
one retreat to
rule them all
ancient lore village
knoxville, tennessee
april 10-12, 2026
Picture this.
You arrive at an enchanting little village, one that feels like you’ve stepped into another realm, with dwellings fit for Elves and cottages that would suit even the pickiest of Hobbits.
Perhaps you’d like to spend the day reading quietly alone by the fire curled up with a warm bevy, or maybe you’d prefer to try your hand at archery, or go on an epic quest.
No matter what you choose, we know there is magic waiting for you at this fantasy reading retreat.
Photo credit: Ancient Lore Village
You want more bookish friends to swap fan theories with
You want to make lifelong friendships with people who have similar interests
You know your like-minded girl squad exists, but you can’t find anyone near you
You want to bring your robust Bookstagram and Booktok communities into the real world
You want a few days to escape from the real world and travel to a place that feels like a different realm
You are 21+
This retreat is for you if:
What BOOKS ARE WE DISCUSSING?
For this retreat we will be traveling to Middle Earth, and discussing The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien.
If you’re a Tolkien fan, this is your opportunity to go on a quest to Middle Earth and meet other readers who match your passion for these books.
Hear from our past guests
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January 2025 New York Retreat
“I can honestly say attending this book retreat with F&F was one of the best decisions of my life. The immediate community and friendships I built as soon as I arrived made every nervous/anxious thought disappear from my mind. I had the greatest time with my new best friends talking about our shared interests, learning new skills, and overall just enjoying each other’s company. I truly could not recommend these retreats enough, and I cannot wait until the next one!”
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June 2024 Washington Retreat
"If you’re asking yourself, should I buy this ticket and meet up with random people I’ve never met? The answer is 100% absolutely!! I have never experienced such an immediate connection. The level of enthusiasm, acceptance, and just overall ✨women supporting women energy✨ at this retreat has blown my mind. Days later I am still riding the high of this trip. From late night talks, wine tasting, and the best charades ever, this is not a trip you want to miss out on. Thank you to Sarah and Alli for putting together such an amazing event!"
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january 2025 new york retreat
“I had the best time at the retreat and already miss my found family so much! I traveled alone, and felt an immediate kinship with the other attendees based in a shared love of stories that shaped our lives. The F+F crew planned a lovely weekend with a perfect balance of activities, and while everything was optional I wanted to participle in everything I could! Coming back to real life this particular week was difficult, but I can't wait for the next adventure!”
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"This was, by far and away, one of the most memorable and fun trips I've ever taken. The accommodations, the itinerary, the gift bags, and the incredible friends made were top notch. I wish the weekend didn't have to end! I'm so glad I decided to join the first Forest and Fawn retreat and have not stopped telling everyone I know about it. This was the most comfortable I've been in a group/social setting in a long time. As a relatively quiet introvert, it was incredibly refreshing to connect with everyone right away and be able to talk books all weekend long. 11/10!"
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June 2024 Washington Retreat
"What really made this retreat stand out was the women who attended and the activities. From TOG trivia and charades to spas and hiking, there was something for everyone to enjoy! Sarah and Alli were super passionate about the book series and had everyone laughing / debating during our book club and trivia sessions. It was so great to be surrounded by women who love the SJM universe just as much as I do! Overall, I would highly recommend Forest & Fawn to anyone looking for a fantasy book retreat. I truly feel I have made friends and connections for years to come! Thank you Sarah and Alli for an unforgettable experience!"
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"Without trying to sound dramatic this was life changing. Connecting with friends at camps is something we take for granted as kids and is so precious as an adult. Being surrounded by so many wonderful women, bonding over a shared interest, and existing in a beautiful location brought back a piece of magic in my life that I’d been struggling to find. I now have soul sisters that I will have for the rest of my life, you can’t put a price on that. This was my first time ever traveling for something where I knew nobody, it’s intimidating but so worth while. These girls will always be in my life and we’re all already planning our next adventure together. I’ve never had this type connection with a group of people before. I found my tribe."
