creative writing groups online

Become a better writer and meet beta readers in our online writing group

Scribophile is one of the largest and most award-winning online writing communities.

Make your writing shine with feedback from other writers

You’ve spent a lot of time writing your story. But how can you make it perfect before you start thinking about publishing?

Scribophile is a writing group focused on getting you feedback on your manuscript. — in fact, we’re one of the largest online writing groups out there. Our points-based peer critique system guarantees you’ll get feedback from writers from all walks of life. You can then use that feedback to polish your writing before you take the next step in your publishing journey.

How Scribophile works

1 earn points by giving feedback.

Earn karma points by critiquing writing. Giving feedback to group members is fast, easy, fun, and helps improve your own writing, too!

2 Get feedback on your own writing

Spend karma points to post your own writing for critique from our writing community — anything from flash fiction to novels. Our writer’s group will give you detailed feedback on how to improve it, regardless of your specific genre, and all in a supportive environment.

3 Make friends and meet beta readers

As you participate in our writing group, you’ll meet and form relationships with many different kinds writers. They’ll become your inspiration, your encouragement, and even your beta readers, ready to help with your current manuscript, and your next ones too!

Scribophile was the first place I stopped when I went from being an I-wanna-be-a-writer to I-am-an-author. Now I have four international bestselling novels with major publishers, and when authors come to me I always send them to Scribophile. Genevieve Graham Tides of Honour and others published with Simon & Schuster

Join writing workshops and level up your writing

Our writing workshops are taught by bestselling authors, expert teachers, and industry insiders. We have workshops for writers of any skill level, where we cover everything from beginning topics to advanced techniques.

Our writing workshops are designed to be both comprehensive and transformational — they’re your fast track to leveling up your writing.

Some of our upcoming writing workshops

Unlocking Your Story’s Midpoint with Jacquelin Cangro

Jun 8, 2024 • 2 hour webinar

Author, developmental editor, and book coach Jacquelin Cangro shows you how to make sure your midpoint keeps readers engaged while driving the plot forward toward the climax.

Crafting Purposeful Secondary Characters with Claudia Whitsitt

Jun 15, 2024 • 2 hour webinar with instructor feedback on your writing

Author and expert writing teacher Claudia Whitsitt shows you how to create meaningful and moving secondary characters that fill out a well-rounded story.

Our writing group welcomes writers of any skill level

Our writing group welcomes writers of all skill levels — from beginners to published authors, and every writer in between.

Each critique you receive on your manuscript is a fresh perspective for you to incorporate. Our bustling writing forums feature writers discussing the craft twenty-four hours a day — share inspiration, ignite your creativity, get support, and connect with others no matter your genre. Plus, our extensive Writing Academy is full of insightful articles on the art — and business — of writing.

Scribophile played a major part in helping me polish my novel for submission. I learnt a huge amount from critiquing other people’s work, as well as from reading critiques of mine. I now have a wonderful agent and have signed a three-book deal in the UK, a two-book deal in Germany, and a TV option. The book was also shortlisted for The Debut Dagger! Roz Watkins The Devil’s Dice and others published with HarperCollins

Giving and receiving critiques on Scribophile made a big difference to the quality of my writing. I learned how to write a query letter here and that led to an agent and a book deal. Ruth Lauren Prisoner of Ice and Snow and others published with Bloomsbury

No more writing alone — meet your new community

Sometimes, the hardest part of the writing process is how lonely it can get.

That’s why the most important part of Scribophile is our community of hundreds of thousands of writers from all over the world. No matter what genre you work in, or how far along you are in your manuscript, the friends you make at Scribophile will give encouragement, accountability, and will finally take the loneliness out of our solitary craft.

My years on Scribophile have given me a master’s level education in writing. The critiques are great, but I’ve learned as much from reading and analyzing other writers on Scribophile. I don’t think I could have polished my novel to a publishable level without this site. I’m an addict. Laura Creedle The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily published with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

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7 Online Writing Communities for Authors

• March 27, 2020

Writing is, and has always been, a solitary endeavor. Still, any accomplished or novice writer will tell you that a writing community is just as important as their keyboard or notebook. Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to find online writing groups to connect with other authors and grow your craft.

We write alone, but what we write is for a broader audience. And unless you’re ‌1) a literary genius or 2) extremely lucky, you won’t be able to transition from solitary creation to popular adoption without an intermediary step. That step is your writing community.

Why Online Writing Communities Matter

Because we are social animals. Plain and simple. Even the most introverted of our fellow writers need some interaction. Having a community of writers is more than just a way to discuss writing with your peers. And it’s more than just a means to improve your writing. Taking part in writing communities is beneficial for your writing and your mental health.

We don’t just need to socialize because it’s good for our psyche ; we also need the advice, encouragement, and criticism of other writers. Published authors, who may seem like some of the least social creatures, need a community as much or more than anyone. 

Thankfully, we have more options and opportunities to connect than ever before. Online writing groups for beginners, novices, and seasoned professionals exist and thrive all across the web. It’s important that you look for an online writing community frequented by writers like you who can lend support, empathize with your struggle, and ultimately help you become a better writer.

Today, I’ve got seven of the top online writing communities you can consider. Even if none of these examples are a good fit for you, I’m sure there is a community of writers out there. 

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1. NaNoWriMo Forums

NaNoWriMo (the official name for National Novel Writing Month) has long been an annual challenge for me . Basically, authors commit to writing 50,000 words (about the length of a short novel) in ‌November. For anyone who writes regularly, this is both ambitious and exciting. 

But what about the other eleven months? Over the years, the staff at NaNoWriMo have spun out the idea, with many virtual writing groups called ‘Camps’ during the year to help keep the inspiration flowing. Their writing forums are some of the best on the web for authors. From simply chatting in the Coffee House to finding genre-specific advice, NaNo’s forums are rich with authors like you.

Note that accessing their forums requires you to sign up for a free account.

Who It’s For – Authors at all levels, but specifically great for authors in the first/second draft stage.

Check Out The NaNo Forums – https://nanowrimo.org/about-nano  

2. Chronicles

The Chronicles is another writing forum, this time focusing specifically on science fiction and fantasy genres. If that’s you, then you’ll probably find something to love on the Chronicles!

In contrast to the NaNo forums, the Chronicles are not as active a community. You’ll notice threads have new posts and comments, but not a lot of them. So, if you’re looking for a bustling place, the Chronicle may not be for you. But if you want something highly specialized, focusing on sci-fi and fantasy, you’ll find good advice, delightful conversation, and lots of classic author spotlights.

Who It’s For – Science fiction and fantasy authors who want to connect and find inspiration.

Go To Chronicles – https://www.sffchronicles.com/  

3. Critique Circle

Don’t let the drab layout and colors of the Critique Circle fool you. The CC is a very active community, featuring both a user forum and a peer-to-peer critique section. They also offer some really nice free resources—from listing useful websites to guides on using metaphors, magic systems, and character development.

I’ve never used the critique functions from Critique Circle (I’ll talk about one I have used later), but the idea is one of the most useful I’ve found to date for writers. If you’ve ever taken part in a writer’s workshop (and if not, you should!) you’ll be familiar with the form. Basically, you post some work you’ve done, usually within a word count limit. Other authors read it and chime in with thoughts, criticisms, and encouragement. 

Who It’s For – Serious authors looking for valuable critiques and resources.

Get In The Circle – https://www.critiquecircle.com/forums.asp  

4. Underlined

Underlined, it must be noted, is part of Penguin Random House. I hesitated to even add them for that reason alone. But after spending some time checking out the site, I would be remiss not to mention Underlined.

Underlined is more of an aggregated set of user-generated blogs than a forum, so it differs from the other communities I’ve mentioned. The upside of this is that there are a lot of active members and with the backing of PRH, the site is well-designed and easy to navigate. 

I suggest thinking about Underlined like a mini-Medium; rich in content to read and discuss, with a focus on reading, creating, and creative lifestyles. But it’s not a true creative writing group online, nor is it a place for critiques or beta readers. Underlined really is for authors who write and share long-form content.

Who It’s For – Readers and writers who want to learn and connect over long-form content.

Get Underlined – https://www.getunderlined.com/  

5. Writing.Com

Another amazing writing hub, Writing.com is part forum, part resource center, and part industry news site. They really do it all to foster an online community for authors. 

The forums are very active and they host several really great writing prompts (which is one of my favorite ways to overcome writer’s block). With so much content, Writing.com offers fiction and nonfiction writers lots of resources and opportunities to connect. The Shameless Plug Page is also really cool, giving authors a space to share a short story or segment from a longer work with like-minded and interested readers. 

Who It’s For – Anyone looking for feedback, writing tips, and connections with other authors.

Check Out Writing.com – https://www.writing.com/main/newsfeed  

Reddit is a massive forum community, hosting groups that focus on literally everything and anything. Their thread for writing, writers, and publishers, r/writing , is a writing forum for beginners and veterans. If you’re looking for a space with a lot (1 million-plus) members, Reddit’s writing thread is for you.

It’s also a bit more open to ‘off-topic’ content like industry news, book promotions, and general writing-related content. 

Still, if you’re into the writing life and want to stay in the loop or just chat with others who are likewise interested, Reddit is a wonderful place to pass some time. You’ll also find lots of posts boosting writing courses, new books from indie authors, and similar self-promoted content. Not all of it will be worth your time, but Reddit’s writing thread has some gems from time to time.

Who It’s For – Authors who want to connect with other authors on a variety of levels.

Become A Redditor – https://www.reddit.com/r/writing  

7. Scribophile

I saved the best for last! I enjoy using Scribophile regularly. The site has two primary offerings; writing critiques and general author forums. While Scribophile does many of the same things Critique Circle does, I’ve found the users to be more responsive and the site just easier to navigate.

You can offer and ask for critiques, giving authors feedback and requesting your own work be critiqued. Again, we have that writing workshop feeling, but with a bit more emphasis on being an uplifting, positive community. The critiques are honest and pointed, but rarely unkind or disparaging–something I’m sure we’ve all experienced in the past. I’ve ‌used Scribophile to give and receive critiques and I’ve never been disappointed.

Who It’s For – Serious and novice authors looking to improve and connect.

Check Out Scribophile – https://www.scribophile.com/  

Building Your Writing Skills

There’s a lot that goes into writing. And there are a lot of writing groups to support every aspect of the process. I didn’t even touch on social media (unless you count Reddit), but Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn all have active writer groups you could join. I personally like to shy away from crossing over my writing and social media for fear of distraction. Keep social media for the marketing step , I say.

Paul is the Senior Content Manager at Lulu.com . When he’s not entrenched in the publishing and print-on-demand world, he likes to hike the scenic North Carolina landscape, read, sample the fanciest micro-brewed beer, and collect fountain pens. Paul is a dog person but considers himself cat-tolerant.

Very nice i wanna join

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Blog • Perfecting your Craft

Posted on Sep 04, 2019

49 Places to Find a Critique Circle to Improve Your Writing

Contrary to popular belief, writers aren’t solitary creatures by default. In fact, we’re often better when we write together , swapping trade secrets and exchanging manuscripts for mutual critique. Unfortunately, accidents of geography can stop us from congregating as often as we’d like. We don’t all live in literary hubs like London and NYC, so finding a critique circle in real life can be a bit of a challenge.

Luckily, you don’t have to be limited by the vagaries of place: there are plenty of online spaces where you can find writing partners ( and their excellent tips ). From the Critique Circle — the internet’s most famous writing group — to the more intimate critique groups studding the netscape, it’s easy enough to find gimlet-eyed readers ready to bring out the potential in your works-in-progress.

We’ve rounded 51 places to get feedback on your work. General writing critique groups are at the top, and genre-focused communities at the bottom. Because, to paraphrase the Starks of Winterfell , if the lone wolf dies while the pack survives, the lone writer struggles while the critique circle thrives.

GENERAL CRITIQUE GROUPS

1. Critique Circle

Most of this list is in alphabetical order, but Critique Circle is so well-known it’s worth breaking the mold. This Iceland-based community has a no-frills aesthetic. But since it opened in 2003, it’s offered more than 700,000 critiques for over 140,000 stories. Members sign up for free and earn credits — needed to put their work up for review — by offering feedback to other users. Every 3 reviews earns you enough credits to “buy” an opportunity to post.

Freshly enrolled writers have their work scheduled in a Newbie Queue, which sends their writing out for feedback faster than the regular queue. Word to the wise: the quality of feedback can vary — especially if they come from newbie members still learning the art of constructive criticism. But experienced members stand by to help to newbies as they get comfortable with the process.

Perfect if: You want to check out the internet’s most famous critique group

2. Reedsy Writing Prompts Contest

Yes, this one is facilitated through our very site! Here at Reedsy, we host a weekly writing contest where writers are invited to submit a short story based on one of our writing prompts. Shortly after launching this contest, we noticed a cool thing happening: writers started leaving constructive criticism and feedback on one another's stories — completely un prompted. We decided we wanted to encourage this initiative, so we created a critique circle within the contest.

