Writing Workshops Paris July 2025
Writing Workshops Paris with Ramona Ausubel, Marie-Helene Bertino, and Halimah Marcus brings together Fiction and Nonfiction writers and Poets for an intensive week of workshops, craft seminars, one-on-one conferences, and in-depth discussions on the craft and business of writing. Our program is inclusive, intentionally small, and takes place in the middle of Literary Paris, rich with history and inspiration.
Each genre workshop will have no more than 10 participants. All writers in Marie-Helene Bertino's fiction workshop and Halimah Marcus' nonfiction workshop will submit two completed pieces of writing. One submission will be workshopped by your genre-cohort and instructor and a second piece will be submitted for your one-on-one meeting with your workshop leader. Writers in Ramona Ausubel's generative workshop, which is open to all genres, will come to Paris and generate new writing throughout the city each day. Daily craft talks are open to all participants and led by program staff or faculty.
Our workshops are open to writers who want to strengthen their voice, develop a greater understanding of craft, and forge a path to publication along the way. We take your writing seriously and place the highest importance on teaching the craft of writing so that students can produce meaningful and memorable work that has the opportunity to find a readership beyond the workshop. Our mission is to bring your writing out of the wilderness and into community, and for a week every July we think there is no better place to do this than in the heart of Paris, France.
Though our admissions process is competitive and the quality of writing high, all interested writers are encouraged to apply.
July 2025 Workshop Faculty
Generative Writing Workshop (For All Genres) Instructor Ramona Ausubel's fifth book, The Last Animal, a novel, was published in April, 2023 from Riverhead Books. Her previous books are Awayland: stories, Sons and Daughters of Ease and Plenty, A Guide to Being Born and No One is Here Except All of Us. She is the recipient of the PEN/USA Fiction Award, the Cabell First Novelist Award and has been a finalists for both the California and Colorado Book Awards and the New York Public Library Young Lions Award. Her work has been published in The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Paris Review daily, One Story, Tin House, The Oxford American, Ploughshares and elsewhere. She is a professor at Colorado State University, on faculty at the Bennington Writing Seminars and has taught at Tin House, Writing by Writers, the Community of Writers, Breadloaf Environmental Conference and elsewhere. She lives in Boulder, Colorado with her family. Ramona can't wait to meet and work with you in Paris this summer (her third summer with us!)!
Fiction Workshop Instructor Marie-Helene Bertino is the author of the novels BEAUTYLAND, PARAKEET (New York Times Editors’ Choice) and 2 A.M. AT THE CAT’S PAJAMAS (NPR Best Books 2014), and the story collection SAFE AS HOUSES (Iowa Short Fiction Award). Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Electric Literature, Tin House, McSweeneys, Granta, BOMB, Guernica, and many others. Honors include The Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellowship in Cork, Ireland, The O. Henry Prize, The Pushcart Prize, fellowships from MacDowell, Hedgebrook Writers Colony, The Center For Fiction NYC, and Sewanee Writers Conference. Her work has been anthologized in Best American Short Stories, Pen/ O. Henry Prize Stories, and Mississippi Review 30, and has twice been featured on NPR’s “Selected Shorts” program. She taught for many years in the Creative Writing programs of NYU, The New School, and Institute for American Indian Arts. She is currently the Ritvo-Slifka Writer-in-Residence at Yale University. This will be Marie's third time leading our Paris workshop, and she is excited to work with you!
Nonfiction Workshop Instructor Halimah Marcus has been an editor since 2012, when she co-founded Electric Literature’s weekly fiction series, Recommended Reading. Over the last decade, she has edited hundreds of writers, including AM Homes, Weike Wang, Sheila Heti, Helen DeWitt, James Hannaham, Laura Van Berg, Jim Shepard, Charles Yu, Etgar Keret, Ben Marcus, Nathan Harris, Clare Sestanovich, Emma Eisenberg, and Catherine Lacey, as well as many other established and emerging writers. Stories she has edited have gone on to be included in Best American Short Stories, Best American Mysteries and Suspense, Best Australian Stories, the O. Henry Prize Anthology, and the Pushcart Prize Anthology. Halimah is also the editor of Horse Girls (Harper Perennial, 2021), an essay anthology that reclaims and recasts the horse girl stereotype, which was a New York Times “New and Noteworthy” pick, featuring T Kira Madden, Jane Smiley, Courtney Maum, Maggie Shipstead, and Carmen Maria Machado. Her own writing has been supported by Yaddo, and her short stories and essays have appeared in Bomb, Gulf Coast, Indiana Review, One Story, Oprah Daily, The Literary Review and elsewhere. Andrew Sean Greer selected her short story, “The Party Goers,” from the The Southampton Review as a distinguished story in Best American Short Stories 2022. Halimah has an MFA from Brooklyn College, and lives in Kingston, New York. Halimah is a publishing and craft expert eager to meet you in Paris.
