Jay Jay, I had the exact same experience recently. Ruins it for everyone. Short of the organizer talking to the person in private or banning them from the group, which has also happened before, there's not much that can be done. But I go along with Jenny's suggestion of talking to people you connected with and see if you can form a small group outside of Meetup. I've done that as well with good results.

You could go to one more and hand out an invite to those you liked to join a private group. That way you get to have an outside meetup with people you already have synergy with. 🙂

Dolorah,

Hear, hear! to everything you said. Sounds like you already know the score. Thanks for commenting.

I've been part of one in person writers group, and a few online groups. People eventually drift away from the closed groups - get what they need and move on - and you do have to be careful with open, online groups. But if you go in looking for like minded, committed people, you are sure to find them. I know many authors who have found steadfast writing and personal friendships through those connections.

Chin up, toughen up, and write/search with integrity is my best advice. Support is out there.

Robin, love your closing remark "...find the support where it is, and not worry too much over the spots where it isn't." Exactly. Writing is a very personal thing and while I clearly think support is essential, you have to discern who's going to "pump you up" vs "take you down." Glad you've found your tribe!

Anytime the topic of my writing comes up while my dad is around, he tells me that he is not interested in fantasy or science fiction. I tell him I know, he's mentioned that before. And conversation moves on. My dad is a great guy, he just isn't into this. Again, not a big deal from my point of view.

I am fortunate enough to have an awesome Beta reader (my husband actually introduced us), and her two lovely daughters to fangirl and give comments which tend to be slightly less helpful, but incredibly encouraging.

I think it's great advice to find the support where it is, and not worry too much over the spots where it isn't (like a spouse in some cases).

Thank you, Orly! It's been a wild ride so far. Looking forward to what's next.

Kate, I absolutely get that. I actually have a Ph.D. in a science field and writing and referencing papers is still my day job. I've said the exact thing myself, i.e., it helped me gain some mastery of language, but it only goes so far toward writing fiction! It warms my heart that you found my post inspiring. Best of luck!