Here's how it works: sign up for a free Reedsy Prompts account , and submit a short story to one of our contests. Once the contest ends, you'll receive an email asking you to leave feedback on other participants' stories — and the other entrants will likewise be encouraged to leave feedback on  your story.

Perfect if: You want the opportunity to earn cash prizes as part of your critique circle experience

3. 10 Minute Novelists Facebook Group

This support group for time-crunched writers runs a weekly #BuddyDay thread every Tuesday, where members can post their work for review. Excerpts are fair game, as are blurbs , author bios, cover art, and the like. If you’d like to test drive a couple of different packages for your indie masterpiece, #BuddyDay might be a good place to start.

Even if it’s not Tuesday, 10 Minute Novelists is a great place to “hang out.” Members commiserate about how real life gets in the way of your literary dreams — and encourage each other to stick it out anyway.

Perfect if: You know you’ve got a novel inside you, but you can’t seem to carve out more than 10 minutes a day to actually write it

4. ABCTales

This free writing community lets members post their own work and comment on each others’ — think WattPad, with way less emphasis on One Direction fanfic. Discussion seems to revolve around how to write a poem to best effect, although some short story writers frequent the forums as well. The feedback tends to be earnest and encouraging. Members happily dole out congratulations at one another’s literary triumphs.

ABCTales emphasizes slow and steady writerly development more than hustling for bylines. The pieces posted on its forums likely won’t be eligible for publication at many mainstream outlets, so they tend to be exercises written for practice, or from sheer love of the craft. That said, there is a forum full of writers swapping tips for publication .

Perfect if: You want a wholesome community to help you hone your craft in a low-stakes way

5. Absolute Write Water Cooler

This sprawling writers’ forum can be a bit of a maze, but there’s a wealth of material to help you along on your writing journey. If you’re in search of critique, you’ll want to make your way to the Beta Readers, Mentors, and Writing Buddies board. It works a little like a craft-focused version of the old Craigslist Personals section. Just post a description of the piece you’re working on, and forum members who fancy giving it a beta read will get in touch.

While you’re waiting for your perfect beta reader to respond to your post, you can hang out on any of Absolute Write ’s other craft-focused message boards. Many are genre-specific: check out Now We’re Cookin’! if you’re into food writing, or Flash Fiction if you’re a fan of pith.

Perfect if: You harbor romantic fantasies of finding your One True Reader on a personals site

6. Christopher Fielden

Christopher Fielden’s website offers tons of free resources – ranging from how to do research, how to keep your creativity fresh, and advice about self-publishing. He also curates a list of writing competitions – whether you’re looking to submit a short story or a poem, there are tons of options to choose from. You can pay for a critique from his team as well and a seasoned writer like Dr. Lynda Nash or Allen Ashley will go over your short story, novel, or poem.

7. Beta Readers and Critique Partners Facebook Group

This Facebook group has been helping writers find beta readers for two years now, and it’s still going strong. Almost 500 new members joined in the last month, bringing the total up to over 7,000. Rest assured, the mods won’t tolerate any nonsense: scorched earth critiques are forbidden, and members are encouraged to be kind at all times.

The Beta Readers and Critique Partners group welcomes members of all skill levels. Participants do their best to keep in mind whether they’re reading a seasoned pro, or someone just getting started as a beta reader . Self-promotion is banned, so don’t worry about being spammed.

Perfect if: You want a group where newbies can freely mingle with seasoned pros

8. Critique It

This peer review tool works like Google Docs on steroids: a group of collaborators can work on the same project, leave each other feedback, and feel like they’re all gathered around the same desk even if they’re actually scattered across the globe. Unlike GDocs, Critique It makes it easy to drop in video and audio files as well. That way, critics can leave their feedback in whatever format they like.

It won’t actually help you find a critique group. But it will let you form one with whoever you choose — no matter where in the world they’re based.

Perfect if: You want to form a writing group with friends from afar

9. The Desk Drawer

Here’s a critique group with high standards: send out multiple submissions that haven’t been spell-checked, and the group just might kick you out. This ultra-active, email-based workshop is a perfect fit for the kind of scribblers who thrive off prompts —  and who want to use them to hone their craft in the (virtual) company of fifty-odd like-minded writers. Every week, The Desk Drawer sends out a writing exercise. Members can respond directly to the prompt with a SUB (submission) — or offer a CRIT (critique) of another writer’s response.

To stay on the mailing list, workshoppers have to send out at least three posts a month: 1 SUB and 2 CRITS, or 3 CRITS. And membership is selective: if you’d like to join, you’ll have to send in a short, 100- to 250-word writing sample based on a prompt.

Perfect if: You want some disciplined — but mutually encouraging — writing buddies to keep you honest as you build up a writing habit

10. Fiction Writers Global Facebook Group

Despite its name, this community welcomes writers of fiction and non-fiction alike, although those who work specialize in erotica are encouraged to find an alternative group. At 13 years old, it’s one of the longer-running writing communities on Facebook. The mods have laid down the law to ensure it continues to run smoothly: fundraising, self-promotion, and even memes are strictly banned.

If you’re still weighing the pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing , Fiction Writers Global might be the perfect group for you. They have members going both these routes who are always happy to share their experiences.

Perfect if: You’re determined to go the indie route — or thinking seriously about it

11. Hatrack River Writers Workshop

This 18+, members-only workshop was founded by renowned speculative fiction writer Orson Scott Card, of Ender’s Game fame , and it’s now hosted by short fiction writer Kathleen Dalton Woodbury. Both these writers cut their teeth on genre fiction, but don’t feel limited to tales of magic and spacefaring — anything goes, except for fanfic.

At the Hatrack River Writers Workshop , members can submit the first 13 lines of a WIP for review — an exercise designed to make sure the story hooks the reader as efficiently as possible . A loosely structured Writing Class forum offers prompts, called “assignments,” designed to help blocked writers start (or finish) stalled works.

Perfect if: You want to polish your story’s opening to a mirror-shine

12. Inked Voices

Unlike the cozy, Web 1.0 vibes of older online critique groups, Inked Voices is as sleek as they come, with cloud-based functionality and an elegant visual brand. Its polished look and feel make sense considering this isn’t so much a writing group as a platform for finding — or creating — writing groups, complete with a shiny workshopping app that has version control and calendar notifications built in.

Each workshop is private, invite-only, and capped at 8 members. You can sign up for a two-week free trial, but after that, the service costs $10 per month, or $75 for the year. Membership also lets you tune in for free to lectures by industry pros.

Perfect if: You’re willing to pay for an intimate, yet high-tech, workshop experience

13. Litopia

This website calls itself the “oldest writers’ colony on the ‘net,” a description that probably proves its age. One of its main draws? The writing groups that allow members to post their WIPs for peer review. The community tends to be friendly and mutually encouraging — probably the reason Litopia has lasted so long.

There’s another major draw: every Sunday, literary agent Peter Cox reviews several 700-word excerpts from members work on-air, in a podcast called Pop-Up Submissions. Cox tackles this process with a rotating cast of industry professionals as his guests. They’ve even been known to ask for a synopsis from a writer who impresses.

Perfect if: You’ve always wanted to spend some time in a writer’s colony, but you can’t jet off to Eureka Springs just yet

14. My Writers Circle

This easy-going discussion forum is light on dues and regulations, but members seem to be friendly and respectful anyway. A stickied thread on the Welcome Board encourages new members to read and comment on at least 3 pieces of writing before posting their own work for review. But this isn’t the kind of hard-and-fast rule that’ll lead to banning if you fall short. Members go along with it because they genuinely care about one another’s writing progress.

My Writers Circle has three dedicated workshop boards that allow forum users to seek feedback on their writing. One, called Review My Work, accepts general fiction and nonfiction, while additional spaces allow poets and dramatists of all kinds to get their verse, plays, and TV scripts critiqued.

Perfect if: You want a community where people are nice because they want to be — not because they have to be

15. Nathan Bransford - The Forums

Nathan Bransford worked as an agent before he switched over to the other side of the submissions process. Now, he’s a published middle-grade novelist and the author of a well-rated, self-published craft book called How to Write a Novel . In the midst of all his success, Bransford gives back to the literary community by running his ultra-popular Forums.

A board called Connect With a Critique Partner functions as matchmaker central for writers seeking their perfect beta readers. And if you’re not looking for something long-term, there’s the Excerpts forum, where you can post a bit of your WIP for quick hit of feedback.

Perfect if: You want to be part of a writing community that’s uber-active, but low-key

16. The Next Big Writer

Since 2005, this cult-favorite workshop has provided thousands of writers with a friendly forum for exchanging critiques. The site boasts an innovative points system designed to guarantee substantive, actionable feedback. To gain access, you’ll have to pay: $8.95 a month, $21.95 a quarter, or $69.95 for the whole year. Fortunately, there’s an opportunity to try before you buy: a 7-day free trial lets you get a taste of what the site has to offer.

The Next Big Writer also hosts periodic contests : grand prize winners receive $600 and professional critiques, while runners-up stand to gain $150 and 3 months of free membership. Meanwhile, all entrants get feedback on their submissions.

Perfect if: You like the sound of a members’ only writing contest with big prizes — in both cash and critique

17. NovelPro

This fiction writing workshop is one of the more costly online communities to join. But it has the rigor of an MFA program, at a tiny fraction of the price. Members — their numbers are capped at 50 — pay $120 a year. And that’s after a stringent application process requiring the first and last chapters of a finished, 60,000-word fiction manuscript and a 250-word blurb. Think of it as a bootcamp for your novel.

Even if an applicant’s writing sample passes muster, they still might not make the cut — there’s also a critique exercise that asks them to pass judgment on a sample novel chapter, with a 2-day turnaround. No wonder prospective NovelPro members are urged to reconsider unless their prose is “accomplished” and their fiction skills “advanced.”

Perfect if: You want a critique group that’ll take your work as seriously as you do

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18. Prolitfic

Launched by University of Texas students frustrated by the vagaries of the publishing process, this slick, Gen Z-friendly site encourages emerging writers to help each other out with thorough, actionable reviews. Members critique one another’s critiques — dare we call it metacritique? — to keep the quality of feedback high.

Prolitfic 's rating rubric, which assigns all submissions a star rating out of 5, insures that all reviewers are coming from the same place. Reviewers with higher levels of Spark, or site engagement, have their feedback weighted more heavily when the site calculates each submission’s overall rating.

Perfect if: You’re a serious, young writer hoping to find support in a tight-knit community built by your peers

19. Scribophile

One of the best-known writing communities on the web, Scribophile promises 3 insightful critiques for every piece of work you submit. Members earn the right to receive critiques by stocking up on karma points, which they can get by offering feedback on other works. You can get extra karma points by reacting to other users’ critiques — by clicking on Facebook-like buttons that say “thorough,” “constructive,” and the like — and by having your critiques showered with positive reactions.

A free membership lets you put two 3,000-word pieces up for critique, while premium memberships won’t throttle your output — but will cost you either $9 per month or $65 for the year.

Perfect if: You’d like to play with a critique system that has shades of Reddit — but far more civil!

20. SheWrites Groups

This long-standing community for writing women boasts a treasure trove of craft-focused articles. But the site also hosts a wealth of writing groups, split into genres and topics. Whether they work on screenplays, horror novels , or depictions of the environment, women writers can find a group to post their work for feedback — and commiserate on the travails of writing life.

In addition to their articles and writing groups, She Writes also operates a hybrid publishing company that distributes through Ingram and, naturally, brings women’s writing into the light.

Perfect if: You’re a woman writer in search of a friendly community full of like-minded, mutually encouraging folks

21. Sub It Club

Gearing up to submit finished work can be even more daunting than writing it in the first place. If you’d like to get some friendly eyes on your query letters or pitches — in a virtual walled garden away from any agents or publishers — this closed Facebook group might be the perfect place for you.

If you’re in need of more than a one-off review, Sub It Club runs a Critique Partner Matchup group to pair off writing buddies. The group moderators also run a blog with plenty of tips on crafting cover letters, dealing with rejection, and all other parts of the submission process .

Perfect if: You want a private, low-stress setting to get some feedback and vent about life as a yet-to-be-published writer

22. WritersCafe.org

This sizable — but friendly! — community boasts over 800,000 users, all of whom can access its critique forums for free. Members offer feedback to one another at all stages of the writing process: from proofing near-finished pieces to leaving more substantive feedback for still-marinating works.

For more quantitative-minded scribblers, WritersCafe ’s graphs make it easy to visualize how their work is being received. The site also allows members to host their own writing contests — and even courses to share their expertise with fellow Cafe patrons.

Perfect if: You’re a visual, data-driven writer who prefers to think in charts — even when it comes to writing!