Lodging at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche
Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 6 days, 5 nights at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche. The 4-star hotel sits in the heart of literary Paris, near booksellers and publishing houses, and is a short walk from the Jardin du Luxembourg. Free Wi-Fi included.
Class Size
Schedule
Tuesday
3:00PM: Hotel check-in begins.
5:00PM: Sunset meet & greet picnic in Luxembourg Gardens.
Wednesday - Saturday
Mornings: Workshops and one-on-one instructor meetings.
Afternoons/Evenings: Lunch Break & free time. Optional afternoon seminar, led by faculty or staff. Optional evening activity and dinner, led by Mike Franz.
Sunday
12:00PM: Final check-out at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche.
Optional Evening Activities
Wednesday: Latin Quarter Walking Tour & Dinner
Thursday: Evening concert at Saint Chapelle & Cohort Dinner
Friday: Night Bike Tour & Dinner in Tuileries Garden
Saturday: Reading on the Banks of the Seine River with Champagne Toast & Farewell Dinner
**Details subject to change. Final version will be sent out by May 15th, 2025.
Example July 2025 Schedule Detail
Included Optional Evening Activities
Tuition
Tuition is $3,495.00 and includes the following:
- Lodging in your own room at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche for 6 days, 5 nights
- A welcome drink and hors d’oeuvres picnic with faculty and staff
- 4-day writing workshops in small groups of no more than 10 writers, led by program faculty
- Critical feedback on writing submissions
- Daily craft of writing and/or business of writing seminars
- One-on-one conference with faculty
- A literary walking tour in the Latin Quarter (Wednesday), an evening concert at Saint Chapelle (Thursday), and a night bike tour of the city (Friday).
- Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.
2-Day Versailles & Monet's Garden Add-On, July 20-22, 2025
On Sunday, we'll take a train to Versailles. Our first stop is a vibrant open-air farmers market, where we'll pick fresh ingredients for a picnic. Afterward, we'll explore the expansive gardens of Versailles, including the iconic fountains. A picnic lunch is planned by the Grand Canal, followed by a visit to the chateau. There, we'll learn about the history of Versailles and its notable figures like Marie Antoinette. Once we return to Paris, you can choose to dine out or relax at the hotel.
Monday takes us by train to Giverny, home to Monet's Gardens. We'll have lunch at a local cafe and visit notable spots, including Monet's grave and the Église Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny. Next, we'll tour Monet's former residence, where he painted for 43 years. This includes a chance to view the famed water lily pond that inspired over 250 of his paintings.
Testimonials For Our Paris Retreats
"The workshop exceeded my expectations. The communication was excellent leading up to it, and Writing Workshops was on top of every detail. The nonfiction workshops was incredibly instructive and helpful, and I feel I learned a lot. The hotel was in a wonderful section of Paris, and the evening activities brought us closer as a group. The whole experience was life-changing (without sounding overly dramatic) and gratifying." -Ethan J.
"I am a published novelist, critic and journalist and taking a nonfiction workshop was really out of my comfort zone. I knew I'd learn something and become a better writer because of it, but I honestly didn't think I'd do anything with creative nonfiction beyond this week. Thanks to Chloe and my wonderful, encouraging cohort, I have changed my mind and am going to pursue creative nonfiction alongside my other writing endeavors. And of course, Paris is a positively dreamy place to write, walk, eat, drink and get inspired!" -Lauren W.
"Hands down the best workshop feedback I’ve ever received. I felt so lucky to be a part of this workshop and really enjoy the friendships I forged." - Ben H.
