Adventures with... Writing Critique Groups

Hello, friend! How is life treating you? Read any good books lately? Written anything you're proud of or eager to share?

Speaking of writing and books... I recently joined three different writers groups. Yes, you saw that correctly. Three different groups, with multiple members, all submitting excerpts of their writing, such as a book chapter, for critique. What does this mean? During any given week, I'll be critiquing roughly twelve pieces ranging from 3,000 words to 10,000 words. In return, the others will do the same for my work. This is not the same thing as having my work edited, but I feel it will help me improve my craft, with the added benefit of helping others on their writing journey.

If you're a serious writer who's never been in a critique group, I would highly recommend it. Keep in mind, you need to develop a thick skin to properly receive constructive criticism. And there's a knack to providing your honest opinion without being offensive or hurtful. Compassion is key. Plus, you'll need to embrace certain virtues, such as diligence, punctuality, and reliability. But don't let that scare you off. The right critique group can be your strongest supporter and ally as an author.

So far, it's been an interesting adventure for me. I'm meeting new people and reading some pretty intriguing stories! It's great to be among serious writers who share the same passion for creating characters and building worlds that I do. I'll keep you informed of my adventures as events warrant.

If you've been in a critique group, let me know about your experience! I'm happy to take any advice, and to give advice in return.

Awesome Fantasy Books

While you are waiting (oh, so patiently) for Wyldling Trials to come out, I have three book recommendations to satisfy your craving for the weird and fantastic. I read and enjoyed them all, and I hope you do, too! These featured books are all series starters, so the fun doesn't end here.

Also, if you haven't read Wyldling Snare, yet, it's available on Amazon in e-book, paperback, and you can read for free on Kindle Unlimited!

The Tenets in the Tattoos by Becky James

https://buy.bookfunnel.com/f8ipqk3lqg?tid=z3a4761gyh

A wonderful story! The world-building is excellent, I love the premise of twinned souls based on platonic friendship, and I get a kick out of the characters. Bonus: it's a portal fantasy!

The Dragoneer by Amber Boudreau

https://www.amazon.com/Dragoneer-Amber-Boudreau/dp/1733122524

What would you do if a dragon chose you to be its "dragoneer"...and what does that even mean? Read the book and find out! The MC, Moira, is a strong female lead. I would recommend to those who, like me, love stories with dragons. Bonus: it's set in Wisconsin.

Dyrwolf by Kat Kinney

https://www.amazon.com/Dyrwolf-Kat-Kinney-ebook/dp/B07KNBGN4Z/

The first in a duology and an intriguing coming of age story about a young woman from a culture at war with the local werewolves. It has a romantic subplot, but it's clean. I found the MC's interactions with the love interest both humorous and cute. The narrative tends toward the poetical and is very descriptive, so if that's not your cup of tea... But I enjoyed reading Dyrwolf and just HAD to read the second book, Darkwitch, once I finished.

Fantasy Books Available on Kindle Unlimited

https://books.bookfunnel.com/awesomefantasy2023/4zvo2wfvsj

Fantastic Freebies Available for a Limited Time:

https://books.bookfunnel.com/freefantasyfeb23/xgxeug5qts

https://books.bookfunnel.com/freefantasyfeb/5f76am14ey

https://books.bookfunnel.com/morefantasy/opf2i9gim2

Cute Cat Photos

Look at what my friend, Fe, sent me for my birthday on Tuesday! Aren't they adorable? Too bad they're all the way over in New Zealand; I'd love to cuddle these kitties!

Wyldling Snare by A.R. Grimes

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B3SBSJKR

Well, that’s all I have for you this week. Keep reading and carry on!

All the best,

A.R. Grimes