Writing Romance Mastery Freebie
Learn the steps to building your author community!
Get actionable steps to build authentic author relationships!
BONUS: FOR ROMANCE AUTHORS
Find the perfect communities for you to join among the list of 49 professional organizations and forums that cater to various aspects of the romance author’s writing journey—craft, critique, networking, and publishing.
The HEART Framework
This webpage accompanies the HEART Framework workshop and provides additional resources, exercises, and key points to help you fully engage with the material. Use this document as your guide to build a supportive, thriving writing community.
Overview of the HEART Framework
The HEART Framework is designed to help you:
- Build meaningful connections.
- Grow as a writer.
- Thrive in every stage of your creative journey.
HEART stands for:
- Harness the Power of Connection
- Engage with Intention
- Accountability and Support
- Refine Your Craft Together
- Thrive Through Collaboration
Each phase of the framework addresses specific challenges and opportunities for writers. Let’s dive into each step with exercises and actionable strategies.
Harness the Power of Connection
Key Points
- Writing doesn’t have to be lonely.
- A supportive community provides encouragement, advice, and shared experiences.
- Introverts can excel at building deep, meaningful connections.
Action Steps
- Map Your Writing Needs: Write down what you’re currently missing in your writing life (e.g., feedback, accountability, motivation, or emotional support). Then, brainstorm what kind of people or groups could help meet those needs.
- Research Communities: Explore at least two online platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky) or local spaces (e.g., libraries, bookstores) to find writing communities that align with your genre or goals.
- Initiate Connection: Reach out to one person or group this week. Introduce yourself, share your writing interests, and engage meaningfully by asking a question or providing feedback on someone’s work.
Exercise
- Write down two things currently missing in your writing life that you’d love to gain from a community.
Engage with Intention
Key Points
- Building a supportive ecosystem starts with purposeful engagement.
- Emotional support and shared wins boost resilience and creativity.
- Avoid spreading yourself too thin by joining too many groups.
Action Steps
- Set Engagement Goals: Identify one specific way you can show up for your writing community this week, whether it’s participating in a writing sprint, providing feedback to a peer, or joining a scheduled discussion.
- Offer Support to Others: Choose one writer in your community and offer them encouragement, feedback, or help with brainstorming. Focus on building trust and reciprocity.
- Evaluate Your Ecosystem: Reflect on whether your current writing community meets your needs. If not, take one step to expand it by joining a new group or exploring additional resources like Booklinker’s blog on writing communities.
Exercise
- List three ways you can intentionally engage with your chosen writing community this week.
Activate Accountability & Support
Key Points
- Peer feedback helps identify blind spots in your manuscript.
- Constructive feedback sharpens your skills and strengthens your story.
- Collaborating on developmental edits saves time and money.
Action Steps
- Find an Accountability Partner: Reach out to one peer to set up a weekly or bi-weekly check-in where you share your writing goals and progress. Make the commitment to hold each other accountable.
- Participate in a Collaborative Project: Start or join a team activity such as co-writing a story, contributing to an anthology, or running a shared blog series. This builds deeper connections while keeping you motivated.
- Create a Feedback Schedule: Exchange chapters or excerpts with a critique partner or group regularly. Commit to a manageable schedule (e.g., one chapter every two weeks) to keep yourself on track.
Exercise
- Write down a goal for the next week and who you’ll share it with for accountability.
Refine Your Craft Together
Key Points
- Peer feedback helps identify blind spots in your manuscript.
- Constructive feedback sharpens your skills and strengthens your story.
- Collaborating on developmental edits saves time and money.
Action Steps
- Identify Feedback Needs: Choose one specific section of your manuscript—such as the opening chapter or a key scene—and write down 2-3 questions you’d like answered (e.g., “Does the pacing work here?”). Share it with a critique partner or group.
- Join a Peer Review Group: Find a group of writers in your genre who are open to regular feedback exchanges. Focus on both giving and receiving actionable, constructive critiques.
- Apply Feedback Strategically: After receiving peer feedback, take time to reflect on what aligns with your goals for the manuscript. Create an action plan to revise based on the feedback you find most valuable.
Exercise
- List one area of your manuscript you’d like feedback on and who you can ask for help.
Thrive Through Collaboration
Key Points
- Collaboration amplifies your reach and reduces the workload.
- Marketing doesn’t have to be a solo effort; leverage your network.
- Celebrate milestones with peers to make the journey more rewarding.
Action Steps
- Plan a Cross-Promotional Campaign: Partner with 2-3 authors to promote each other’s books through newsletters, social media, or shared posts. Focus on a shared theme (e.g., holiday reads, debut authors).
- Host a Joint Event: Collaborate with peers to host a virtual or in-person event, such as a panel discussion, book launch, or Q&A session. Each participant can invite their audience, expanding everyone’s reach.
- Create a Shared Resource Pool: Work with your network to share tools, templates, or promotional assets. For example, co-create a social media graphic template or pool funds for a joint ad campaign targeting a shared audience.
Exercise
- Write down one upcoming milestone and three ways your community can support you in achieving it.
Reflection and Action Plan
Final Questions
- What’s one connection you can start building this week?
- What’s one goal you can commit to achieving with the support of your community?