"Writing Workshops in Paris was so amazing! Getting to spend all week working on essays and then by evening exploring the city on foot or bicycle?! Iconic! Loved getting to meet fellow writers, work with established literary stars, and the reading on the Seine was the perfect farewell! Highly recommend to anyone who is looking to write and explore Paris!" -Emily V.
"Writing Workshops Paris absolutely made my summer! Both the staff and the participants were lovely, and all of the workshops, seminars, and optional activities were well-planned and well-executed.It was the perfect Parisian vacation, but with a slew of great suggestions on how to improve my writing for publication, and the added take away of what I feel will be lifelong friends and professional connections. I cannot overstate how much fun I had, and I'm returning home inspired and eager to apply all of the feedback I received to my work". - Becky R.
"Writing Workshops Paris was the ultimate vehicle for me to realize my dream of finally seeing Paris, while re-igniting my passion for writing and connecting me with such a wonderful new writing community!" -Dhana M.
"For me, as a yet-unpublished writer, it was a great introduction to the world of workshopping. I felt comfortable sharing my stories with this helpful, diverse and dedicated group. And even though I'm daunted by the amount of work I have ahead of me, I'm inspired to start combining my stories into a memoir--something I hadn't considered before." -Sue P.
"Immersion into the artistic Parisian culture with a small community of like-minded aspiring writers was nothing short of inspirational. How wonderful it was to escape the ordinary, explore the extraordinary, and revel in the craft of writing --for the sheer joy of it--in the heart of beautiful Paris." -Estee C.
"This workshop exceeded my expectations. The classroom critiques and instructor one-on-ones were extremely helpful, the people were wonderful, and the atmosphere was inviting. It was an experience I'm so glad I didn't miss." - Carissa C.
"WWP was the first workshop I attended. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on my book-in-progress from both Diana and my new writing community! Merci, merci." -Christina K.
"Writing Workshops Paris was my first professional workshop,and it won't be my last! Aside from the magic of being in Paris, which cannot be understated, the amazing people I met were the best part of the week. I left with unexpected friendships that I will have for life,and a fresh motivation to finish my novel. My approach to my writing has been invigorated and my motivation renewed, and I feel connected to this amazing community of writers in a way I never expected. What an amazing week of inspiration and history, great writing and incredible people. Thank you so much for a life-changing week!" -Kerrin S.
"Chloe, I want to thank you again for such a wonderful workshop. I really appreciated the time and skillset you brought as a facilitator and am very grateful for your feedback on my work, as well as recommended resources.." -Brenna K.
"The Paris workshop was inspirational. The setting was liberating as a writer, and leadership was always in good humor, organized and helpful. The feedback has given me a good direction for my work." -Janice H.
"An unforgettable time at the Paris Writing Workshop. Wonderful facilitators, knowledgable instructors. The information was so helpful to my writing. Plus, there was the unexpected joy of bonding with fellow writers. Blake and Mike did an outstanding job. My only complaint was it was too short!" -Leslie R.
Program Staff
Executive Director Blake Kimzey worked as a bicycle tour guide in Paris in his 20s. He is the founder of WritingWorkshops.com and has an MFA from UC Irvine. Blake sits on the Board of the Elizabeth George Foundation and his fiction has been broadcast on NPR and published by Tin House, McSweeney’s, VICE, Longform, Redivider, Short Fiction, Smokelong Quarterly, Hobart, The Los Angeles Review, The Masters Review, and The Best Small Fictions. Blake’s collection of short tales, Families Among Us, was published by Black Lawrence Press. He also co-wrote, with Kyle Minor, a dramatic WWII movie about the war-time actions of Polish underground hero Jan Karski, set for production in 2025.
Operations Director Mike Franz was General Manager and Tour Guide at Fat Tire Bike Tours, Paris, for seven years. His tours were featured on Rick Steves-Paris, The Independent-UK, and the television show 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Mike taught government, economics, and public speaking for ten years at Headwaters High School in Austin, Texas, where he won teacher-of-the-year award after his first year of teaching.
Application & General FAQ
What is the application deadline?
Applications for our July 2025 Paris Workshops are now open and will close soon. Due to volume, early applications are encouraged.
What will my application include?
- Brief bio informing us of your involvement in the writing and literary community, as well as any prior or forthcoming publications (500 words max).
