arrived with a memoir manuscript and a work plan created with Allison so I was able to dig in right away. Days were spent in community with other writers, working, eating, chatting and relaxing surrounded by gorgeous views. And as a result of my manuscript revision, an agent who had given me a “Revise and Resubmit” with my earlier query offered to represent me! — Karen Fine, The Other Family Doctor (Penguin Random House, NYT Bestseller)
Really top notch, all the way around. Loved the practical examples, loved the analysis and I loved Tiffany’s genuine passion. She’s consistently terrific - so much relevant information that’s presented in a very engaging way. THANK YOU! — Niki Mathias
I SO ENJOYED my week at Clos Mirabel. THANK YOU for sharing your wisdom and enthusiasm. When people ask me about the retreat, I tell them that you are both rock stars! I also tell them that I felt privileged to among a group of talented and dedicated writers. I learned so much in one short week. — Terri Neil, retreat participant Clos Mirabel 2025
This week has been an incredible discovery and rediscovery of myself, my writing, and my reason for doing it! — Maria Olujic, retreat participant 2024
Amazing retreat leaders. Their ability to fine-tune good writing to transform it into an excellent, engaging, suspenseful read is phenomenal. I came away with aching sides from laughing so much with new friends and deepened wisdom on story flow and theme. Our group was an eclectic mix of emerging writers and published authors, across memoir, fantasy, academic, historical and more. — Dr. Heidi Kharbhih, retreat participant 2022
What a terrific presentation! Couldn’t ask for better content - clear and concise - or better delivery. Tiffany has a very engaging, inspiring style. Love the handouts that she shared. Invaluable tools for my tool chest. — Pamela W
First-class accommodation and fine dining at a beautiful manor set on a 15 acre estate with a Jurançon vineyard rolling from the property toward the foothills of the Pyrénées mountains. Fresh air, bucolic surroundings, and fresh, local food and wine offerings inspiring creativity and personal restoration. —Deborah Garcia
From the moment I contacted Clos Mirabel I knew I was in caring, attentive hands, and upon arrival it was no different. The view and grounds immerse you in beauty and needed rest, the exquisitely prepared and presented food nourishes body and spirit, and the kindness of every employee touches your heart. You won't be disappointed. — Charlotte Wilkins, US
I had high expectations for this week at Clos Mirabel and you way exceeded them. — Joy Overstreet US
Clos Mirabel is a perfect respite from busy life. Fresh air, incredible view of the Pyrenees mountains, beautiful gardens, healthful dining offerings, and friendly staff invite relaxation creativity. — Deborah Garcia, Vermont USA
I can't even imagine a more accommodating staff! Thank you! —