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May 2025 New York Retreat
“I cannot express how much I loved this trip-- I typically find it hard to make friends, but I felt so safe and welcomed the second the retreat began. I put myself out of my comfort zone and am so glad I did. I made friends here who I hope to keep for a lifetime! From the games to the book club to walking through the local bookstore, everything was perfect. I truly cannot recommend Forest & Fawn retreats enough!”
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"This retreat was the perfect bookish weekend! Everything from the accommodations to the activities to the snacks were so beautifully planned to create a welcoming and inspiring space amongst new friends"
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June 2024 Washington Retreat
"This retreat was everything I hoped it would be! The accommodations were stunning, luxurious, and peaceful. I appreciate the camaraderie we built as a group and the amazing women I met. I will definitely do another retreat with Sarah & Alli again!"
Photo credit: Ancient Lore Village
What’s included?
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Ancient Lore Village offers a wide variety of dwellings, from enchanting cottages to treehouses fit for Elves. You’ll feel as if you’ve just stepped into Middle Earth!
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All meals are included starting with dinner on Friday night and ending with brunch on Sunday. Coffee, tea and other beverages will be provided throughout the days to keep you cozy.
Have an allergy or other kind of food restriction? We’ve got you covered. You’ll have an option at checkout to tell us what your specific needs are!
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We will have scheduled times to meet to discuss topics from the books, our favorite characters, and anything else your hearts desire!
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Access to an indoor swimming pool as well as several winter activities. These include outdoor ice-skating, snow-shoeing, cross country skiing, tubing (all weather dependent). Find a full list of winter activities that are included in your stay here.
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We know that your brain is chock full of random fantasy trivia that you’ve been waiting to bust out at the right occasion. Well…THIS is the right occasion. Bring your fantasy knowledge and maybe even win a prize!
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Want to try writing a fantasy story of your own? Well, you’re in the perfect place. Join us for a creative writing workshop whether you are a prolific author or a total newbie. This workshop is for everyone who wants to channel their inner storyteller.
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A privately designated meeting room for the weekend just for our group!
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Because no retreat is complete without a few things for you to take home that will serve as reminders of your magical time with Forest & Fawn retreats. Whether this weekend brings you new book besties to swap conspiracy theories with or simply a much needed break from a hectic day-to-day, we want you to remember this time forever.
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You’ll have access to a private group forum before and after your retreat. This is a great chance to connect with other fantasy-lovers (if you choose) and keep in touch once the retreat is over. Say hello to your new book besties!
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It’s all taken care of! All you have to do is book your travel, then sit back and relax!
Accommodations
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Elven Treehouse
Early Bird: $1,995
Full Price: $2,095
This dwelling is a 328 sq. ft. treehouse with a full bathroom, integrated living and sleeping spaces with an electric fireplace, a convenient wet bar, and a spacious wrap-around deck overlooking the village.
This ticket includes a private Elven Treehouse with a King bed.
This ticket is only available for single occupancy.
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Fairy Cottage
Early Bird: $1,995
Full Price: $2,095
The Fairy Cottage includes a king-size bed, full bathroom, electric fireplace, wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and French Press coffee maker, and a cozy seating area.
This ticket includes a private Fairy Cottage with a King bed.
This ticket is only available for single occupancy.
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Leprechaun Lair
Early Bird: $1,995
Full Price: $2,095
The Leprechaun Lair is a ~400 sq. ft. dwelling provides a charming king-size bed, full bathroom, electric fireplace, wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and French Press coffee maker and cozy seating area.
This ticket includes a private Leprechaun Lair with a King bed.
This ticket is only available for single occupancy.
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Orc House (ADA Compliant)
Early Bird $1,995
Full Price: $2,095
The Orc House includes a hand-crafted headboard with king-size bed, the highest ceilings on the property, full bathroom, electric fireplace, wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and coffee maker, cozy seating area, and adornments suited for a spacious stay.
This ticket includes a private Orc House with a King bed.
This ticket is only available for single occupancy.
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Gremlin Den
Early Bird: $1,995
Full Price: $2,095
The Gremlin Den features a king-size bed, full bathroom, electric fireplace, wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and French Press coffee maker, cozy seating area, and décor that makes you feel like you’re in a dream world.
This ticket includes a private Gremlin Den with a King Bed.
This ticket is only available for single occupancy.
