Reading, Writing, & Rest Retreat
A Cozy Creative Weekend
September 25-28, 2026 | Biddeford, Maine
Immerse Yourself in Stories, Free From Distractions
What if you could travel to a sacred space where you’re free to read as much as you wish, connect with like-minded creatives, and work on your writing project while immersed in the magick of the woods and the ocean?
This retreat is designed just for you—a passionate reader and creator ready to turn your dreams into pages, in a setting infused with creativity, magick, and community.
Join us for a cozy, relaxing weekend where stories are at the forefront and your creativity flows with the rhythms of the tides.
What You’ll Experience
At the Reading, Writing, & Rest Retreat, you’ll have the time, space, and guidance to move past resistance, focus on your imagination, and craft something extraordinary. You’ll leave feeling recharged, with new creative momentum.
- Reading & Writing: Dive deep into the world of the imagination, whether you’re reading, writing, or both – away from the distractions of daily life.
- Full Moon Energy: Infuse your creative dreams with lunar energy during a powerful ritual under the full moon.
- Community: Be welcomed into a small group of fellow bookwyrms and writers who share your passion for storytelling. Dive deep into conversations about writing, life, and books.
- 1:1 Coaching: Get personalized support from your retreat leader (and lifelong bookwyrm), Nikki Starcat Shields, a seasoned author and writing coach.
Daily Retreat Flow
Your weekend will be a blend of relaxed reading, creative writing, and community connection. Here’s a taste of what to expect:
Friday
- Arrival & Dinner: Settle into the gorgeous and welcoming retreat home, meet your fellow readers and writers, and share a nourishing meal.
- Opening Circle: We’ll begin by connecting and sharing about the books and stories we’ll be focused on for the weekend. You’ll have the opportunity to craft a loose plan for your reading and writing sessions and set an intention for your time away.
Saturday & Sunday
- Morning: After a delicious breakfast, dive into a good book or a focused writing session.
- Midday: A shared lunch with plenty of time for book talk.
- Afternoon: Dedicated personal reading and/or writing time with optional 1:1 coaching. Take a break for a beach walk, sip some tea, or just let the words flow.
- Evening: Relax and unwind with your new friends over dinner. On Saturday night, we’ll hold a Full Moon ceremony to supercharge your creative intentions.
Monday
- Breakfast & Closing Circle: Gather with the group one last time, share insights, and take home a book or two from the swap table. You’ll leave with a plan to carry your creative energy forward into your everyday life.
What’s Included
- Three nights’ lodging in a beautiful home in the woods of Biddeford Pool, Maine, one mile from the beach.
- All meals, lovingly crafted by our Empathic Chef, including local, seasonal ingredients.
- Personal writing coaching from your Faerie Goddessmother, Nikki Starcat Shields, to help you overcome blockages and write with ease.
- Sacred rituals, including a Full Moon ceremony to infuse your creative projects with magickal energy.
- A charged crystal to take home as a creative reminder.
- Endless tea, coffee, and snacks to keep your inspiration flowing.
Meet Your Retreat Leader: Nikki Starcat Shields
I’m Nikki Starcat Shields, your guide for this cozy, story-filled weekend. As an author, book midwife, lifelong bookwyrm, and licensed Pagan priestess, my mission is to support you in crafting your heartfelt books with joy and ease. With six non-fiction books under my belt and a contemporary fantasy series in progress, I know what it takes to turn creative ideas into finished manuscripts.
As a Reflector in Human Design and a lifelong writer and mystic, my superpower is creating sacred containers where creatives can reconnect with their imagination. I’ve helped dozens of writers move past resistance and self-doubt to become Thriving Artists. I can’t wait to support you in finding your creative groove and writing the book of your dreams.
Join Us: A Sacred, Intimate Gathering
This retreat is limited to just 8 participants to ensure a cozy, supportive environment. You’ll have plenty of one-on-one support, plus the inspiration that comes from being in a group of passionate, like-minded creators. This weekend will be like a lovely spa treatment for your creativity!
Pricing & Payment Plans
- Total Investment, paid in full: $1499.
- Payment Plans: Payment plans are available; see our secure checkout page for details.
Are You Ready?
If you’re ready to immerse yourself in writing, stories, and community by the ocean, this retreat is for you! Whether you’re just beginning your book or deep into your manuscript, you’ll leave with renewed focus, clarity, and creative energy.
Spots are limited, and this retreat fills up fast! Don’t miss your chance to join us for this unforgettable experience.
Claim your spot now and step into your creative power.
FAQ
Do I have to write, or can I just come to read and rest?
You are welcome to come and read for the entire weekend! If you wish to dip your toe in by writing in a journal, a handout with prompts is available.
If I am writing, do I need to have started my book already?
Not at all! Whether you’re at the brainstorming stage or halfway through your draft, this retreat will help you move forward.
Is there free time?
Yes! While we have a flexible structure to support your reading and writing, there’s also plenty of time to walk on the beach, chat with fellow writers, and recharge.
What should I bring?
Your writing tools (laptop or notebook), books to read, an open heart, and a willingness to dive into your creative journey. Oh, and warm clothes, because it can be cold on those autumn beach walks! If the weather is warm, bring your swimsuit for a dip in the pool.
I have further questions about whether this retreat is right for me. Can we talk?
You bet! Click here to book a 15-minute retreat call with Nikki on Zoom.
What Are Nikki’s Retreats Like?
Here’s what past attendees are saying about my in-person retreats. Click on the photo to watch the short video.