23. Writer’s Digest Critique Central

Writer’s Digest is an institution in the literary world, and its critique forum is as popular as you’d expect: it’s collected more than 10,000 threads and nearly 90,000 individual posts over the years.

Critique Central boasts dedicated boards for a variety of genres — poetry is the most popular, with literary fiction next in line. You can also find spaces dedicated to polishing query letters and synopses, and a board that aggregates critique guidelines to make sure every member is giving — and getting — the best feedback possible.

Perfect if: You’d like a one-stop shop for critiquing your WIPs, queries, and synopses

24. The Writers Match

Founded by a veteran children’s book author, The Writers Match aims to, well, match writers with their comrades-in-craft from around the world. Think of it as okCupid for critique partners. Just fill out a profile and then shop for matches on the Members page, where writers will be sorted according to experience and genre.

If you find any promising would-be partners, shoot them a message and see if the literary sparks fly. And if it turns out you don’t quite vibe, there are plenty of other fish in the sea of critique.

Perfect if: You live somewhere without a robust writing community, and you’re tired of missing out

25. Writers World Facebook Group

Founded by veteran editor and sci-fi author Randall Andrews, this critique group welcomes serious writers of book-length prose. Members aim to shepherd each other’s manuscripts through all stages of the publication process, from the developmental edit to the query.

Andrews himself remains heavily involved in Writers World ’s day-to-day activity, pitching in with critiques informed by his 30 years of experience in the publishing industry. He’s also happy to explain his comments, and weighs in periodically with links to useful resources on craft.

Perfect if: You’ve got a book in the works, and you’re in the market for a critique group headed by a mentor who’s extremely generous with his time

26. Writing.Com

This sprawling community has been a meeting point for writers of all levels since 2000, whether their goals are to be published in a top-shelf literary magazine or to score an A in English Composition. Writing.Com users, who work in every genre under the sun, make use of the site’s portfolio system to post their writing and seek feedback from fellow community members.

Free memberships allow users to store up to 10 items in their personal portfolio, while the various tiers of paid membership gradually increase the limit — starting at the 50 items afforded by the $19.95 per year Basic Membership.

Perfect if: You want to be part of an enormous community where you’re sure to encounter a diversity of viewpoints

27. Writing, Prompts & Critiques Facebook Group

Writing, Prompts & Critiques is pretty much exactly what it says on the tin. Members seek critique on posted threads and can also comment on one another’s responses to the group’s daily writing exercises.

Speaking of which: unlike conventional writing prompts, which encourage you to write new work, WPC’s daily challenges try to get you thinking more deeply about your existing projects. So come with a manuscript in hand, and see if the folks here can’t help you make it even better.

Perfect if: You’d like to get some feedback on a WIP — and experiment with some writing exercises to refine it

28. Writing to Publish

This 25-year-old critique group might have an American flag gif on its homepage, but its membership is worldwide. Writing to Publish members meet live in a chat room every other Monday at 7 PM Pacific time — which the website helpfully specifies is lunchtime on Tuesday for Australians.

New members have trial status until they’ve sat in on a handful of live-chat sessions, after which point they can start offering critiques themselves. Only after two critiques can they become full-fledged members, with the ability to submit their own work for review. Discussion tends to be lively and honest — but unfailingly polite.

Perfect if: You want your critique circle to operate in real-time — even if it includes folks from all over the world

29. YeahWrite

This writing community’s home page describes it as “part workshop, part competition, and all focused on getting from where you are to where you want to be as a writer.” Its biggest claim to fame? Free weekly writing challenges in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, where writers submit 750-word pieces in response to curated writing prompts.

If you fancy more concentrated feedback than the weekly challenges can give you, YeahWrite also offers paid editorial evaluations — one for $25 a year or two for $50. Send a 1,000-word piece of writing for review, and an editorial staff member will get back to you with a developmental edit or a line edit, depending on your manuscript’s needs.

Perfect if: You find that nothing sparks your creativity energies more than a good writing prompt

30. YouWriteOn

[update 4 Feb 2022: YouWriteOn seems to be temporarily inaccessible]

This free service boasts Bloomsbury and Penguin Random House reps among its members. So if you join and upload a story or chapter, you stand a chance of getting some very discerning eyes on your work. With such powerful people roaming the joint, it’s no wonder that some first-time authors have been discovered through YouWriteOn: historical fiction writer Doug Jackson, for instance, sold his Roman epic Caligula to Penguin through the forum.

Reviews come in one at a time and assign each piece a star rating in 8 different categories: characters, story, pace and structure, use of language, narrative voice, dialogue, settings, and themes and ideas.

Perfect if: You want some Big Five eyes on your work, in a supportive, low-stakes setting

GENRE-SPECIFIC CRITIQUE GROUPS

31. Allpoetry

This poetry site allows free members to join a writing group and post their verse for review, while premium members can use it to host their own private writing critique groups. A silver membership, for $5.95 a month, allows you to form a group, while a $14.95 gold membership provides analytics to track your visitors.

Allpoetry boasts 238 currently active groups — the biggest weighing in at 50 members while the smallest hover around 6 or 7 members. The site also offers free, self-paced poetry classes for beginners to the craft, on topics ranging from sonnets to beating writer’s block .

Perfect if: You’re a poet who wants the ability to choose between several critique groups of various sizes

32. Chronicles Science Fiction & Fantasy Community

This sleekly designed forum is primarily a fandom space — a thriving community for dissecting the works of your favorite speculative fiction authors. But Chronicles also operates a suite of craft-focused forums for sci-fi and fantasy fans who double as writers themselves.

The Chronicles Workshop forum hosts frequent, 100-word writing challenges that combine a theme and a genre, say “Crime & Punishment” and “Urban Fantasy.” Members tend to respond to these with enthusiasm, but they also have the option of posting their own, freestanding work for review in the writing circle.

Perfect if: You’re both a speculative fiction writer and a speculative fiction reader, and you want a community that can indulge both your inner creator and your inner fan

33. Critters Workshop

A passion project run by a former VP of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Critters has been helping authors polish their sci-fi, fantasy, and horror for almost a quarter century. The workshop is a space for serious writers, whether they’ve been showered with accolades or are still unpublished.

Critters stands out for treating critique itself as a craft deserving of careful attention. Participants learn to read with both acumen and empathy, offering substantive, yet tactfully framed criticisms of one another’s work. To remain in good standing, every “critter” writes an average of one critique a week.

Perfect if: You’re willing to learn the art of constructive criticism — and eager to get 15-20 thoughtful responses for each piece of writing they submit

34. Critique.org Workshops

The Critique.org workshops act as an expansion of Critters — including 16 furthers genres and media. The resulting spin-offs cover every form of writing you can think of, from thrillers to screenplays. Some are more highly trafficked than others, but all of them echo Critters’ dedication to the art of critique.

Multi-genre writers who work on, say, both romance and thrillers have to sign up separately for every workshop they’re interested in.

Perfect if: You like the sound of Critters but don’t like the idea of writing sci-fi, fantasy, or horror

35. Eratosphere

This online workshop might be named for the muse of love poetry, but versifiers working on all subjects are welcome to post. Eratosphere isn’t for the faint of heart: the site’s guidelines stress high standards of craft and emphasize that the forums might not be suitable for beginners or “those who mainly seek mutual support and praise.” But if you’re a practiced poet serious about refining your craft, you won’t find a more knowledgeable workshop.

The site is especially helpful for poets specializing in metrical verse forms. Poets who already produce polished, near-publishable work can make use of The Deep End, a forum tailor-made for metrical poetry gurus thick-skinned enough to deal with intense — but constructive — critique.

Perfect if: You’re an experienced poet eager for gimlet-eyed critique

36. FaithWriters

This online hub for writers of faith operates a Christian Writing Critique Circle. Unlike many groups with more stringent requirements, members only need to submit one critique for every piece of writing they put out for feedback. The FaithWriters moderators occasionally pay professional editors to come in and review pieces that haven’t gotten enough love from members-at-large. So there’s no fear that your work will remain forlorn and ignored.

Writers too pressed for time to offer critiques can pay in cash for the ability to receive feedback. FaithWriters limits submissions to 1,000 words each, and allows every member 4 per month.

Perfect if: You’re a Christian writer who’d appreciate a guarantee of feedback from your critique group

37. Fantasy & Science Fiction Writers in America Facebook Group

This group for serious, craft-focused speculative fiction writers actually welcomes members from all over the world, as long as they write in English. Members post small excerpts from their work for critique, but they also like to swap trade secrets — about both the craft and business sides of writing life.

Because Fantasy & Science Fiction Writers in America welcomes writers of all ages, members need to keep it PG-13. The four admins keep an eye on things to make sure the discussion stays civil and safe for work.

Perfect if: You’re an aspiring sci-fi or fantasy author not interested in smut or gore

38. Fiction Writing Facebook Group

This 90,000-member Facebook group is moderated by a triumvirate of published authors who’ve banded together to create a space where their fellow writers can swap WIPs. The moderators run a tight ship in terms of hate speech, bullying, and spam, and the resulting community is full of serious writers despite its daunting size.

Fiction Writing members can share the occasional bit of verse in the dedicated #poetry thread, but for the most part, the focus is on short stories and novel excerpts. The moderators also make occasional postings drawing the community’s attention to publishing opportunities, usually in the anthology series they help curate.

Perfect if: You want to dive into a community where you won’t be subjected to endless self-promotion or straight-up hate speech

39. Historical Novel Society Manuscript Facebook Group

This closed Facebook group provides dues-paying members of the Historical Novel Society with a private space to get into the weeds of mutual critique. Manuscript Facebook Group members can, of course, post their manuscripts for general review. They can also use the group to find long-term critique partners.

Membership in the Historical Novel Society costs $50 per year and nets you a free subscription to the Historical Novel Review , a listing in the group’s directory, and notification of the many conferences and colloquia it hosts every year. In addition to its manuscript critique group, the HNS also operates a more general Facebook group where members swap research tips and writing inspiration.

Perfect if: You’re serious about bringing the past to life by writing top-notch historical fiction

40. The Internet Writing Workshop

This site aggregates several genre-specific mailing lists that allow writers to submit their own work and critique one another’s. Dedicated lists for short fiction, book-length projects, romance, poetry, and YA ensure almost every author can find a place to get feedback. Another list dedicated to writing exercises encourages members to respond to weekly prompts — and critique each other’s responses.

To remain in good standing as an Internet Writing Workshop member, you’ll have to commit to a minimum participation requirement. But it’s a pretty modest one, coming down to only half an hour a week. The workshop also runs an active writing advice blog that dates back to 2007.

Perfect if: You want a free, email-based workshop with pretty light participation requirements

41. Kingdom Writers

This email-based critique list provides a home on the internet for Christian writers, both published and unpublished. While encouraged to post work explicitly aimed at their faith community, members can also share more secular writings — as long as they’re PG-13. Civility is a must: works criticizing other religions won’t be tolerated.

Thanks to their fellow Kingdom Writers ’ critiques, participants in this online fellowship have managed to publish a number of books, from devotional texts and Bible trivia to romance and historical fiction.

Perfect if: You’re a Christian writer hoping to join a tight-knit community where you won’t encounter anything NSFW

42. Mystery Writers Forum

This forum for latter-day Arthur Conan Doyles has been around since 1997. With nearly one thousand members roaming its 22 discussion boards, it’s nothing short of an institution.

Still, mystery writers of all kinds can patrol the Writing Advice forum in search of genre-savvy critique partners. There’s plenty more to explore. Whether you’re interested in nailing down the elements of a cozy mystery or confused about how courtroom procedure should work in your trial scene, the Mystery Writers Forum will have something to point you in the right direction.

Perfect if: You have some very specific burning questions that only a fellow mystery buff can answer

43. Online Writing Workshop for Science, Fantasy and Horror

This genre writers’ paradise has a modest price for entry. After a month-long free trial, members pay $49 a year for access to the site’s critique group. But the workshop also operates a scholarship fund for writers having trouble making ends meet. Both agents and publishers keep an eye on submissions through free professional memberships, so a discerning, influential eye just might fall on your manuscript.

Submissions are limited to 7,000 words each, and members of the Online Writing Workshop are required to review if they want to be reviewed. Plenty have found success through the workshop, winning Hugos and scoring Big Five contracts.

Perfect if: You don’t mind paying in exchange for access to a genre-savvy community where some agents and publishers tend to lurk

Speaking of scholarships, if you're a student scraping together tuition, why not apply to writing scholarships to supplement your funds?

44. The Poetry Free-for-All

This online workshop encourages poets to work seriously towards the refinement of their craft, by embracing constructive criticism and learning to offer it in turn. As is standard among critique groups, members have to provide 3 reviews for every piece they submit for feedback.

