For years I’ve heard from writers—whether starting out or already published or bestsellers—that critique groups are important. Very important. Many famous writers attribute part of their success to the encouragement and assistance offered by fellow writers. One of the most famous critique groups is probably The Inklings, which C.S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien were part of.
Find a Critique Group
The only problem is—how do you find such a critique group? My first attempt at joining an online critique group fizzled. We submitted and critiqued for a few months, but then summer hit and we took a break that never ended. I was unable to find other writers in my geographical area, and too broke to pay for the critiques offered by numerous published authors willing to help newbies like me.
Websites
Some websites, like FanStory, FaithWriters, and CoffeeHouse for Writers offer online critiques. I’ve heard good things about FanStory but haven’t ventured to join yet. I posted one story in the FaithWriters critique forums, but found I was giving way more detailed critiques than I was receiving. “Great story” didn’t help me know where I needed to improve. Entering FaithWriters’ weekly challenges provided some feedback, in the form of readers’ comments and where I placed in the contest.
Recently, author and blogger, Steena Holmes, started her own critique group. As Steena says, we all “need someone with fresh eyes to view my work and see those errors that I can’t see anymore.” I’ve jumped into Steena’s group and am looking forward to learning with her. If, like me, you’re also looking for a critique group, come join us.
3 Comments
Loren – that’s great! 🙂
Steena – I didn’t realize you had to pay for Fanstory. Like you, I don’t like that. I think I also didn’t like the big, impersonal aspect of it. It’s easier to get to know other writers in a smaller group. 🙂
Thanks Bonnie – you are a sweetie! We’ll learn as we go along, but I’m excited about our group starting!
I have used fanstory and have received a lot of fantastic feedback, even won a contest there, but the one thing I don’t like about it is that you have to pay each month.
I like the idea of having a group of writers who have the same passion helping each other along. We don’t need to pay for it. We can be there to encourage, strengthen and grow together. We don’t have to be alone and we don’t have to pay for that to happen.
Thank you for asking…I’d love to join. Count me in! -Loren