Write It Anyway Returns!

+ other opportunities to write in 2026

Hello all,

It’s that strange week between Christmas and New Year’s—when we’re busy, distracted, bombarded with sales, yet somehow dreaming about what we want to do differently in the coming year. If writing is one of those dreams, I wanted to drop into your inbox with a few opportunities to make it real.

Write It Anyway Returns!

This is a FREE two-hour generative writing workshop for writers of all levels. Inspired by my book Shame on You: How to Be a Woman in the Age of Mortification, it’s about using writing as a tool for healing and resilience. We’ll start with a short conversation about shame—how it shows up, how it shapes us—and how storytelling can turn it into clarity, compassion, and courage. Then, we’ll write. Fifteen minutes at a time. Share if you want. Keep it private if you need. This is a space to give voice to the stories you’ve been taught to silence. To register, email melissa.petro@gmail.com

Other Opportunities in 2026

Writing for Shame Resilience: Turning Shame Into Your Superpower (March 30 – April 3 @ Esalen Institute, Big Sur, California) offers five days of in-person writing, reflection, and transformation. Over the course of the workshop, you’ll step into your most authentic self, learn to listen deeply to others and find the true connection you’ve been longing for. This is how to make it happen. Email me for more info or to register visit https://www.esalen.org/workshops/writing-for-shame-resilience-turning-shame-into-your-superpower-03302026 .

BRING YOUR BOOK TO LIFE: A 12-Month Nonfiction Book Incubator (25 sessions | Every Other Thursday, 7–9 PM EST | January 15 – December 17, 2026) is a year-long generative workshop for twelve writers committed to completing their book-length nonfiction manuscripts and/or book proposals in 2026. This is the year to write your book with guidance, accountability, and a supportive community of fellow writers. Sign up or for more info here.

Nailed It: Conceptualizing Your Nonfiction Book (January 17–24) helps you get crystal clear on your book’s purpose, core message, and structure. It’s perfect for writers who are ready to turn a big idea into a concrete, actionable plan. Register here.

Individual Attention

Mentorship Packages

From gentle accountability to full manuscript coaching, I offer support for every stage of your writing journey:

Write + Thrive: Start or restart a disciplined, joyful writing practice.

Freelance Foundations: Publish short nonfiction with guidance and industry insight.

Book Builder: Shape and refine your manuscript with an eye toward publication.

Book Proposal 101: Craft a compelling proposal to launch your book.

For more info email melissa.petro@gmail.com

Development Editing

If you have a manuscript that’s ready for refinement, I’ll work with you to shape and strengthen your narrative, focusing on structure, pacing, character development, and overall clarity—while ensuring your voice and vision remain true.

Bespoke Retreats

Email me for more information on manuscript refinement and custom retreats in my cozy upstate farmhouse—quiet, focused, restorative.

If writing is the resolution that matters most to you, let’s make it happen.

x x

Melissa