The Poetry Free-for-All is an offshoot of EveryPoet.com, an archive of poetry designed to instill a love of verse in all visitors. Whether your posting your own verse for critique or browsing through the classics — from Chaucer to Edna St. Vincent Millay — you can easily lose a couple of hours on this site.

Perfect if: You’re a poet who’s serious about your craft, but you want a workshop that’s less structured than some of the other options out there

45. Romance Critters Yahoo Group

This 18+ Yahoo group has been helping serious romance writers refine their craft since 1998. They’ll look at squeaky-clean teen romances, bona fide erotica, and anything in between , where’s it’s historical or set in outer space. However, you’ll have to apply to get access to the community.

Romance Critters members submit a chapter at a time for review — and only once they’ve submitted 2 critiques of other pieces. Ten full critiques can also earn you an in-depth beta read.

Perfect if: You want some well-trained eyes on your meet-cutes — or your sex scenes

46. Screech Poetry Magazine

Despite its name, this isn’t so much a publication as an open forum for posting and critiquing poetry. Think of it as a democratic, crowd-sourced compendium of contemporary verse.

Occasional writing contests tempt entrants with the promise of Amazon vouchers. But for the most part, Screech emphasizes open-hearted sharing over competition. The community has a collective soft spot for Japanese verse forms, from the humble haiku to the lesser-known renga. But poetry of all kinds is welcome, from the the kid-friendly to the NSFW.

Perfect if: You like to experiment with Japanese verse forms and want a critique group that takes them seriously

47. Seekerville

In 2004, 15 women writers with big dreams met at the American Christian Fiction Writers annual conference. Seven years later, all 15 of them had snagged book deals. Now, they run the Seekerville blog to pass their tips on to the next generation of Christian authors.

The Seekerville ladies host periodic Open Critique Days, where they offer feedback on short passages posted by their devoted readership. The most recent one yielded 105 comments.

Perfect if: You’re a Christian woman writer wanting mentorship from some warm-hearted authors who’ve been there before

48. SwoonReads

This YA-focused writing community is owned by Macmillan, one of the storied Big Five publishers. Still, its business model is far from traditional. For one thing, it’s also a publishing imprint. Aspiring authors upload unpublished manuscripts for community members to rate and review — all in the interest of helping Macmillan sniff out the next The Fault in Our Stars or To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before .

SwoonReads accepts YA manuscripts of all kinds, from contemporary romance to supernatural horror. Authors chosen for publication receive a $10,000 advance. Those who find their manuscripts passed over are welcome to revise and resubmit.

Perfect if: You’re a YA novelist dreaming of a Big Five book deal

49. Women’s Fiction Writers Association

This professional association caters to writers of women’s fiction — mostly, though not necessarily, women themselves. According to the group’s homepage, the important thing is that members’ work centers on a well-developed character’s transformative emotional journey. Membership costs $48 a year, but gives you access to a number of perks. In addition to an annual retreat and periodic online pitch sessions — where members can, well, pitch potential agents — the Women's Fiction Writers Association runs two critique programs.

The WFWA Critique Forum Facebook Page allows dues-paying members to swap loglines, query letters, and synopses for feedback, or find fellow writers to arrange manuscript swaps. There’s also the WFWA’s Critique Group Matching Service, where organization leaders break match up interested members based on their interests.

Perfect if: You write emotionally intricate, character-driven fiction

Do you have a go-to writing circle for helpful critiques? Tell us about it in the comments below!

5 responses

Robin Gaster says:

11/09/2019 – 16:39

fascinating that you found almost nothing on nonfiction

11/09/2019 – 22:28

A lot of forum and email based groups along with Facebook. If you only have the online ones that actually workshop the manuscript it will drop down to maybe a 16-17. That does include several closed/not for public groups.

Gregory A. De Feo says:

11/09/2019 – 23:26

Did you hear of www.writersvillage.com? What's your opinion of it, if so?

Ned Marcus says:

18/09/2019 – 00:19

Thanks for the list. It looks good. One other point. You don't need to live in a literary hub to find fellow writers—as long as you do live in a city, you'll probably find other writers. Starting your own critique/writers group can be very productive. It's worked very well for me, even though at the beginning I didn't know what I was doing. I asked an experienced writer and workshop regular (from another city), followed the advice, adjusted it, and now I have a great group with really talented writers as members. It took a few years, but it was worth it.

Bev Hanna says:

20/09/2019 – 18:02

Do you know of any critique forums for memoir and autobiography?

Comments are currently closed.

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Creative writing workshops can take your writing to the next level. The chance to experiment with your writing in a community is invaluable, and getting live feedback on your work will propel you through your writing career. But with so many online writing workshops out there, how can you tell which ones are worth taking?

There are plenty of writing workshops where writers get less than what they bargained for. Finding the right group of writers to workshop with is a slow process—no different than dating or finding a therapist. Where can you find the best online writing workshops for you?

Consider this your go-to guide for navigating the internet of online creative writing workshops. We’ll talk about different workshopping models and how they might work for you, and we’ll also look at how to get the most from your fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing workshops.

But first, we ought to define this particularly nebulous aspect of creative writing education. What is a creative writing workshop?

Looking for the best online writing workshops?

If you’re looking for the best online writing workshops, look no further. Writers.com has been running online creative writing workshops since 1995. View our upcoming calendar to view the best writing workshops for you!

You can also navigate our courses by category:

• Short Story
• Personal Essay
• Lifestyle and Wellness
• Single-Day Zoom Sessions

What is a Writing Workshop?

People use the phrase “writing workshop” differently in different contexts, although it’s a rather vague term that writers use inconsistently. Here are some common ways you might see the term used:

• Online , a workshop is a complete writing course, including both lecture materials and opportunities for feedback from fellow students.
• In universities and MFA programs , a workshop is the aspect of a writing workshop where students give feedback to one another to improve their writing overall.
• At some online writing schools , a workshop is specifically a single-day Zoom-based workshop.

That said, “writing workshop” is a rather nebulous term that has a lot of applications. A workshop is any space where writers come to grow as writers. In short, a writing workshop is an open-ended term that describes different styles of creative writing education.

What is a writing workshop? An open-ended term that describes different styles of creative writing education.

For the purposes of this article, we are addressing multi-week online writing classes, as well as single-day webinars that have a workshopping component. Basically, we’re looking at any type of online learning space where students share their work, receive feedback, build new craft skills, and engage with a writing community.

Here’s what online writing workshops might look like, as well as tips for finding the best ones!

12 Things to Look For In the Best Online Creative Writing Workshops

Are you thinking about enrolling in a creative writing workshop? The best online writing workshops have these 12 things in common:

1. The Best Online Writing Workshops Have Well Respected Teachers

At most online writing schools, the instructor is the person who sets the syllabus, writes the workshop, and gives feedback to students. As a result, a good writing teacher makes all the difference in online writing workshops.

You want to be excited to learn from an instructor.

In addition to being a great writer and teacher, a great workshop instructor will be community-oriented, empathetic, and capable of tailoring their teaching to your writing needs.

Before you enroll in a writing workshop, do some research on the writer teaching it. Most professional writers and teachers will have a website, where you can peruse their work, degrees, and teaching history.

Some questions you might ask:

• Does the instructor have a terminal degree? (M.A., M.F.A., Ph.D., etc.)
• What do prior students say about this instructor?
• Does the instructor have a significant publication history?

On terminal degrees—they’re not necessary for running good creative writing workshops. But, they do indicate a certain level of craft training and teaching experience. Many terminal degree programs require students to learn how to teach creative writing. While you don’t need an M.F.A or Ph.D. to publish or teach writing, they certainly help.

Most importantly: are you excited about this instructor’s work? Do you like it? Do you connect with it? You want to be excited to learn from an instructor. They’re not just teaching craft, they’re teaching you their approach to crafting good writing.

2. The Best Online Writing Workshops Have a Clear Description

Enrolling in creative writing workshops involves a certain level of trust. If you haven’t taken a class with the organization before, you might not know how they run their classes or what you’ll get out of working with them. Writing programs should honor their side of the bargain by telling you exactly what you’ll get from their writing workshops.

Writing programs should honor their side of the bargain by telling you exactly what you’ll get from their writing workshops.

The descriptions for online writing workshops should tell you the following:

• What will you learn and write during the workshop?
• Who’s teaching the workshop, and what have they accomplished?
• How will your time be spent while taking the workshop?
• Who is this for? At what stage of your writing should you be in?

It helps to know what you’re looking for from your workshop. If you have certain goals in mind or ways you want to grow as a writer, be clear about these goals, and don’t spend money on workshops that simply won’t fit your needs. (That said, it can also be fun to enroll in random workshops and learn new writing skills—you’d be surprised what you’ll learn from a class that has nothing to do with your projects.)

If the description of the writing workshop aligns with your goals and needs, it should be a good fit. And, if you’re on the fence, it never hurts to ask the program administrators before you enroll. They’ll be glad to hear from you!

3. The Best Online Writing Workshops Prioritize the Student

Creative writing workshops place your experience front and center. The goal of a workshop is to expand your learning, work, and writing journey. If a writing course doesn’t promise to uplift your writing life, why would you take it?

If a writing course doesn’t promise to uplift your writing life, why would you take it?

A good writing school will acknowledge the risk involved in taking an adult writing workshop. Since online schools can’t confer college credit, and since you probably haven’t interacted with the workshop instructor before, you’re spending your time and money on a program that you haven’t used before.

So, why wouldn’t that school prioritize you ? You want to be confident that your writing, your creativity, and your time will be valued, otherwise you’re wasting your money on an experience you hardly learned from.

Check to see if the program itself has a student promise before you enroll in their writing workshops. If it doesn’t seem like the school will center your learning and growth as a writer, don’t take the risk—there are plenty of other schools to choose from.

4. The Best Online Writing Workshops Give Constructive Feedback

The feedback you receive in creative writing workshops will often prove the most valuable aspect of the course. Because most workshops are run by writers with Masters or Doctoral degrees, they’ve spent a fair amount of time giving and receiving feedback in competitive and community settings. As a result, they know a ton about the craft skills that make for good literature, and they know how to transmit those skills to their students.

Most importantly, a good writing instructor will tell you what you’re doing well in your writing.

The feedback you receive in online writing workshops will vary by the scope of the workshops and the backgrounds of the instructors. You might receive feedback on:

• Where the writing is effective
• Word choice that isn’t clear to the reader
• Ideas that can be expanded or shortened
• Sentences that are too long or too short
• Corrections in spelling and grammar
• Opportunities to improve the writing structure
• Feedback related to the elements of fiction , nonfiction, or poetry

Most importantly, a good writing instructor will tell you what you’re doing well in your writing. When you write a really great simile , have well developed characters , or find a moment of deep insight, your instructor will highlight this.

While it’s good to know what needs to be improved, writers can’t begin to improve until they also know what works in their poems and stories. This is how you build a foundation for good writing: start with what works, and sculpt from there. Writing workshops are the best spaces to build this foundation!

5. The Best Online Writing Workshops Focus on Craft

The best online writing workshops are centered around the craft of writing. Unlike English and composition classes, which focus on grammar, literacy, and the mechanics of language, creative writing workshops look at using these mechanics to write compelling, effective stories. And, in a writing workshop, you don’t just use the rules, you get to break them!

In a writing workshop, you don’t just use the rules, you get to break them.

The craft elements you focus on will vary based on the kind of course you’re in. If you’re taking poetry writing workshops, for example, you’ll focus on employing effective literary devices and studying different forms of poetry .

Likewise, in novel writing workshops, you might study elements like plot , point of view , and the art of storytelling .

Good writing workshops will break down great literature into the components that make it great, allowing you to read like a writer and employ these craft skills in your own work. And, learning the craft of creative writing helps you with everyday tasks, like sending emails or expanding your vocabulary.

6. The Best Online Writing Workshops Respect Your Creativity

The workshop is a space of unfettered creativity. Writers get to share their ideas, their experiences, and their creative, collaborative minds in the same space, making workshops the place to experiment with ideas. Of course, this is only possible if the workshop respects your creative authority.

We don’t “earn” the title of “writer,” we simply are writers, and a good writing course will uphold your integrity and creative vision, no matter where you are in your writing journey.

What does respect for your creative authority mean? It means that no one judges, criticizes, or condemns you for your writing and ideas. The best writing workshops will:

• Help you explore your ideas, rather than impose ideas upon you.
• Teach you the ropes of writing craft without telling you what to write.
• Show you what you’re already doing well in your work.
• Point out opportunities where the writing can be expanded, restructured, or clarified—in ways that help you carry out your creative vision.

Most importantly, this is true no matter how “new” you are to creative writing workshops . Whether you’ve submitted the first poem you’ve ever written or your thousandth, you deserve the same level of respect as everyone else in the room. We don’t “earn” the title of “writer,” we simply are writers, and a good writing course will uphold your integrity and creative vision, no matter where you are in your writing journey.

