Finding a critique group is easy. Follow the advice in this post to start your search.
The Personal Way
Asking a writer friend is one of the easiest ways to find a critique group. Or try an independent bookstore that sells books by local authors. Check their bulletin board for possible groups. You can also ask a librarian–a library being a place where critique groups often meet. If you don’t know any other writers, one way to find them is at a book fair or sometimes at craft shows. It’s as simple as asking if their critique group is open to new members.
The Internet Way
Do an online search starting with your city. For example, SMALLVILLE CRITIQUE GROUP.
Try to widen the search with more terms that interest you:
- ONLINE SCIFI CRITIQUE GROUP
- ZOOM HANGOUTS FANTASY CRITIQUE GROUP
- FREE ONLINE CRITIQUE GROUP
- SMALL ONLINE MYSTERY CRITIQUE GROUP
- EMAIL SCIFI WRITERS CRITIQUE GROUP
- WOMEN-ONLY FANTASY CRITIQUE GROUP
The Social Media Way
Search for “critique group” on social media sites:
The Writers Group Way
Larger writers’ groups often suggest you simply “join” them. If a fee is involved a trial membership is usually possible with a refund if you don’t like the set-up. These groups are found locally, across the country or worldwide. Here are a few options to get started:
- Speculative Fiction Writers (our group)
- Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers
- Florida Writers – Writers Groups
- Internet Writing Workshop
- Critique Circle – FAQ
- Critique.org – FAQ
- Online Writing Workshop
Contact the Group
Critique groups vary regarding membership requirements, ranging from “anybody” to only writers with published works. Check out the style of the group: instructive, friendly, business-like etc. What books has the group helped toward publishing? Try auditing a session first to see if the group is for you.
If you need more help finding a critique group, see What to Expect at Your First Critique Session, Types of Critique Groups, or Beware of Critique Groups! for additional information on finding the right group.