Going the Distance: From Chapter One to “The End”
If you’ve ever started a novel with fireworks of inspiration only to watch it stall somewhere in the murky middle, you’re in good company. As the workshop description cleverly notes: “It is a truth universally acknowledged that starting a novel seems easy enough but finishing a novel is hard as hell.”
Rosemont College Writer’s Studio is offering a rare opportunity to tackle that very challenge head-on. From July 12–17, 2026, novelist and short story writer Charles Holdefer will lead a weeklong immersive retreat dedicated to helping writers of all levels and genres move from “Chapter One” all the way to “The End.”
What You’ll Work On
This isn’t just another writing retreat filled with vague encouragement. “Going the Distance” is a practical, craft-focused workshop designed to confront the real obstacles that keep novels unfinished. Participants will explore:
- Finding the right shape and structure for your story
- Treating plot and character as interdependent forces that fuel each other
- Avoiding common pitfalls when writing about family, morality, faith, or sex
- Mastering dialogue and the representation of internal thought
- Building successful prose through close attention to detail
Each day will blend guided writing exercises and prompts to generate new material, group feedback sessions, and workshopping of pages you bring from home. Charles will also provide readings from established authors to illustrate key techniques in action. By the end of the week, you’ll leave with fresh pages, practical revisions to your existing work, and a much clearer sense of how to finish your novel.
Who Should Attend?
Writers at any stage—beginners with a strong idea, writers stuck in the middle, or those polishing a near-complete draft—are welcome. The retreat welcomes all genres.
Submission Requirement: To participate, send 2,500–5,000 words of your novel (including a one-page synopsis). Deadline is July 1, 2026.
Meet Your Instructor: Charles Holdefer
Charles Holdefer is an accomplished American writer based in Brussels, Belgium. He is the author of six novels and four collections of short stories. His fiction has appeared in prestigious outlets including New England Review, Chicago Quarterly Review, North American Review, Los Angeles Review Brooklyn Review. His story “The Raptor” won a Pushcart Prize. In addition to fiction, Holdefer writes insightful essays and reviews that have been published in The Antioch Review, World Literature Today, New England Review, The Collagist, New York Journal of Books, and many others. His international perspective and deep experience across both short and long-form fiction make him an ideal guide for writers serious about finishing their books.
Why Attend a Weeklong Retreat?
A full week away from daily distractions creates the kind of focused momentum that’s hard to find elsewhere. You’ll write, revise, discuss, and connect with fellow novelists in a supportive yet rigorous environment at Rosemont College. Many writers leave these programs not only with new material and sharpened skills, but with renewed confidence and a clearer path to publication or completion. Spots are limited and available only until, or until July 8, 2026. If you’ve been saying “one day I’ll finish my novel,” this could be the week that turns that dream into reality. Ready to go the distance? Visit the Rosemont College Writer’s Studio website for full details, costs, and registration information. Your novel deserves an ending. This July, give it one.
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The Rosemont Experience
At Rosemont, we believe that no matter what discipline you study, effective communication and problem solving are cornerstones to success. That’s why students take classes across multiple disciplines—to learn to approach complex situations from multiple angles. We also recognize the importance of real world experience in preparing you for a career. In fact, every student engages in at least one internship, volunteer effort, or service learning opportunity.
In the Heart of Suburban Philadelphia's Iconic Main Line
- Beautiful 58 acre Main Line campus located in serene suburban Philadelphia.
- Current students have access to world class advanced degree programs through exclusive partnerships.
- Rooted in Catholicism we welcome all faiths and beliefs.
- Coveted 11:1 student to faculty ratio providing an unparalleled educational experience.
- An average class size of 13 ensures a high caliber, personalized education.