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Luxury Elven Treehouse
Private King Room:
Early Bird $1,940
Full Price: $2,040
Sleeper Sofa:
Early Bird $1,550
Full Price: $1,650
This dwelling is a 900 sq. ft. treehouse featuring two private bedrooms, a cozy living room with a vaulted ceiling and electric fireplace, a kitchenette and wet bar with seating for four, two full bathrooms, and a captivating wrap-around deck.
This ticket includes a private bedroom in a Luxury Elven Treehouse with a King bed OR a sleeper sofa located in the living room (you get to choose!)
Roommate assignments will be random unless noted at checkout. If you are traveling with a friend, you will both need to purchase a ticket and request each other as a roommate at checkout.
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Waterfall Villa
Private King Room:
Early Bird: $1,940
Full Price: $2,040
Private Sleeper Sofa Room:
Early Bird: $1,675
Full Price: $1,775
The Waterfall Villa is built as two rooms with a door connecting the two. The first room is a birchwood-themed 600 sq. ft. room, complete with a king size bed, full bath featuring a waterfall shower, electric fireplace, sitting area, dining table, and wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and French Press coffee maker. The adjoining 400 sq. ft. room offers a spacious and cozy queen-size sleeper sofa, full bath, hanging chair nest, electric fireplace, dining table, and wet bar with microwave, mini refrigerator and French Press coffee maker.
This ticket includes a private King room or a private sleeper sofa room.
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Fairy Family Cottage
Queen Bed
Early Bird: $1,855
Full Price: $1,955
Twin Bed
Early Bird: $1,575
Full Price: $1,675
This dwelling is a 385 sq. ft. Fairy themed dwelling that features a sleeping area complete with a Queen and two Twins, a full bathroom, and a wet bar area.
This ticket includes a Queen or Twin bed in a shared space.
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Orc Family House
Queen Bed
Early Bird: $1,855
Full Price: $1,955
Twin Bed
Early Bird: $1,575
Full Price: $1,675
This dwelling is a 385 sq. ft. Orc themed dwelling that features a sleeping area complete with a Queen and two Twins, a full bathroom, and a wet bar area.
This ticket includes a Queen or Twin bed in a shared space.
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Bokee's Bungalow
Private Queen Bedroom
Early Bird: $1,940
Full Price: $2,040
Twin Bed
Early Bird: $1,500
Full Price: $1,600
Bokee’s Bungalow is the largest dwelling in Ancient Lore Village! The main floor features two private bedrooms each with a queen bed, two full bathrooms, a truly unique dinette built into the wall to fit your entire party, a custom wood-burning fireplace, and a wet bar. Upstairs, at the top of the curved staircase, you’ll find two sets of twin-sized bunk beds, a full bathroom, a game area, and unique seating areas.
This ticket includes a private Queen bedroom OR a twin bunk in Bokee’s Bungalow.
Hear from our past guests
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June 2024 Washington Retreat
Although I did do this retreat to meet new people and widen my circle, the main reason I did it was to do something new and exciting. I feel like we often get stuck in our routines as we age. It was fun to put myself out there, push myself and give room to grow. If you want to surround yourself with strong, body positive, smart, kind, supportive people who love books, this is the retreat for you.
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"I had an incredible time. The retreat was a great balance of scheduled and non-scheduled time. The location was amazing, and the people really made this experience next level. I felt comfortable, welcomed, and just that I could generally be myself, and I cannot say enough amazing things about this community."
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June 2024 Washington Retreat
"The only trip I have ever booked because of Instagram and it was the best decision ever! I didnt expect such lasting connections with all of these amazing humans to be built in two days. Everyone was so open, kind, fun, smart and absolute book nerds in the best way 🫶🫶🫶 #smutconferenceinthewoods created a core memory for this millennial 😂"
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"This quite honestly was the most amazing experience I have ever had. I get socially drained quickly and I didn’t feel like this drained me much at all. Thank you for creating such a safe space for us to all get to know each other. ❤️"
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January 2025 New York Retreat
“I can honestly say attending this book retreat with F&F was one of the best decisions of my life. The immediate community and friendships I built as soon as I arrived made every nervous/anxious thought disappear from my mind. I had the greatest time with my new best friends talking about our shared interests, learning new skills, and overall just enjoying each other’s company. I truly could not recommend these retreats enough, and I cannot wait until the next one!”
