be wary.
be clever.
be good.
Fantasy Reading Retreat for Women and Femmes
featuring The Shepherd King Duology and
The Stonewater Kingdom books by Rachel Gillig
hill farm inn
sunderland, vermont
september 18-20, 2026
Guest Count: Approx. 30
registration info
Registration will open first with early bird pricing to members of the Forest & Fawn Membership Community, before opening to our email list.
Registration times are as follows:
Membership Community: Monday, February 9, 2026 at 12pm ET
Email List: Monday, February 9, 2026 at 2pm ET
If tickets are not sold out, they will be made available to the public at full price on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Picture this.
You arrive at a charming inn and farm nestled in the Equinox Valley in Southern Vermont. It’s mid-September and fall foliage is upon us, drenching the mountains in colorful hues that create the perfect moody ambiance for a bookish getaway.
You’re surrounded by readers who are just as passionate about your favorite books as you are. Who fell in love with these fantastical, gothic worlds. Who want to hear your theories and share some of their own. Who you can be yourself around and feel truly seen.
Whether you’d like to spend the day quietly reading alone surrounded by beautiful nature, or fostering connection with other women and femmes who just get you, know there is magic waiting for you at this moody and magical bookish retreat.
Photo credit: Hill Farm Inn
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 book retreat is for you if:
What BOOKS ARE WE DISCUSSING?
For this retreat we will be discussing The Shepherd King Duology and The Stonewater Kingdom books by Rachel Gillig!
After hundreds of requests, we couldn’t resist hosting a retreat centered around these dark, gothic fantasies that have become the favorites of so many.
The Shepherd King Duology follows the story of Elspeth Spindle, a woman with a dark secret, and a Nightmare who has taken up residence in her mind. Thrown into the chaos of magic, deception, and a bit of romance, she must work alongside her enemies to gather the Providence Cards, the keys to a cure for the dark magic infecting their home. But can she do it before the Nightmare takes her over completely?
On the other hand, The Stonewater Kingdom books follow Sybil Delling, a Diviner who has spent her life living in a cathedral and receiving visions from the Omens. When her fellow Diviners start to go missing one by one, she seeks the help of a very skeptical (and very attractive) knight. But her journey will reveal more than the answers she seeks; it will also reveal the dark secrets she must face.
Are you intrigued yet? Whether these books are new to you, or a staple on your bookshelf, this retreat is for you!
Reviews 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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November 2025 Washington Retreat
"This was my third F&F retreat and it was amazing. It was the smallest group for me and it made it feel more intimate and I was able to get to know more people than in previous retreats…It's truly a magical experience to be with a group of people that you know like the same things as you do so there's no awkward "getting to know you" period and you can just jump right into things you love. Can't wait for my next retreat! "
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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: Hill Farm Inn
What’s included?
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Hill Farm offers luxurious and cozy accommodations perfect for the guest who wants to experience the stunning nature of Southern Vermont, read amongst the foliage, or in a quiet nook or on the farmhouse porch. Choose from a private or shared suite, a room in the inn, or even a shared cottage!
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All meals are included starting with dinner on Friday night and ending with breakfast 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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From trivia to cozy crafting and more, all activities on our itinerary are included!
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We know that your brain is 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!
hill farm inn
Located just 10 minutes from Manchester Center, Hill Farm is a beautiful 70-acre campus surrounded by breathtaking mountains and stunning riverside walking paths, where you can go to relax, connect with nature, and curl up with your favorite gothic fantasy books.
Accommodations
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Private Inn Room
Early Bird:
$1,995
Full Price:
$2,095
Enjoy a private room all to yourself! Inn rooms each have their own unique design and include a private room and bathroom. This is perfect for the traveller who wants space to themselves to relax, unwind, and crack open a book after spending the day making new friends.
If you would like to share your bed, you can choose the “Add on a Roommate” option when putting the ticket in your cart.
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Private or Shared Suite
Early Bird:
Private Suite: $2,050
Queen Bed in Shared Suite: $1,850
Twin Daybed in Shared Suite: $1,250
Full Price:
Private Suite: $2,150
Queen Bed in Shared Suite: $1,950
Twin Daybed in Shared Suite: $1,350
Want some extra space? Stay in a suite! Each suite features one private bedroom, plus a sitting area (where the Twin Daybeds are located if you choose a shared suite) and a private bathroom.
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.
If you are booking a private room and would like to share your bed, you can choose the “Add on a Roommate” option when putting the ticket in your cart.
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Private or shared room in Farmhouse
Early Bird:
Private Room: $1,995
Twin Bed in Shared Room: $1,350
Full Price:
Private Room: $2,095
Twin Bed in Shared Room: $1,450
Want multiple roomies, but your own private room? Try the Farmhouse! This accommodation is a two story cottage complete with a full kitchen and gathering space. Did someone say slumber party?!
If you would like to share your bed, you can choose the “Add on a Roommate” option when putting the ticket in your cart.
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Private or shared room in Riverhouse
Early Bird:
Private Room: $1,995
Queen Bed in Shared Room: $1,550
Twin Daybed in Shared Room: $1,250
Full Price:
Private Room: $2,095
Queen Bed in Shared Room: $1,650
Twin Daybed in Shared Room: $1,350
IMPORTANT: Please note that the Riverhouse is approximately 0.5 miles down the road from the main inn and venue.
Want to share a large cottage, and have more privacy a short ways down the road? Try the Riverhouse! This accommodation is on it’s own private campus, complete with fire pits, full kitchens, cozy sitting rooms, and winding riverside trails.
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.
If you are booking a private room and would like to share your bed, you can choose the “Add on a Roommate” option when putting the ticket in your cart.
what people are saying
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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 and finding your people.
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: Hotel check-in starts at 3:00pm on Friday, September 18th, 2026. Check-out is at 11:00am on Sunday, September 20th, 2026.
Plane: The closest airport to Hill Farm is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airpot, Rutland, VT (35 miles away), or Albany International Airport, Albany, NY (57 miles away).
For those flying, you will have a chance to coordinate with other guests to carpool with rental cars in advance if you would like.
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.
If you book a private king, you will have the option to share your bed with a friend by choosing the “Add on a Roommate” option when you go to book your ticket.
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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.