The first time I got my first short story collection edited, I was a nervous wreck.
I needn’t have been because having a fresh pair of eyes helped take my stories to a new level – a level that would have taken me many years to have reached, if at all.
Before publishing my second collection of short stories, I asked several friends to read my stories first and give me feedback. Then, I sent the book off for editing.
Of course, I didn’t take all the advice of my editor or those who read my stories before publication, but I’d often meet them halfway.
The initial editing process provided reassurance about receiving feedback. However, the subsequent editing rounds, along with feedback from beta readers, amplified this confidence. The fear of criticism no longer holds me back. What’s there to be afraid of? There’s nothing to fear. After all, why write if nobody will read it?
How To Treat Poor Feedback
A negative review or feedback may initially shake you, but it must never deter you from pursuing your writing. Constructive criticism, even if negative, has the potential to enhance the quality of your stories and writing, so don’t ignore it.
Of course, feedback comes in various shapes and sizes. Feedback such as ‘great story’ doesn’t hold much weight, making me question the purpose of such comments. I would much rather receive good, honest, constructive feedback than be told that my story was simply great.
Like boiled eggs and soldiers, writing and feedback come hand-in-hand. But where is this all going?
How Story Chat Started
In 2020, writer and blogger Marsha Ingrao asked me to write a story for Story Chat, a new feature she was in the process of creating where anyone can submit a story, anyone can read it, and anyone can give honest feedback about it. I jumped at the chance.
I was honoured to be the first to have a story, The People Under The Stairs, published on Story Chat.
Fast forward to 2024, and Marsha’s blog’s Story Chat feature has achieved remarkable success. With over 20 authors and writers actively participating, a book highlighting the first two years of stories, along with reader feedback, has been published.
What’s Inside The Book?
The plethora of 22 stories encompasses a wide array of genres, each captivating in its own right.
What truly captivates me is the unwavering dedication of all the authors who not only poured their hearts into their stories but also embraced the invaluable feedback they received. It’s incredible how the majority of the feedback proved to be beneficial, guiding the authors towards refining their narratives. Ultimately, the decision to undertake a rewrite lay solely in the hands of the author, a testament to their artistic autonomy.
Not only do I have two stories in the Story Chat book, but I also have a few favourites in the book.
Did I Have A Favourite Story From The Book?
All the stories are immensely enjoyable and entertaining, but there’s one that truly captured my heart – ‘Dress for a Princess‘ by Wendy Fletcher. It’s an absolute gem of a story that had me on the edge of my seat, gasping for breath as I reached its spectacular ending. This is precisely what I crave in stories – an unexpected, brilliant twist that leaves me in awe.
Wendy Fletcher’s ability to weave such a captivating tale is a true testament to the power of storytelling. Wendy’s story is a prime example of the magic that unfolds within the world of short story literature, where authors can transport readers to captivating realms filled with intrigue and wonder in so few words.
All of the authors whose stories feature in the Story Chat – Online Literary Conversations book are prime examples of taking readers on entertaining journies that stay with you for a long time. They are also masters of short story writing.
Why not take a chance with Story Chat? Purchase the book or contact Marsha to contribute a story for the feature.
Do you enjoy reading or writing short stories? What advice can you give writers thinking of writing short stories? Is short story writing something you’re thinking about doing? Do you have any questions about ‘Story Chat’ or writing short stories? Leave them in the comments section.
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