In a writing workshop, you may encounter many different ideas, but you also encounter the freedom to accept or reject those ideas. It’s your writing. You get the final say!

7. The Best Online Writing Workshops Create Community

What is a writing workshop without community? Writing can be a lonely practice, but a writing community makes all the difference. The best creative writing workshops foster a sense of community. In fact, many writers have come away from our courses with friends and writing partnerships that last for years and years!

A writing community can give you the motivation to create, the license to experiment, and the potential to learn even more about the craft of writing.

A writing community can give you the motivation to create, the license to experiment, and the potential to learn even more about the craft of writing. Because we all have very different literary backgrounds, we all have studied different authors and elements of the writing craft. When we write in a community, we naturally share what we’ve learned with one another, creating a culture of growth and inspiration.

Additionally, a strong writing community creates valuable feedback. When you write alongside people who know and enjoy your work, it is much easier to give and receive feedback, especially when these writers know what you’re trying to accomplish.

Many well-known authors throughout history have been a part of valuable writing communities, such as The Beat Poets, Stratford-on-Odeon, and these famous writing groups . Writing doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and when you enroll in community-oriented online writing workshops, you foster the kinds of relationships and connections that can sustain your literary career.

8. The Best Online Writing Workshops Motivate You to Write

Because writing is often solitary, it can be hard to motivate yourself to get work done. Taking online writing workshops pushes you to put words on the page.

Sometimes, the biggest barrier is beginning, but creative writing workshops will spark your writing practice.

For one thing, these classes cost money, and when you’re spending money to write and learn about writing, you’re more likely to actually write and learn about writing.

But, it’s not just the monetary transaction that motivates writers in adult writing workshops. Your course might provide you with:

• Creative writing prompts
• Daily journaling assignments
• Helpful revisions
• Inspirational readings
• Ideas to combat writer’s block
• Different approaches to writing

Some writing workshops are even designed to motivate you, such as our class Write Your Novel! The Workshop With Jack . Sometimes, the biggest barrier is beginning, but creative writing workshops will spark your writing practice.

9. The Best Online Writing Workshops Jumpstart a Writing Habit

Because writing workshops require you to submit work every week, students will have to set up a consistent writing practice in order to meet these deadlines. Not only does this prepare you for your life as a published author (where deadlines are less flexible), but this also helps you master a key aspect of the writing life: a consistent writing habit.

To make the most of creative writing workshops, try to find time to write every day.

Writing every day isn’t just good advice, it’s essential to building a writing life. Writers who want to build careers out of their work, or at the very least publish books some day, will have to dedicate time every day to their work. When you engage with language each day, you build the skills necessary to write good books, and you also keep yourself creatively motivated. This is true especially for the days that are hardest to write on.

Of course, most of us lead very busy lives. How do we steal time as artists? Here are some ideas:

• Write with your morning coffee.
• Keep a journal on your phone during work and lunch breaks.
• Write on your commute to and from work. If you’re driving, keep an audio journal, where you write by speaking into your phone’s recorder.
• Write on your phone while running on the treadmill.
• Put pen to paper while taking a bath.
• Journal for 15 minutes before you go to bed.

These ideas won’t work for everyone, and it all depends on your schedule and lifestyle. Nonetheless, to make the most of creative writing workshops, try to find time to write every day. It’s best to write at the same time every day, but if your schedule doesn’t allow this, sneak time wherever you can. Balancing a career, a family, and a writing life isn’t easy, but when the work calls, you’ll find time to answer!

10. The Best Online Writing Workshops Broaden Your Literary Horizons

As writers, it’s important for us to know our literary history. Now, this doesn’t mean you need to read every piece of classic literature to start writing—in fact, many books published in the 19th century could never be published today.

If you want to publish your own work some day, it’s important to know what else is being published today.

But it does mean knowing the craft skills that went into both classic and contemporary books. It especially means having a sense of the contemporary literary zeitgeist. If you want to publish your own work some day, it’s important to know what else is being published today.

The best creative writing workshops broaden your literary horizons. When you read classic literature, you get a sense of the foundations of contemporary writing, and the ways that writers before us expanded the possibilities of literature as a whole. When you read contemporary literature, you get a sense of today’s publishing landscape and what people are looking for in the writings of today.

(If you plan to publish books by querying literary agents , reading contemporary work is crucial, because you need to have good comps in your query letter . Comps are books that have been published recently and are similar, in some ways, to your own.)

Now, this doesn’t mean you need to write like other authors. In fact, far from it. It’s better that you learn to write like yourself , because your most valuable asset as a writer is your voice. But, when you expand your literary horizons, you engage with literature and make decisions on what you do and don’t want to do in your work.

What do you like to read? What do you want to never read again? The more you read, the more you hone your own voice as a writer. Great writing workshops introduce you to literature that provokes these kinds of questions.

11. The Best Online Writing Workshops Provide a Creative Outlet

One of the best reasons to take online writing workshops is that they give you an outlet for feelings and creativity.

Writing workshops are a great supplement to a healthy writer’s life.

This is the result of the various reasons listed above for taking writing classes. By building community, creating a writing practice, and engaging with literature, you inevitably nourish your creativity. In doing so, you nurture a healthy space to explore your ideas and emotions—an essential aspect of any writer’s life.

Now, even the best online writing workshops can’t replace the benefits of therapy. We’re not saying you should ditch your therapist for a Writers.com class. But we are saying that writing workshops are a great supplement to a healthy writer’s life, because they create safe spaces for you to experiment with your work and explore your emotions freely on the page.

This is true even for writers of genre fiction or persona poetry. It’s true for participants in fiction writing workshops and memoir writing workshops. We gravitate to writing in part for its emotional release, and a great online class in creative writing will nurture this release. Between the prompts, community, and writing habits that a creative writing workshop fosters, you’re sure to come away from your workshop with renewed emotional health.

12. The Best Online Writing Workshops Provide Next Steps

The best creative writing workshops are the beginning of your writing life, not the end. When your workshop ends, you should come away with new ideas for writing, new publication opportunities to pursue, and new friends and mentors to nurture your writing journey.

The best creative writing workshops are the beginning of your writing life, not the end.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll find new opportunities for continuous growth. You might find a list of literary journals to submit to, new readings to stimulate your writing, further creative writing workshops to attend, or simply the emails and social media accounts of students you really enjoyed working with.

If you’re ready to move on to the next level of your writing, your instructor will provide you with next steps. And, if you want to learn more outside of the classroom, contact the instructor about this. We’re always excited by writers who want to keep learning and learning!

The Best Online Writing Workshops

Of course, we’re partial to our own workshops at Writers.com . Since 1995 we’ve offered the best fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and book writing workshops around the internet, inspiring thousands of writers to embark on their writing journeys, find their voices, and get published.

We offer both single-day webinars and multi-week workshops in all genres, and also offer opportunities for private coaching with our instructors. If you’re looking for the best, you’ve already found it. Drop us a line if you have any questions!

Check out our full schedule of upcoming classes here.

In addition to Writers.com, here are some online writing workshops that we’ve found offer fantastic creative writing education:

• Loft Literary
• Brooklyn Poets
• Creative Nonfiction

In Creative Writing Workshops…

You get to find great literature, meet fellow scribblers, build a writing habit, and, most importantly, take your writing journey to the next level. Why wait? Enroll in an online writing workshop today!

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Thanks for the information it’s really enlightening

So glad I found this writing site. I have more exploring to do. I’m sure I will be back.

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• Mar 18, 2020

Top 10 Online Writing Communities to Perfect Your Craft

Whatever type of writer you are, you could use some company. Personally, I only sit with a group of wordsmiths and get letters onto paper a couple of times during the year. In a bid to hone my craft, I’ve been participating in text conversations all over the web in online writing communities. These dedicated forums for writers enrich my content and daily life in many ways, whether it’s finding motivation to keep prose flowing, getting help to build characters, or simply improving my style.

I also found that these online writing groups are among the best places for getting ideas out there. To begin, introduce yourself in the forums, respond to comments and suggest new ideas. You’ll quickly link with people who will push your vocab, views and verbal reasoning. Most importantly of all, use discussion to escape from the mundane while making your writing exquisite.

Keep in mind that these writing forums have different target audiences. From this article, you’ll get an inkling of the main characteristics of each community. The next thing you should do is go and participate in the discussions, to see which one is right for you.

So, stick with me as I narrate you through the top online writing communities for authors of all levels, genres and styles:

Writing Forums

Mythic Scribes

Writing about Writing

Writing Prompts

Writers Anonymous

Critique Circle

Bonus: Start your own writing community

01. Writing Forums

Best for: Writers who want to improve their skills.

This is one of the best places to connect with other writers. 22,551 (and counting) literati of all abilities exchange tips and engage in discussions about writing techniques. If you’re in the mood for a natter, simply jump into the various topics up for debate, suggest your original ideas and respond to copy concepts. If you’re more of the emulous type, you’ll find it exciting to join contests that motivate and build your skill levels.

But the most glorious aspect of Writing Forums really is the palpable sense of solidarity. Swapping reviews is popular practice between members. You’ll get lots of actionable feedback from word-loving comrades. What’s more, this community is supported by mentors who have an important responsibility in the social hierarchy. To see who your own private group of helpers could be, check out the people in the Mentor Directory - a golden resource for finding the right person to appraise your words.

02. Mythic Scribes

Best for: Fantasy authors and rambling Game of Thrones fans.

Ready to bring folkloric elements to your writing life? If you’re a fantasy author, or remotely interested in anything magical, I strongly recommend joining the Mythic Scribes forum. You’ll get to discuss all aspects of building your legendary world, from the intricacies of ergot mixed with mead, to the detailed origins of dragons. There’s an open-minded forum atmosphere, where people freely roam imaginary realms and discuss historical research.

On signup, you’re prompted to create five posts - an engagement trick that worked well for me, because moderators quickly replied to my initial messages and got me talking. The mods are working hard to make writing easier and more enjoyable. Seriously, you’ll be improving your writing every time you post. As an added bonus, the website has a fairly quiet chat room, meaning you can have a coherent chin-wag, without getting swamped with a bombardment of banter or annoying notifications.

03. She Writes

Best for: Self-published female authors looking for business tips.

Joining She Writes is an indispensable career move for female authors who want to develop a professional network or get advice. Even though the organisation’s aim is to support women writers, you don’t have to be a lady to sign up. In fact, anyone can make the most of the science shared within the chats.

To get deeper into discussions about different writing styles , start joining the groups. You’ll find that disseminating practical writing knowledge is this community’s strength. Perhaps you need some pointers on how to get an agent? Tips regarding marketing your work? Or guidance whilst writing a memoir? This is the place to ask your questions and link up with successful fictionistas, inspired poetesses and freelancing ghostwriters. Take a look at the site members for a who’s who and you will see a clan of women who can help you along your writing journey.

04. NaNoWriMo

Best for : Procrastinating novelists needing a bit of motivation.

This community is based around the annual challenge of writing a 50,000 word novel during the month of November - hence NaNoWriMo , which is not the name of a waggish Star Wars droid, but the abbreviation of “National Novel Writing Month”. However, chats in this forum are not limited to one month. All year round, you can plan your next novel and make notes, with help from other members. It became so popular that many of the other writing communities have multiple threads devoted to NaNoWriMo .

When November arrives and you start to pour out a novel, just keep writing and don’t give up! If you feel like you’re slacking at any time, you can get a surge of literary productivity from your digital mates. On completing the challenge, you’ll finally have the first version of a book you can go on to edit and improve.

05. Wattpad

Best for: Chick-lit fans who love using emojis.

As an online self-publishing platform, with a booming forum to go with it, this site embodies the digital reformation of the writing industry. Netflix’s hit movie The Kissing Booth is based on a story published via Wattpad that got super famous, demonstrating that, in the 2020s, it’s all about getting your drafts out into the universe.

Half of the Wattpad site is devoted to digital books, the other half to the bustling forum community. The forum functions for readers to hang out, discuss characters and their daily lives too. It’s also the place for authors to create some hype and interact with their audience. If you publish a story on Wattpad , follow up by generating social buzz in the community. To quote Ken Blanchard, “feedback is the breakfast of champions.” Be brave enough to ask for opinions. It’s scary at first, but it’s a great way to boost your confidence as a writer.

06. Writing about Writing

Best for: Humorous writers whose phones are extensions of their arms.

This group is the place to go when you should be writing but you’re on social media instead. (Writing comments on Facebook counts, right?) Apparently loving a good meme, the page admin posts conversation starters and is thoroughly fluent in the language of sarcasm.

This community is less about posting written work and more about what’s going on in the replies. Sometimes crude yet often refreshing points of view are strewn in amongst the pun madness, alongside sprinklings of useful links. Keep in mind that you might need to learn a few new words to understand the punchlines of the community’s wordplay jokes. And, if you’re not attuned to the participants’ humor, it’s possible to think some people in this digital-ecosystem are a bit grumpy.

