Cleveland Writers Critique Circle

Whether you're writing your first short story or polishing a novel for publication, Cleveland Writers Critique Circle (CWCC) is a welcoming, peer-to-peer critique group dedicated to helping writers grow through thoughtful, constructive feedback.

Since 2010, CWCC has provided a supportive environment where writers of all genres and experience levels can develop their craft, strengthen their stories, and connect with other serious writers.

Our meetings focus on:
• Reading works-in-progress aloud and receiving constructive critiques.
• Brainstorming story ideas, plot problems, characters, worldbuilding, and other writing challenges.
• Learning the craft of writing through discussion, examples, and shared experience.
• Helping writers move past creative blocks and continue making progress.
Our critiques emphasize:
• Respectful, honest, and balanced feedback.
• Identifying both strengths and opportunities for revision.
• Focusing on the writing—not the writer.
• Offering suggestions, asking questions, and helping authors discover solutions rather than rewriting the story for them.

What to Expect:
CWCC meets 2x each month on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays.

Participation is flexible:
• Read your work and receive feedback.
• Attend simply to observe.
• Join discussions about writing craft.
• Help critique fellow writers.

Each participant receives dedicated time to share a WIP, ask craft questions, brainstorm ideas, or receive feedback. Reading your work is encouraged but never required for first-time visitors.

Our Philosophy
Great stories aren't written in isolation.
They develop through revision, collaboration, and thoughtful critique.

Our goal is to create a supportive community where writers feel comfortable taking creative risks, learning new techniques, and becoming stronger storytellers.
We welcome every fiction genre, poetry, creative non-fiction, non-fiction, web-based and magazine entries, and essays.

Before You Attend

• Please RSVP if you plan to attend and update your RSVP if your plans change.
• Be committed.
• Members are encouraged to attend regularly (at least 1x per month) to help build a consistent, engaged critique community.
  *Please note some works may contain mature themes, strong language, violence, or sexual content.

Whether you're looking for fresh eyes on your manuscript or a community of writers who genuinely want to help each other improve, we'd love to meet you.