The Crit Partner Classifieds

Today is the day! The emails have been received—over one hundred of them, actually. The organizing has been done. The matches are ready to be made! Woot.

But. Some guidelines and such first.

How I imagine doing this:

1. Read through the lists and mark the people I think would be a good fit.

2. Contact those people politely, either through the comment section, email, or whatever else is listed.

3. Get to know potential partner's crit and writing style, crack some lame jokes, talk writer biz, and all that good stuff.

4. Mutually decide on what material should be traded.

Reminders, Etc:

1. Be nice. Simple enough, right? If you are not interested in a project, politely decline. Do not poke fun at anyone's projects or requirements. If you can't say something nice...just don't say anything.

2. I am aware that this could be a tough experience for some who may not find a good crit partner match. I apologize in advance for that, so please don't send me angry emails if it happens. I wish I could guarantee success, but like much of this business, sometimes it takes a long time for everything to click into place. It's okay. It's not you. There are so many more writers out there.

3. Remember that building writing relationships takes time. Finding good crit partners won't come in one day. Many of you may want to get to know each other before sending material—I think that's a good idea. You may not want to give out your entire book at first—that's likely a good idea, too. These profiles are a starting point; there is so much more to learn about all these wonderful writers. Make sure you are 100% comfortable with the person before engaging in critique. (Yes, I know this could so be turned into a million pervy jokes. Stop it.)

4. If you do start communicating with someone who is nervous about sharing their material, please respect their feelings. It in no way implies that they think you are out to steal their stuff or that you are a bad person. Some people are just more reserved about sharing, and that's okay.

5. If you start to feel like someone is not a good match for you, please be honest and tell them. And don't be hurt if someone tells you they're not feeling it. I have had this happen before—sometimes your styles just don't match. And yes, I am still friends with these writers.

Alrighty, on to the lists! I have divided these for the sake of helping you narrow down the prospects, but be aware that some people are writing in more than one audience group. You may have to browse the other lists for that reason.

Adult Fiction

Young Adult

Middle Grade and Younger Readers

Lists are in alphabetical order. Comments are open on all the lists. Feel free to talk and meet there if you aren't quite ready to email people yet.

Good luck! Go get 'em, Tiger. I have cookies and milk if you need an ice breaker. Just so you know.