This Facebook page deserves a humongous shout-out for being proactive regarding accessibility . It’s glorious that all text in pictures is transcribed, so software can read it out loud.

07. Commaful

Best for: Snapchatters in tune with their feelings.

The format of the Commaful community’s super short stories is what makes this site unique. Thriving on succinct multimedia writing, members are doing more than just using written words to communicate. They illustrate their stories, chunked line by line, with pictures, resulting in interactive digital picture books. Because there’s less text on a screen at one time, it makes reading more manageable. Instead of leafing through pages of a book, the interactive tapping is equally as tactile.

Commaful is home to a community of nicely spoken, emerging writers who enjoy inspiring and sensitive poetry. They use writing as catharsis, so you can sense emotions running high. Holistically a great space for creative expression and therapeutic writing.

08. /r/Writing Prompts

Best for: Newsfeed scrollers looking for inspiration.

Encompassing a gigantic amount of activity, it may be hard to initially find your feet in the Reddit social sphere because of the intense multi-layered landscape. But if you invest enough time to surf through Reddit , you’ll find the right spot to write. Writing Prompts is a good place to start. With over 14.2 million promptians signed up, it’s one of the most visited online meeting places for scribes on the net right now.

Kickstart your writing by creating short stories inspired by any of the prompts. Be warned though, the Reddit community does not hold back in their reviews. Just try not to blub. You’ll get a thicker skin and you’ll become a tougher writer. You could even discover someone to collab’ with.

09. Writers Anonymous

Best for: Technologically savvy creative writers.

Writers Anonymous is good for meshing with people from many backgrounds, with different mindsets, who can read your work with fresh eyes. Consequently, this makes writing even more inspiring for you. As usual, share cool links, but avoid major self-promotion. There’s definitely more opportunity to use chatspeak compared to forementioned communities.

Getting used to the Discord platform initially takes lots of clicking around, because of its hashtag-based user interface . The platform was initially created for gamers to chat via their microphone headsets, so it’s the perfect setting for role-play writing. No wonder the stylish dark-mode interface is silky sleek, as gamers are some of the most tech-trendy peeps I know. Check out Disboard , an index for all the Discord subcommunities and search for writing keywords that take your fancy.

10. Critique Circle

Best for: Writers searching for beta readers.

Fab’ for scouting beta readers, it’s no wonder Critique Circle is one of the Internet’s most popular writing forums. Running on a credit system, you “pay” credits to submit your story and score credits for writing a critique on someone else's stuff. The amount you earn depends on the word count of the story and the review. Note that the quality of critiques can vary and some critters may not pay attention to your overarching plotline. You don’t have to write for critiques though. Just write because you enjoy it, in a similar fashion to the heaps of passionate writers that congregate there.

The sign up and browsing experience is easy-going. You can bookmark interesting reads for later and even personalize your front page. As an added bonus, you can access all sorts of statistical information about the members. According to the figures, most users are 26-30 years old who prefer to post critiques on Wednesdays! There’s awesome word association amusements and it’s a great place to chat about the books that you’ve been reading.

11. Bonus: Start your own writing community

Hopefully, this article has inspired you to join one of these digi-communities. Alternatively, it’s completely possible to build your very own writers’ community today. Ready to start? Then create your forum with Wix. It’s literally as straightforward as writing a couple of posts and inviting members to join the conversation. If you’re an author, you’ll find that bringing together the right contacts to chat about writing on your very own individual website will set you apart from the rest of the crowd. Or, simply create some excellent written content and be confident enough to share it with the world.

Looking to create a blog ? Wix has got your covered with thousands of design features, built-in SEO and marketing tools, that will allow you to scale your content, your brand and your business.

Ffion Quick, UX Writer at Wix

Eat, sleep, write, repeat.

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Poets & Writers Groups

Welcome to Poets & Writers Groups! Ready to connect, communicate, and collaborate with a new community of writers? Browse the list or use the filters below to find a writers group that is the perfect fit for you and your work. If you see one you’d like to join, click on “Create a Profile” in the menu bar above or log in if you’ve already created a profile. Once logged in, you’ll be able to click on the vertical ellipses menu that will appear to the right of the group name to request membership. To see groups to which you already belong, click on the “My Groups” button in the menu bar above. Or, if you’d like to create your own group, click on the “Create a Group” button.

New to P&W Groups? Get started now!

Are you new to writers groups and unsure how to begin? Looking for advice on being a supportive member or leader of a group? Look no further. We’ve curated a small collection of articles that offer guidance on starting a group of your own, insight into the many different kinds of writers groups, and inspiration for finding creativity, community, and play in a writers group. 

Catholic Writers

Experienced Writers of Literary Fiction, working on publication

I'm trying to create a writer's group for advanced literary fiction writers, working on publication. I'm hoping group members can submit work for review on at least a twice a month basis and provide critiques within 30 days of group submissions. I am in EST so I'm looking for an evening or Saturday or Sunday evening group time - TBD. Please contact me if you're interested. You'll be asked to submit a short story or 10-20 pages of your work in progress.

Old Ladies Writers Group

I'm old, and that's only going to worse. I've wanted to write since birth, but my mother wanted me to be an engineer then I got married in 1983, all excited to have a husband who would support my work. But he didn't. He had a mediocre career, into which he threw 100% of his effort, leaving me stuck at home to raise the kids, clean the house, and pick up his laundry. The kids were autistic in the early 1990s when it hadn't been discovered yet, so I was screwed. Then I was diagnosed with MS, proving yet again that God hates me. Now husband's retired and I need some space and some help, but he never had a chance to do his hobbies... neither did I, but he doesn't understand. Didn't I have all that time while I was raising the kids?

I want a group for people like me, older, hamstrung, trying to make it up as we go along. I write literary and find genre writers have a whole different take on the experience of writing so think it might be best to write literary fiction, women's fiction, and stuff like that. I'll be flexible.

Prefer meetings in person, but know it's not practical so Zoom or some other one is good for me. It would be nice to have people local to Massachusetts, but I think everybody in the state already has a group, so I can be flexible. What I can't be is boring, so bring your sense of humor.

Really. I just want to talk about writing with people who know something about how to do it, because I'm getting lost in all this extra stuff. I've got 20 decent years left so I have no time to waste.

The Creative Common Room

“In a world where some of us writers are deprived of each other, or looked down upon, Critiquecircle exists as candy for the mind. we come here to relax, and meet more of our... kind. ” Nick Dallien, canada

“I find CC a brilliant place to polish my ability in writing and read really intriguing chapters from other creative people. I am relatively new to writing but with some more practice on here I am pretty hyped for entering this years NaNoWriMo.” David Arnett, Hartlepool. England.

“The set-up is really great, and honestly, I couldn't think of a better way for aspiring authors to hone in on the craft. The people are typically nice and it's great to forge, if not friendship, at least mutual respect for other writers.” Kayle Kess, USA

“Critique circle has one of the widest scopes of ensuring improvement for real writers. A brilliant step to publication.” Shandana Khalid, Pakistan

“"Me like Critique Circle - it good!" That's how I USED to write, before joining Critique Circle. Now, thanks to the many fine members of CC, my writing is much, much gooder. Okay, I'm still a newbie, but it's an improvement. ;)” Mark Dimig-Mathis, I'm from Joisey (exit 10)

“ This site is superior to other ones I've joined. The quality of the reviews and reviewers is exceptional. I have even gone so far as to advertise this site on other critique websites, because I really do think that this one is best!” Anne Jordan, Northern California

“I've been a member of CC for several years now, and aside from the awesome community and wonderful friendships I've made here, I believe the crits I've received have been a factor in getting quite a few short stories published. :D Thank you, wonderful critters, and thank you CC!” Merc Fenn Wolfmoor, Anoka, MN, USA

“I’d like to thank members of Critique Circle (www.critiquecircle.com), an online international writing site for all authors, many of whom critiqued my book and significantly improved it. Christine Merritt” Christine Merritt, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

“Your story couldn't be shredded in a more constructive manner so: Abandon pride all ye who enter here. This is where you start to improve...” Len Morgan, Hullbridge, Essex, England

“I first learned about Critique Circle from Writers Digest. It is the only writing forum I visit everyday!” Keven Pirritano, CA, USA

Newest blog posts

The Critique Circle blog is written by our members and is filled with interesting articles about writing.

A Tale of Two Grandpas

The odds of success as a writer aren’t inspiring. But is that inspiration—that nigh-impossible dream of fame and fortune—the one that drives your love of the craft?

Lulu Oberkotter

Tension: Walking the Tightrope

Tension is a key source of interest and reader engagement in storytelling. Of the many types of tension, the sometimes overlooked, under-appreciated, and misunderstand reader-vs-story or reader-vs-author tension can be both powerful and dangerous. If employed well it can add substantial interest t...

N.C. Randall

Midnight Muse

As an unpublished wannabe, I have very little advice to impart to my fellow writers. But here’s one little tip I’ve learned through my experience with chronic insomnia that I feel qualified to share.

Is Critique circle free?

Membership is free and always has been. There is also a premium subscription that you can buy which unlocks additional features and perks.

When was the website started?

Critique Circle first came online in October 2003 and has been running continuously ever since. It is one of the oldest writing websites out there.

How active is Critique Circle?

We have thousands of members that are actively using the site and are closing in on one million served critiques.

How safe are my stories?

Stories submitted to CC are not considered 'published online' and cannot be found on search engines. You can manage your story accessibility yourself and delete them at any time.

It's easy and free to join.

Come on in, you're in good company.

Black Writers Collective

FIND YOUR TRIBE

Writing can be a solitary endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be.

Welcome to the Black Writers Collective, the online community for writers of all levels and genres. We are a passionate group of writers who come together to support each other, share resources, and hone our craft.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Network is the perfect place to connect with other writers and take your writing to the next level. We believe that every writer has a story to tell, and we’re here to help you tell it. Join our community today and start exploring all that we have to offer!

#BLACKWRITERSMATTER

What we offer.

Our private critique and accountability groups for writers of fiction and nonfiction are the heart of our online community. We also host monthly meet-and-greets, support groups, and live weekly writing sessions for all members.

In our network, you can develop your writing habit, gain constructive feedback, and get advice on writing and publishing your books, plus referrals to vetted freelance editors and publishing consultants to help you avoid wasting time and money.

Our resources include digital downloads on the craft and business of writing, free beta reader queries, links to vetted editors and literary services to help make it easier for you to reach your publishing goals.

WRITING JOBS & OPPORTUNITIES

We share job openings, writing gigs, calls for submissions, grants, and fellowships from organizations and individuals seeking applicants of color to our members-only announcement list, offering employers the option of sharing to our 21K organic following on Twitter.

WE'RE HERE TO HELP

Got something to share, hire black writers.

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Peer Writing Groups

Inked Voices is home to more than 75 active writing groups. The majority of our groups are critique groups, but we also also have accountability-only and writing prompt groups.

Current Groups Accepting New Members

This list includes our writing groups that have elected to share a public profile. To see all groups open to new members, sign up for a free trial. We’ll also email you on sign up to see if you’d like some help matching.

Seeking 5-8 members

Mystery Crime & Thriller

Genres: Adult - Novels - Upmarket - Adult - Novels - Fantasy - Adult - Novels…

What we’re looking for: Established writers working towards publication or finding an agent.

Seeking 10-16 members

Speculative Fiction

Genres: Adult - Novels - Low magic/fantasy - Adult - Novels - Fantasy - Adult…

What we’re looking for: We're looking for writers who love reading speculative fiction works, who are interested in an active community to exch… Read more

Seeking 3-40 members

Genres: Adult - Short Fiction - Flash Fiction - Adult - Short Fiction - Low m…

What we’re looking for: Enthusiasm, determination, sense of wonder, participation.

Seeking 6-8 members

Mission Control

Genres: Adult - Novels - Mystery, Crime, and Thriller - Adult - Short Fiction…

What we’re looking for: Writers who are seeking honest, supportive criticism and who are committed to providing the same for their fellow membe… Read more

Seeking 3-8 members

Forever Young

Genres: Children's - Young Adult - Contemporary fiction - Children'…

What we’re looking for: Supportive, Helpful, Respectful, and Passionate about writing.

Seeking 4-6 members

MG Novelists

Genres: Children's - Middle Grade - Contemporary fiction - Children'…

What we’re looking for:

Seeking 3-4 members

MG Masterminds

What we’re looking for: Meets deadlines, be responsive to group communications, professional, friendly, sense of humor, thoughtful critiques gi… Read more

Seeking 0-200 members

Middle Grade and Chapter Books Community Group

This group is a place for writers to find and share middle grade (inc chapter Book) resou…

What we’re looking for: Anyone looking for community and to find and share helpful resources.

