Thanks, Lori! I do that too during my busy times. I'm glad you were able to circle back to a post that had value for you. 🙂

If I can add anything to the conversation it is to say that critique partners are worth their weight in gold when you find the right fit, therefore, it is worth your time to search until you do.

Of course, that means sometimes you'll have to step away from critique partners, a hard thing to do when they don't feel the same about ending the relationship. There is a fine line in being true to your writing and serving your fellow authors, and only you can know where to draw that line.

Thanks, Linda! Most definitely being a beta reader helps a writer improve their writing skills, as does all reading. As writers, we can't help but analyze as we read, especially when we notice a great sentence, dialogue, description, etc. Thanks for visiting and commenting!

Thanks, Jenny! It's tough when a writer doesn't receive our feedback well, but I certainly understand the journey they are about to undertake. Equally tough when that new writer vents out of frustration and not reporting the entire conversation, and then we suddenly become the bad guy.

You're probably like me where you'll still help writers despite those few who were unappreciative. It's what we do and who we are. Thanks so much for your contribution to this post! You are appreciated!

Thank you so much for your comment, Kris. You and I are in agreement about the value of a critique!

I have learned the hard way to find out EXACTLY what people want before I spend my time. Often, they just want a read-through to hear "is it working or not."

One time I had someone ask whether a story flowed and it...didn't. I took the time to go through and find where she got off track - it was a simple matter of clarifying a few characters and more clearly introducing a dream sequence so the reader knew it was a dream and could follow.

My suggestions were NOT appreciated.

I get it. It sucks to be told that a story you thought was ready needs more work. We get tired. We get lost inside the story in our heads and don't always realize we're not as clear on the page as we meant to be. But getting the feedback or critique is vitally important. I always hope everyone finds a critique partner who is invested in their story and is kind enough to help make it better.

The story I referenced above had the makings of a fantastic story and I liked where it was going. I've always wondered if other readers/editors suggested the same changes because I'd love to see it get to print.

I agree that critiques are sometimes tough to digest, but so worth the value of growth. Great tips on how to get the most from a critique partner.
Kris

I miss those writing workshops/classes I used to teach!!! Glad to her that the process is working well for you, Ken. Thanks for commenting!

Good for you, Denise! Hopefully, you've had more great experiences than not-so-good experiences.

Thanks for being a part of those who are trying to help other writers.