- Purpose statement explaining why you would like to participate in Writing Workshops Paris. You can also discuss current manuscripts or writing projects that you might choose to workshop. (500 words max.)
- Writing sample excerpt. This does not have to be published work, though that is acceptable, nor does it have to be a piece you plan to workshop. Complete works under the word count are not required; excerpts are acceptable. (writing sample should be no more than 5000 words max.)
- Early applications are encouraged.
When will I know if I've been accepted to the workshop?
We cap our workshop participation at 10 writers in each genre cohort for the week. Our goal is to provide an intimate, rigorous workshop environment so that participants can come to Paris and find meaningful connections and excellent feedback on their work. Due to the volume of applications and competitive acceptance, writers are encouraged to apply early. We employ a reading committee of professional writers and editors, and applicants will be notified after the application window closes.
How much does it cost?
Tuition is $3,495.00. If your application is accepted, full tuition is due within 14 days. Upon acceptance, you will have the option to pay your tuition in full or opt for a payment plan by selecting Affirm at checkout.
What is your refund policy for the workshop in Paris?
Given the intimate nature of our destination workshops and our own, non-refundable deposit schedule as organizers, our refund policy is as follows:
90+ days before your trip, tuition payment minus a $900 deposit is fully refundable.
60+ days before your trip: 50% of your tuition is refundable.
30+ days before your: 25% of your tuition is refundable.
Less than 30 days before your trip: no refunds can be offered.
What does tuition include?
- Lodging in your own room at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche for 6 days, 5 nights
- A welcome drink and hors d’oeuvres picnic with faculty and staff
- 4-day writing workshops in small groups of no more than 10, led by program faculty
- Critical feedback on writing submissions
- Daily craft of writing and/or business of writing seminars
- One-on-one conference with faculty
- A literary walking tour of Paris (Wednesday), an evening concert at Saint Chapelle (Thursday), and a night bike tour of the city (Friday).
- Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.
Are Payment Plans Available?
Yes. Accepted writers will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.
Are Scholarships Available?
Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to offer scholarships for this workshop. However, we do have payment plans available.
Where is the hotel and workshop venue?
Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 6 days, 5 nights at the Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche.The 4-star hotel sits in the heart of literary Paris, near booksellers and publishing houses, and is a short walk from the Jardin du Luxembourg. Free Wi-Fi included.
What will you do with my email?
We respect your privacy. We won't sell or rent your email to other organizations.
I have a question not answered here.
Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly.
Optional Two-Day Add-On FAQ
Can I bring someone else along on the add-on trip?
Yes, the add-on is open to friends/partners of anyone attending the Writing Workshop.
If I bring a second person along on the add-on trip and we share a room, can we get a discount?
Yes, please let us know if you are interested in doing this and we can provide price and room details.
Can I bring my entire family along on the add-on trip?
Yes. Please let us know if you are interested in doing this and we can provide price and room details.
How much does the Optional 2-Day Versailles and Monet's Gardens Trip Extension Cost for the dates of July 20-22, 2025?
The cost of the 2-day add-on is an additional $1,495,which includes lodging for two nights at Hôtel Trianon Rive Gauche, aswell as transportation and entry to Versailles and Monet's Garden at Giverny.Can I attend the add-on even if I don't attend the Writing Workshop?
No, the add-on is only open to attendees of the Writing Workshop and their guests.
What will you do with my email?
We respect yourprivacy. We will only use your email to send you information aboutWriting Workshops. We won't sell or rent your email toother organizations.
I have a question not answered here.
Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly. You can also Chat with us (lower left of your screen).
Terms & Conditions
By participating in the WritingWorkshops.com July 2025 In-Person Writing Workshop in Paris for fiction and nonfiction writers, you waive all rights you may have to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with any use, exhibition, streaming, webcasting, televising, or other publication of these materials, regardless of the purpose or sponsoring of such use, exhibiting, broadcasting, webcasting, or other publication, irrespective of whether a fee for admission or sponsorship is charged. You also waive any right to inspect or approve any photo, video, or audio recording taken by WritingWorkshops.com or the person or entity designated to do so by WritingWorkshops.com. You have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability, and release before participating in the WritingWorkshops.com July 2025 In-Person Writing Workshop in Paris. By registering for this workshop, you agree to these terms.