Seeking 2-5 members

Middle Grade Adventures

What we’re looking for: Fun, thoughtful, kind writers ready to take our writing to the next level.

Seeking 10-30 members

A more advanced group for dedicated writers.

Our focus in on the writing itself. Our group…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Literary - Adult - Novels - Upmarket - Adult - Novel…

What we’re looking for: Anyone interested in improving writing and craft skills. Those who recognize that publishable works start at the level … Read more

Seeking 4-10 members

Character-Driven Adult Fiction

Working on various forms of fiction, for publication and/or personal pleasure.  Star…

What we’re looking for: Thoughtful, constructive, respectful, honest critiques. Members who are willing to commit to submission and critique s… Read more

Seeking 10-15 members

Agented Children’s and Young Adult Authors

If you have a literary agent and you write for kids or young adults, this is the group fo…

Genres: Children's - Picture Books - Fiction - Children's - Picture…

Seeking 0-150 members

Adult Fiction and Nonfiction Resources

This group is a forum where I will share information about upcoming events and other item…

What we’re looking for: Anyone looking to find and share helpful resources.

Seeking 4-4 members

Blood & Guts Thrillers/Crime Fiction/Suspense

The goal is to support each other in writing great stories. It's hard to be in a critique…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Horror - Adult - Novels - Mystery, Crime, and Thrill…

Seeking 10-100 members

Science Fiction and Fantasy Community Resource Group

A gathering place for writers of fiction that falls under Speculative Fiction:  Scien…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Literary - Adult - Novels - Historical fiction - Adu…

What we’re looking for: Engagement with the community–offering resources, discussion, asking questions, and offering support. The community is… Read more

Seeking 3-30 members

Verse Novel Writing Community Group.

A space for writers who work in verse and poetry to discuss, share and meet one another.

What we’re looking for: Engagement, passion and curiosity in verse writing.

Write Right

Group focused on encouraging members to become better writers, in all areas of writing an…

What we’re looking for: Positive and enthusiastic feedback on submitted prose. And of course, we want to see your stories too!

Crooked Joints and Broken Bones

What we’re looking for: Dedication to effort and publication

Seeking 3-20 members

Mystery Thriller Writers (MTW) Community

Inked Voices members who write in the mystery / thriller genre will gather via Zoom for …

What we’re looking for: A earnest desire to improve your writing--both general craft and elements specific to the mystery / thriller genre.

Seeking 3-6 members

Weekly Accountability

This is a group devoted to helping one another along in the journey to get words on the p…

What we’re looking for: Thoughtful, caring support for one another. Readiness to commit to the page and to a group like this. Check-in even whe… Read more

Indie Publishing Support Group

I am a debut writer and have decided to self-publish. I want my book to be available soo…

What we’re looking for: Openness to sharing, asking questions, and offering your ideas and experiences.

Seeking 3-60 members

The Quotidian

This group is for those who would like to establish some momentum in their writing practi…

What we’re looking for: Dedication to the daily act of writing and adherence to the principle of no commenting on the work of others, whether p… Read more

Seeking 5-10 members

MG Book Club

Because readers make better writers, this book club will read some of the more recent awa…

What we’re looking for: Members of this group will read the novel that is selected at the beginning of the month and participate in a virtual d… Read more

The Nevermore's: 2023 Weekly Poetry Prompt Group

Our goal is to write one poem each week for the ENTIRE year of 2023. :)

This is a judgemen…

Genres: Adult - Poetry - Poetry - Children's - Picture Books - Fiction -…

What we’re looking for: Currently not looking for new members.

The is a small group where members post a short rhyming piece each week based on a prompt…

What we’re looking for: Writers committed to improving their rhyming and meter skills and helping others do the same.

Memoir and Essay

A group for memoir and essay writers to exchange work and support one another. Writers in…

Genres: Adult - Nonfiction - Memoir - Adult - Nonfiction - Narrative nonficti…

What we’re looking for: Writers that are committed to their craft, open to suggestions and willing to give constructive feedback of fellow memb… Read more

Seeking 3-5 members

Tales from the Middle Grade

We will help each writer improve their manuscript to help it towards completion and towar….

What we’re looking for: Thoughtful, constructive critiques and group engagement focused on helping each writer and their manuscript shine. Writ… Read more

Seeking 3-50 members

Authors Seeking/Providing Reviews of published or pre-published work

Reviews of published or ready-to-publish work will be posted here on the site and may be …

What we’re looking for: Honesty and thoughtfulness in expressing your opinions, ability to provide a blurb or synopsis of your book, commitment… Read more

Middle Grade Magic

Small  critique group for middle grade and upper middle grade works in progress.&nbs…

What we’re looking for: Looking for experienced middle grade and upper middle grade writers who want to receive and give feedback.

Spec Fic Novel Review

A place for writers with book-length completed or nearly completed speculative fiction ma…

What we’re looking for: Looking for active membership - regular critiques, regular q&a participation, and participation in group discussions.

Seeking 3-3 members

We Are Epic

A group created for writers who face all the unique problems that come with world buildin…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Fantasy - Adult - Novels - Science Fiction

What we’re looking for: Searching for dedicated writers who are working on lengthy projects in the Epic category, whether currently in the midd… Read more

BIPOC Novelists

This group is for Black, Indigenous and writers of color who are advanced fiction writers…

What we’re looking for: Committed fiction writers of color who've studied the craft, had a long-standing writing practice and are working on a … Read more

Seeking 2-50 members

Write-in Writers

This is a place to keep up to speed with our write-ins.

Seeking 4-5 members

SSF Novel Review

A group for writers with completed or almost completed SSF/speculative fiction manuscript…

What we’re looking for: Positivity and commitment (you can be reviewing anywhere from 10,000-20,000 words every two-three weeks (depending on t… Read more

The Writing Exchange

We will read one another's novels chapter by chapter and provide critiques. 

What we’re looking for: Commitment!

Picture Book Nook

Picture Book Nook is your cozy and supportive space to get honest feedback. We are seriou…

What we’re looking for: - Dedication to craft, writing with a goal to be published - Fresh voices, no formulaic writing

Seeking 5-12 members

The Weekly Checkup

We are a group devoted to helping one another along in the writing journey. This is not a…

What we’re looking for: Commitment! In joining, you are agreeing to post once a week AND to respond to the posts of each of the other members, … Read more

May Pop-up: Advanced Picture Book Biographies

We are limiting this group to 6 people, so you will be responsible for doing 5 critiques …

Genres: Children's - Picture Books - Nonfiction

Seeking 1-99 members

The Study of Misfits

Transgressive group. Bring us your weirdos, underachievers, crazies, and nonconformists! …

What we’re looking for: Writers and critiques. Those familiar with the genre really wanted, but you can come here just to learn about it, too.

Literary Fiction

This critique group is for those who write for adults and consider their work "literary" …

What we’re looking for: Thoughtful, constructive peer feedback that can help the writer take their work to the next level.

Distant Worlds

This is a new group primarily for writers of fantasy novels. Works do not have to be fini…

What we’re looking for: Kindness and accountability. We also want members who understand that life happens, and sometimes we need to take break… Read more

June/July Pop-up: Advanced Picture Books - Quiet Stories

This is a pop-up critique group for picture books that you (or someone like an agent or e…

Genres: Children's - Picture Books - Fiction

What we’re looking for: This group is for advanced picture book writers and critiquers. Members need to have a minimum of three years writing p… Read more

BIPOC Writers

A supportive community for writers of color.

Seeking 2-4 members

Speculative Thriller, Mystery & Suspense

A critique group for writers somewhere on the gradient between speculative fiction and th…

Strictly Sci-Fi

This is a critique group for writers of science fiction. 

Genres: Adult - Novels - Science Fiction - Adult - Short Fiction - Science Fi…

Practice Makes Perfect: Fiction Prompt Group

Note: This group has reached capacity for this round. Check back in December for our next…

Genres: Adult - Short Fiction - Flash Fiction - Adult - Short Fiction - Liter…

What we’re looking for: Open to writers of all genres, and all experience levels are welcome and encouraged to join, but check your ego at the … Read more

All-purpose Writing Group (Spec Fic leaning)

This is a long-term combo accountability, critique, writing development, and “being an au…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Historical fiction - Adult - Novels - Low magic/fant…

What we’re looking for: Writers who are committed to writing for the long-term, who will be active participants and will support and encourage… Read more

Realistic YA and Adult Fiction

This group is for writers who have completed or almost completed a draft manuscript in th…

What we’re looking for: Commitment! The goal is to have a maximum of five members and work through our novels chapter by chapter.

Picture Book Critique Group

Hi all. I’m hoping to get three or four members who want to work on their fiction or non-…

What we’re looking for: Willing to be honest but courteous and supportive.

Spec Shorts

A critique group for writers of short speculative fiction (I.e., complete stories under 7…

What we’re looking for: Commitment and engagement. Writing short fiction is a challenge. We’re eager to find critíque partners who give as good… Read more

Speculative Suspense, Thriller & Horror.

For writers somewhere on the spectrum between speculative fiction and thriller or horror,…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Upmarket - Adult - Novels - Low magic/fantasy - Adul…

Work in Progress

Peer critique group

Cozy Sleuth Writing Group

Calling all Cozy Mystery Sleuths! If you love writing a good cozy mystery this is the gro…

What we’re looking for: Do you love Amateur Sleuths? Small Towns? Bakeries, Libraries, Small shops, and other cozy settings? Do you love to wri… Read more

Early Reader Graphic Novel Author/Illustrator Peer Group

I couldn't find a group specifically for author/illustrators working on easy reader graph…

Genres: Children's - Early Readers and Chapter Books - Early Readers and…

What we’re looking for: Be an author/illustrator currently working on or having finished a graphic novel manuscript.

The LGBTQ+ Community Group

A community gathering place for LGBTQIA+ writers from all genres. We post on the 1st and …

What we’re looking for: Commitment and kindness

Humor in Picture Books

This pop-up group is for giving and receiving critique feedback specifically on the humor…

What we’re looking for: I'm going to do a bit of research ahead of time and--if I can find some good ones--post links to articles that talk abo… Read more

Beginning Writers Support & Critique Group

Are you just starting your creative journey? Do you have a general idea that maybe you've…

Genres: Adult - Novels - Literary - Adult - Novels - Low magic/fantasy - Adul…

What we’re looking for: We are looking for enthusiastic people to share their stories, as well as give their opinions and critiques on others s… Read more

After the First Draft - Novelists

We are a group of experienced writers who enjoy the craft and understand critiquing the w…

What we’re looking for: Experience with writing and providing productive critiques as well as an openness to have your work critiqued.

YA pop-up critique group (June 2024)

A short term pop-up critique group to workshop opening pages of your novel.

What we’re looking for: Thoughtful, kind and encouraging members!

Seeking 5-6 members

June 2024 CB/MG Pop-Up Critique Group

Hello! I'm excited to be hosting the June 2024 CB/MG pop-up critique group. This group is…

All-purpose Writing Group 2 (Spec Fic leaning)

What we’re looking for: Writers who are committed to writing for the long-term, who will be active participants and will support and encourage … Read more

Literary Speculative Fiction

A critique group  for writers of character-driven fiction in the  realms of science fiction…

What we’re looking for: Commitment, kindness, and active participation.

The Screenwriters Group

This group is a place for screenwriters and scriptwriters to help one another hone their …

What we’re looking for: Commitment and kindness.

Stage Play Writers

This proposed small IV group is meant for those who are actively involved in writing a s…

What we’re looking for: to be decided

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11 Top Writing Communities You Should Join and Why

The life of a writer is pretty solitary, both by design and necessity. While you may find yourself in the neighborhood coffee shop a few days a week just for a change of pace, being a writer can be lonely and quiet.

Well-meaning as they are, your friends and family don’t understand the nuance between conflict and crisis. Try as they might, they can’t relate to the complexity of creating a consistent voice . And, heaven help them, they’ll never get the agony of choosing between traditional and self-publishing .

It’s no wonder that writing and alcohol are familiar companions.

But it’s not happy hour yet. Here’s the good news: you’re not alone. In fact, right this moment, writers just like you are actively participating in writing communities all over the web. It’s time that you meet.

But first, you may be wondering, what’s the point of joining a writing community? I’m glad you asked, because there’s a lot of compelling reasons to join. Let’s break it down:

Have you ever gotten to a point in your story where something just doesn’t sound right, but you can’t figure it out? You don’t want to ask your friends and family for their opinion because, let’s be honest, they’ll just say it sounds great to avoid hurting your feelings (even when you know it doesn’t).

Submitting a difficult piece to your writing community allows you to get honest, actionable feedback while you’re still working on your manuscript.

