Meredith Mansfield, Author

I’ve never belonged to a face-to-face writers’ group, mainly because I haven’t found one that suits my needs, yet.  However I do belong to three different online writers’ groups.  You’ll find them listed on the right side of this blog, if you scroll down.

Writers’ groups can be great.  They’re a place for support, which all of us occasionally need.  They’re a great place to learn about the ins and outs of this business, especially if they have members at all levels–beginners new enough to ask all the questions and veterans experienced enough to have some of the answers.

Still there are different kinds of writers’ groups, even online.  I’m a member of a brand new writers’ group (literally, the forum only started at the end of August), and so far it is completely awesome.  We’re divided up into smaller groups based on our interests–novels or short stories, genre, etc.  It’s possible to belong to more than one group.  I’m currently in a group focusing on young adult fantasy novels.  It’s a new experience, getting critiques only from people who are interested in the same kind of writing I am.  I love it.

I am amazed at the quality of writing, story ideas, and critiques in this group so far.  I predict that in five years at least one of us will be published.  Hope it’s me.