18 Comments
User's avatar
Alex J. Cavanaugh's avatar

You got that reader good by killing off the character!

Sorry you don't have a critique group anymore.

Toi Thomas's avatar

Thanks, it was a member message to receive. I'm working on finding a new critique group.

Jenni Enzor's avatar

How gratifying that a reader was so invested that she was mad that you killed off a character! That's a huge compliment. Sorry to hear that you are still having a lot of appointments. Keeping you in my prayers!

Toi Thomas's avatar

Thank you for the prayers. I have an infussion tomorrow that should help.

C. Lee McKenzie's avatar

All of those three statements are excellent and positive feedback on your writing. Congratulations.

Toi Thomas's avatar

Positive feedback is always nice, but I'd love the kind that helps me grow as a writer.

C. Lee McKenzie's avatar

The positive can be a guide as well as the negative. Hey! I’m doing something right. I’ll do it again.

J.S. Pailly's avatar

I've been in a few critique groups, some good, some not so good. The last group I was in, I felt like there was too much ego in the room. It's hard to get good feedback from people like that. It's also hard to give feedback to people like that.

Toi Thomas's avatar

Yes, finding a safe space with people who let you grow and who are comfortable growing with you is a challenge.

Crystal Collier's avatar

I love it! Those are some amazing responses. Meaningful responses. =)

Toi Thomas's avatar

Thank you. I've never had a large following, but I've been fortunate to find the right audience in small numbers, from time to time.

Rebecca Douglass's avatar

I hope you find a good critique partner. It does make a huge difference. I love that you've started an in-person group, thought it's a bit far for me :D

Toi Thomas's avatar

The in-person group has been a roller coaster. Full house one month and deserted the next, but I'll keep it going because I know how valuable community is. Plus, I adore the venue.

L. Diane Wolfe's avatar

Emails are nice but a review would be even better.

Toi Thomas's avatar

Yes. I count my blessings all the time, but I can't help but wonder why people say good things about my work in private but not publically.

Tyrean Martinson's avatar

You definitely had some great feedback - the fact that they loved it after you killed off a character, that's really good.

I'm sorry about your critique group.

Toi Thomas's avatar

Thanks. I'm hoping to make some new connections soon.

Janet Alcorn's avatar

I'm sorry you're dealing with medical stuff. I am too (mine and my husband's), and it's exhausting. I hope things ease up for you soon.

Your reader feedback is great, especially that last one. When you touch a reader emotionally, you're winning.