A good critique partner is worth their weight in gold. Someone who points out what you can’t see, is clear and precise in their advice, and able to do all this with the compassion and understanding that can only come from a fellow writer, well if you find one, you’re on cloud nine.
The problem is that it’s really hard to find them. I have been blessed with a phenomenal team mate in the writing life and I wanted to share some tips on how to find a critique partner of your own.
· Join yahoo groups in your genre. Did you know that there are thousands of groups all specializing in a type of writing? From science fiction-horror to paranormal vampire teen love stories, there is a group for you. The best place to find a critique partner is where other writers in your genre hang out.
· Join a local critique group. Writers that take the time out of their busy schedule to meet with other writers are bound to be serious about their craft. Join a group and bring your chapters. It’s a great way to get multiple critiques at once.
· Take Part in Blogfests. If you have a blog, and you should if you’re a writer bent on publication, then joining blogfests is a great way to meet other writers. Sometimes you hit it off with someone and exchange chapters with one another. Blogger, Rachel Harrie, came up with a Beta-Match campaign in June that was awesome.
· Join a Writer’s Guild. Most guilds offer a forum for writers to exchange work and critique each other’s chapters. It’s a nice way to connect with other members as well.
Whichever avenue you chose, be sure that you understand that it is usually a quid pro quo situation. For every chapter that you submit, you critique someone else’s. Also remember to be gracious. If you don’t like the advice, don’t argue. Thank them for their time and move on. With a little luck and some perseverance, you’ll find your dream writing partner.
(Post originally appeared on Purple Knot blog tour.)