+Support & Encouragement

Writers understand other writers. They understand what it’s like to fall in love with a character, to struggle with dialogue, and to build entire worlds from scratch. These are your people. You need an environment where you can talk to fellow writers who struggle in the same areas you do. Those people can also help pull you from the mire of despair when the going gets tough, and they’ll motivate you to write those last thousand words.

After you’ve written and edited your book, you can ask your writing community to review your book. Swapping reviews is a popular practice. It’s free and easy to do, and a win-win for both writers.

+Beta Readers

So, what is a beta reader? Beta readers can help catch common, easy to fix mistakes such as detail inconsistencies, that you'll most likely miss after having read over the manuscript 300 times. Often the most important thing beta readers can offer is the indication that something is wrong. They may not know how to fix it or may not offer the right suggestion, but they'll alert you to the fact that X isn't working.

If you’re self-publishing, you’ll need to get marketing savvy quickly. In addition to subscribing to our blog , get thee involved in a writing community where you can learn a lot of interesting marketing tricks and techniques from seasoned pros.

Also, most online writing communities have a dedicated space for writers to promote their books. Share your book with a wider audience.

Here are five easy steps for getting involved in an online writing community. Subscribe to receive this extra resource.

Download your bonus content:

Now that you’re fully convinced on the benefits of becoming an active member in an online writing community, let’s look at the very best ones to join (in alphabetical order) :

1. Absolute Write Water Cooler

Absolute Writer is a popular and passionate writer’s forum on everything from politics to science fiction (which may in fact be the same thing). It welcomes writers of all genres, including novels, non fiction, screenwriting, and greeting cards.

Why Join? This community is well moderated and extremely popular. You’ll find kindred spirits here.

Popular boards include Ask the Agent , Self-Publishing , and Young Adult .

2. AgentQuery

AgentQuery is a great place to go for critiques and feedback. If you’re further along in the writing process and would love to know how to get an agent, for example, this is the go-to writing community. Check out successful query letters and learn about marketing your book after it’s published.

Why Join? There’s plenty of advice for after you’ve completed your manuscript and are interested in shopping it around. Find out what needs to be done by those who’ve been there/ done that.

Popular boards include Spectulative Fiction , Author and Book Promotion Tips , Agent Submission Process

BookRix is a community for independent writers who are interested in self-publishing. While the site BookRix does provide writers with self-publishing help, its community is full of diverse topics that can help any writer improve and commiserate (or both!).

Why Join? You’ll enter an established book community with lots of activity.

Popular boards include Serious Writers , Book Promotion , The Reading List

4. Critique Circle

Established in 2003, Critique Circle is one of the oldest writing communities online. The majority of members are young adults between 21 to 30. As the name implies, members take advantage of critique help, but there’s also a chill vibe for this site. For example, a popular thread at the time of this post is word association.

Why Join? Join for critique help and camaraderie. You may lose hours interacting with other writers in this community, and that’s a good thing every now and then.

Popular boards include Publishing , The Procrastination Lounge (no surprise), Publishing

5. Critters Writers Workshop

For all you sci-fi, fantasy, or horror writers out there, here’s the group for you. While it’s not the most active community out there, there’s a lot of genre specific nuggets you’ll love to read.

Why Join? This board is a must-join for the sci-fi, fantasy, or horror crowd.

Popular boards include Critique Discussions , Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Writing , Help!

6. SCRIBOPHILE

Scribophile is one of the largest writing communities online. Writers of any genre join to post their writing for critique, give each other feedback on how to improve their writing, and help each other on their journey to publication. Their forums are busy, with over 5.1 million posts at the time of writing, and their members have gone on to be published by the likes of HarperCollins, Macmillan, Penguin Random House, Simon and Schuster, and more.

Why Join? This community is one of the top places to get professional feedback on your writing, and to meet other writers working in your genre.

Popular boards include

[Writing]( https://www.scribophile.com/forums/writing/ )

[Publishing] ( https://www.scribophile.com/forums/publishing/ )

[General discussion: Cool Hang-Out Chill Zone ( https://www.scribophile.com/forums/the-cool-hang-out-chill-zone/ ).

7. Hatrack River Writers Workshop

While the Hatrack River Writers Workshop forum has an old school look and feel, there’s plenty of fresh ideas and energetic discussions.

Why Join? Get involved in vibrant discussions about developing character and plot. Learn more about improving your writing from fellow writers.

Popular boards include Open Discussions About Writing , Fragments and Feedback for Short Works , Writing Class

Mibba skews young, but it’s welcoming to any age group. Mibba users create blogs and write narrative posts or stories that can then be critiqued by other members. It’s a great community for young writers who need extra support.

Why Join? This community nurtures young authors by providing an active community, opportunities for collaboration, and peer feedback.

Popular boards include Role-Playing , General , Tips

9. NaNoWriMo

Short for National Novel Writing Month, NaNoWriMo is something of a revolution that challenges writers everywhere to write an entire novel in one month. Crazy, but scores of dedicated fanatics have proven it’s possible.

Why Join? This is a wildly popular community that provides tons of support and writing strategies.

Popular boards include Plot Doctoring , Reference Desk , Writing 101

10. The Next Big Writer

In this community, you’ll find writers who offer professional, no-fluff feedback. There’s not a lot of random activity here, but rather a more somber discourse on writing.

Why Join? Join for professional critique from established writers.

Popular boards include The TheNextBigWriter Basic Group , The Writing Tips & Advice Group , The Fantasy World Builders Group

11. The Reddit Writer's Group

Last but certainly not least is Reddit. Reddit features a subreddit dedicated to write and another to writing . Confusing, right? Just join both. Both subreddits are active and popular, and great for a quick hit of inspiration.

Why Join? Where else can you see this treat: Knowing your character rules and boundaries is essential; here's Chuck Jones' cheat sheet for the Coyote and Roadrunner ?

Popular boards include Write , Writing

Final Thoughts

Joining a writing community is one of the best things you can do to improve your morale and hone your skills. While these communities are completely free, you’ll be amazed at how much value they add to your life.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on November 2015 and has been updated for accuracy.

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Welcome to Pebble Beach Writing.

We offer workshops and mentoring for creative writers of all levels and experience. Among our participants are new writers trying out their first ideas on the page and published authors who want support and feedback as they develop their work.

Pebble Beach tutor, Susanna Jones,  has over thirty years' teaching experience and was the main fiction tutor on the Creative Writing MA at Royal Holloway University of London for fourteen years. She has also taught at the University of Exeter and has tutored courses for the Arvon Foundation.

Courses are held in Brighton and Hove or online. Groups are small – usually 5–8 participants – allowing everyone time for individual feedback and space to develop.

Classes for summer term 2024:

Writing a Novel (new), Saturday mornings, Brighton 

Writing from Life (new), Saturday afternoons, Brighton

Writing a Novel (continuing), Monday evenings, Hove

Fiction Workshop (continuing), Tuesday evenings, Hove 

Online tuition is also possible for individuals or small groups of writers with similar aims. See below or get in touch to find out more.

Join our mailing list below for the latest news and announcements. 

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'Susanna is, without a doubt, the best creative writing teacher and workshop leader I’ve ever come across. Whether you are just starting out on your writing journey, or have a couple of novels under your belt and want to hone your skill, Susanna is the right person for you. She was the lead fiction tutor on my Creative Writing MA and, more recently, has guided me through editing my first novel. I’m not sure I could have done it without her - and I certainly wouldn’t have done it this well. I have complete trust in her judgement and believe she has made me not only a stronger writer but a much better editor. She is generous with her time and with her extensive experience and will give your work the kind of respect, care and attention that most writers can only dream of from a third party. In short, whatever stage you’re at as a writer, Susanna will help you progress, improve and reach your writing goal.'      Louisa S.

One-to-one Mentoring/Small Group Tuition

One-off or a series of sessions for writers of all levels.

Beginners' tuition package of 5 sessions, including prompts and ideas to get you started.

Editorial and developmental feedback on your novel.

Small group Zoom sessions may be possible for two or more writers with similar requirements. 

Pebble Beach Writing is run by Susanna Jones,  the author of several novels, including The Earthquake Bird, Water Lily, The Missing Person's Guide to Love and When Nights Were Cold.   She is currently writing for film. 

Susanna has been teaching for more than thirty years. From 2005 to 2018 she was the main fiction tutor on the MA in Creative Writing at Royal Holloway University of London. Many of her former students have gone on to publish novels and win awards. She has taught and mentored writers of all levels, from beginners to PhD students.

TESTIMONIALS

'Susanna is an amazing mentor.  I was lucky enough to be taught by her when I undertook an MA in Creative Writing before going on to teach the subject myself.  Her insightful advice and editing skills are second to none.  When I started a novel and hit some thorny difficulties, I was so pleased to discover that Susanna was running an Advanced Fiction Writing course.  She was invaluable in terms of helping me pick out the strands which were working and the ones which needed further thought.  She has an exceptional eye for detail and her feedback is positive and constructive.  She offered accessible solutions based on her many years of experience and opened up new avenues I hadn’t considered, which was so helpful.  There is no way I could have produced work at this level and this quickly, without her support.   

     Susanna created a great rapport within a workshop environment.  Even though the sessions I took were online, the respectful and encouraging tone she set, eased us into working comfortably together.  Her sessions were well- run and well-structured and I thoroughly looked forward to each one.  Susanna brought out the best in my writing and I couldn’t recommend her highly enough.'

'Susanna is, without a doubt, the best creative writing teacher and workshop leader I’ve ever come across. Whether you are just starting out on your writing journey, or have a couple of novels under your belt and want to hone your skill, Susanna is the right person for you. She was the lead fiction tutor on my Creative Writing MA and, more recently, has guided me through editing my first novel. I’m not sure I could have done it without her - and I certainly wouldn’t have done it this well. I have complete trust in her judgement and believe she has made me not only a stronger writer but a much better editor. She is generous with her time and with her extensive experience and will give your work the kind of respect, care and attention that most writers can only dream of from a third party. In short, whatever stage you’re at as a writer, Susanna will help you progress, improve and reach your writing goal.' 

'Susanna is incredibly insightful and has been a huge help in identifying areas where my manuscript needed development. She’s helped me work through options while bringing a fresh insight into the work as well as identifying potential pitfalls. She’s a great tutor and coach and all her workshops leave me feeling energised and confident for the next stage.'

'I taught the novel as literature and writing fiction in Universities for over thirty years but putting this experience into practice when writing is much harder. Susanna Jones really knows how to help. She is an accomplished writer who really understands storytelling but also how a novel is structured and built from the blank page. I found her advice and encouragement priceless. Her novel writing courses and workshops are excellent and I recommend them without reservation. I am still writing and learning and I will return.'

'Susanna's artful teaching method helps you get those words down on paper with no pain or shame. Inspiring!'

Madeleine C

'One of the things that made this course so enjoyable was Susanna's enthusiasm for us, her students, and our work. She clearly loves teaching - and is brilliant at pin-pointing what a piece of writing is trying to do, as well as suggesting how to do it. She is entirely undogmatic about how to approach writing. She really listens and gives intelligent but non-prescriptive responses. Every session was thought-provoking and stimulating and really specific about how and what works in fiction.'

'Susanna is a brilliant creative writing teacher and mentor who is now mentoring me through my second book. She has that rare capacity to pinpoint exactly what works and doesn’t work in a piece of writing, and why. Whether you need help with overall structure and direction, or a close critical reading with a scrupulous editor’s eye, she will give you the best possible support to transform your writing.'

'I find it difficult to start, to pick up that one simple thing that can propel me into the creative flow. The 60-minute sessions I did last December were enjoyable, useful, and left me with material to develop into a couple of short stories - and a poem that was published.' 

'I’d like to tell you how much your Creative Writing workshops meant to me. Your guidance encouraged me to think as well as to enjoy writing and we had fun too! Thank you so much, Susanna.'

'Susanna Jones was an outstanding lecturer on my MA course in creative writing – her books were one of the reasons that I chose the course. She provided clear and helpful teaching on how to produce the best writing, together with incisive critical feedback.  Being such a talented author herself gave her a unique insight into the most effective ways to encourage budding writers. I have no doubt that my work measurably improved as a result of her efforts.'

'Susanna was my tutor on the MA and I looked forward to her classes every week. Her feedback was always spot on and encouraged me to reflect on my writing in new ways and dig a little deeper. Susanna is one of those rare breeds of people who both excels at her craft but is also able to pass on her knowledge and years of experience in an engaging way. She is just a brilliant tutor and I can't recommend her highly enough.'

 'I felt a little ambivalent about joining an online writing course but it turned out to have been such a good move. Somehow I found it easier to focus, not harder, and the fact that I could simply continue with what I was writing the moment the class finished made for some very productive Sunday evenings. Susanna is just lovely. She has a knack for nudging you gently towards fresh perspectives, different angles. In just a few sessions I found myself thinking very differently about what I was writing, what I could be writing, and why. Not at all what I’d expected!'