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"Thank you Alli and Sarah for your devotion to bringing this vision to life! You held space for a whimsical, enchanted, delightful, this-feels-like-home, magical experience for all of us! Returning to fantasy reading in my 40s helped me fall in love with myself all over again, to feel brave, and curious, and look at the world as brilliant and expansive. This retreat was proof of how special it is share that experience with others. I will be back for many, many Forest and Fawn retreats...and if we're ever at Captain Whidbey Inn again, maybe we'll get another glimpse of the mermaid in the cove under the moon."
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January 2025 New York Retreat
“Attending this retreat was such a wonderful experience! I registered without knowing a single other person who would be attending, but left with so many new life-long friends. Being surrounded by so many amazing, similar-minded women made it so easy for me to step outside of my comfort zone and get to know new people. Thank you so very much to all of the hosts for creating such a warm and welcoming environment!! 💖”
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April 2024 Washington Retreat
"Book the retreat! I was not prepared for how amazing this weekend was. The book chat, the new friends, the location, the events, the food (omg the food!)-- all 10/10. Forest & Fawn have created the warm, cozy book sisterhood we all need. Thank you!"
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January 2025 New York Retreat
“I had an absolute blast! I was a little unsure going into something that I didn't know anyone, but loved everything! Everything was so inclusive and truly enjoyed getting to know everyone. The planned events were so fun and never felt pressured to participate in thing if I didn't want to. I would do an other one in a heartbeat!”
Meet the Hosts
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Sarah
"FAWN"
Co-Founder of Forest & Fawn, Bookish Content Creator, and Romantasy/Fantasy Connoisseur.
Can and will be found yapping about a shadow daddy somewhere (don't bother trying to stop her, it's like waking up a sleepwalker).
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Emily
"FJORD"
Emily is our adventure-loving, sea-faring skipper. If you want to taste wine, scale some rocks, or talk about The Wager, (please someone talk to her about The Wager), Emily is your go-to.
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Liz
"FOX"
Community Manager, Writer, and Expert of All Things Witchy and Woo-Woo.
Plus the most nurturing spirit you’ll ever encounter. What are the kids saying these days? “Mother”?
You Deserve a Weekend Like This.
This isn’t just about reading. It’s about remembering who you are when life gets quiet.
Want first access to registration?
join our membership!
Be part of The Reading Nook membership for fantasy readers, The Writer’s Corner membership for fantasy writers, or both!
With features like a monthly book club, creative writing workshops, bookish virtual events, critique partner matchup, and more, these memberships will encourage you to let your imagination run wild and connect with fantasy lovers all over the world.
Want to know more about what these memberships have to offer?
Getting there
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE: The retreat starts with a Meet and Greet at 2pm on Friday the 10th, with check-in being at 3pm that day. The event will run until 12:00 pm on the 12th—ending with brunch on Sunday. You are welcome to arrive as early as you like on Friday and explore the venue until the Meet and Greet!
Plane: The closest airport to Knoxville, TN is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located about 12 miles south of downtown. It handles commercial flights from airlines including Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, and United.
FAQs
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Yes! Alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase at the inn bar, but if you prefer herbal tea, that will be available all day at no extra cost!
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If you book a shared room, you will have an option in checkout to request a roommate! Make sure you both add each other to your order to ensure you end up in the same room.
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Yes! Well, as long as you take breaks to eat and use the restroom. This retreat is made for YOU. All activities are optional.
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Yes! Whatever your restrictions are, we’ve got you covered. Or rather, the staff at the Lodge at St. Edwards has you covered.
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Yes! You can choose to check out with AfterPay at checkout for orders up to $2,000.
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This retreat is for YOU. That means that nothing is mandatory. If you want to curl up and read in your luxurious bed all day, go for it. If you want to take your lunch on the road and see the natural wonders of the area, by all means. Our activities are solely here as options to enhance your experience.
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Due to the capacity of our venue, daypasses are not available for this retreat.