“This is a great event to bring a work-in-progress that I had been stuck on for a while. The classes, critique sessions, and side conversations all helped generate new ideas and give the story new life.“
-2026 attendee

“Sandia Starforgers is the sort of retreat every writer needs to attend at least once. It’s a small, kind, supportive group of excellent writers and they’re working toward the common goal of putting out great work. It was a wonderful experience and my writing is better for having attended.”
– 2025 attendee

“The topic, length, and timing of classes was great, nearing perfect.”
– 2024 attendee

“This was a really awesome space to explore the nuances of the craft with like-minded people. I also liked the low-barrier access to folks with firsthand knowledge and insight into the industry and struggles.”
– 2025 attendee

“I loved the classes! I learned so much about critiquing and pitching! I left the retreat so excited about my writing and I haven’t felt that in a long while!”
– 2024 attendee

“The smaller class size is what makes this event so enjoyable for me. I’m glad it’s capped at a small number of students. It makes it easier to get to know people and have more meaningful conversations. The venue is great, too.”
– 2025 attendee

“If you’re struggling with your inner saboteur—and what writer isn’t—Sandia Starforgers will knock it out of your system with the sheer force of its community. Professionally I have never felt so seen and appreciated.”
-2026 attendee

“I loved the classes – super informative!”
-2026 attendee

“This entire event was amazing. I had one of the best critique experiences I’ve ever had at Sandia Starforgers. The classes were good and either very vital to the overall publishing process or on new topics; I’ve taken a fair number of writing classes, so getting a fresh topic is always a treat. I really enjoyed the food and location too. And the snacks. But most especially the people. I felt like I got something positive out of this experience on both a personal and a writing front and would definitely attend again.“
– 2025 attendee

“It was really great spending time and learning from such a wonderful group of people.“
– 2024 attendee

“Starforgers has been a wonderful experience in finding community and honing my skills, I absolutely recommend this workshop to others.”
– 2025 attendee

“It was a really wonderful, successful, friendly environment.”
– 2024 attendee

“I got something valuable out of every class.”
– 2025 attendee

“I got so much out of this event. I’ve learned so much that I will be processing for awhile. The staff go out of their way to make sure we feel comfortable and safe. And most importantly, everyone, writers, staff, and instructors are so wonderful — the interactions I had make my heart so full.”
-2026 attendee

“It’s delightful spending time among your people, and for me these are my people. Even for an introvert, conversations just flow easily.”
-2026 attendee

“The conversations I had with other writers at Starforgers truly helped me get unstuck from some patterns that had developed in my writing process. I came home energized and ready to get back to work with a healthier approach.”
– 2025 attendee

“Just all-around fabulous, super well organized and great communication. Extremely valuable insights, sharing and giving feedback was great.“
– 2024 attendee

“I thought the event was really well organized. It was my first retreat and I didn’t know what to expect but at no point did I feel left out or confused. Everyone was really nice and I learned so much. I would absolutely do this again.”
– 2025 attendee

“Overall, this was a great experience for me, personally, and I’m very glad I attended.”
– 2024 attendee

“The classes are informative and useful, but the time spent among kind peers is invaluable.”
-2025 attendee