Commitment
-
Take action on at least one item from your exercises this week. Small, intentional steps lead to lasting relationships and opportunities.
Download the content of this page in a PDF workbook with all of the community resources (that follow) hyperlinked.
49 Communities and Forums for Romance Writers
The most comprehensive list of professional romance organizations online (that does not include Facebook groups)!
An online chapter of Romance Writers of America (RWA) dedicated to advancing the professional interests of career-focused romance writers, particularly those crafting stories that showcase love at any age.
Cost
- $35/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Perfect for writers focusing on seasoned characters or mature romance, offering resources, support, and like-minded peers.
A regional chapter of RWA dedicated to supporting romance writers in Alaska. Offers meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities tailored to writers in the region.
Cost
- $35/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- A supportive community for romance writers in Alaska, providing local resources and networking in a unique geographical area.
A provincial writing organization supporting romance writers in Alberta with workshops, events, and networking opportunities.
Cost
- CAD $35/year
Why Join
- Whether you’re starting your first chapter or polishing your latest draft, this group provides a strong foundation of resources, workshops, and camaraderie for Alberta-based romance writers.
A regional group for romance writers in Atlantic Canada, offering workshops, networking, and peer critique opportunities.
Cost
- CAD $45/year
Why Join
- Perfect for writers on Canada’s east coast, this group fosters a community of storytellers dedicated to celebrating romance while navigating the unique challenges of the local market.
A mentorship-focused community led by Danika Bloom, designed to guide pre-published and early career romance writers through the self-publishing process, offering coaching, accountability, and camaraderie.
Cost
- $97/month … $249/quarter … $779/year (Fair regional pricing).
Why Join
- Hands-on guidance in multiple weekly live calls, expert guest workshops, and a supportive network tailored to pre-published and early career romance authors.
A Canadian chapter of RWA serving writers in Calgary and surrounding areas, offering workshops and networking events.
Cost
- CAD $30/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year)
Why Join
- Rooted in the heart of Alberta, this group offers romance writers a friendly and focused environment to develop their craft, find critique partners, and connect with others passionate about storytelling.
Serving the Chicago area, offering craft workshops, critique groups, and networking opportunities for romance authors.
Cost
- $35/year
Why Join
- Join a dynamic community in the Windy City where you’ll gain access to tailored workshops, critique partners, and networking events designed to sharpen your skills and grow your career in the romance genre.
A group of writers who love and write contemporary romance and contemporary romantic fiction of all sorts, encompassing various sub-genres.
Cost
- $40/year
Why Join
- Focuses on contemporary themes, offering resources, paid workshops (members get a discount), free registration for the CRW summer ocnference and networking opportunities.
A chapter of RWA, DARA provides education and marketing opportunities to members of all writing levels with monthly programs on writing craft, publishing business, and writing tools.
Cost
- $45/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Perfect for writers in the Dallas area seeking local connections and professional development opportunities. Delivers monthly online meetings with one in-person meeting each quarter.
Dedicated to promoting excellence in romantic fiction by helping writers become published in the romance genre and providing a place where writers—both published and unpublished—can come for growth, support, inspiration, and education. Based in Seattle, WA. Members from all over.
Cost
- $31/year
Why Join
- Perfect for writers in the Pacific Northwest or those looking to connect with a thriving, inclusive chapter that focuses on craft, networking, and industry insights. Known for its high calibre monthly guest workshops and its annual conference, the Emerald City Writers’ Conference, which attracts top talent and industry professionals.
An online chapter of RWA catering to writers of fantasy, futuristic, and paranormal romance, providing tailored resources and support.
Cost
- $25/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Excellent for writers exploring speculative elements in their romance stories, offering niche support and craft resources.
FCRW is dedicated to promoting excellence in romantic fiction through monthly meetings and workshops in a comfortable forum where published and unpublished writers share knowledge about the constantly evolving publishing industry.
Cost
- $45/year
Why Join
- Ideal for writers in Northeast Florida (meetings are held in Jacksonville) looking for local community, educational events, and opportunities to grow.
FTHRW is dedicated to the education and advancement of writers of romantic fiction, providing workshops, contests, an online retreat and more.
Cost
- $40/year
Why Join
- Ideal for writers seeking an online-only community with access to craft resources and peer support.
Georgia Romance Writers is made up of more than 200 serious, professional writers, the majority of whom are multi-published in book-length fiction.
Cost
- $50/year
Why Join
- Dive into a creative haven where Georgia’s romance authors connect, collaborate, and celebrate the genre through workshops, an annual conference, and ongoing opportunities to showcase your work.
We provide excellent programming and networking opportunities for our members, and strive to weave the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility into the fabric of our organization.
Cost
- $99/year
Why Join
- With its sunny California roots, this group brings together writers who want to elevate their craft, share stories, and thrive in a supportive community that understands the challenges of writing romance in all its forms.
A local chapter of RWA based in North Carolina, offering meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities for romance writers in the region.
Cost
- $30/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Combines the benefits of local networking with authors, editors, agents, and other related professionals with access to national-level resources from RWA.
An online chapter of RWA focused on historical romance, providing resources and support for writers in this sub-genre.
Cost
- $25/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Ideal for writers crafting love stories set in historical settings, with resources tailored to historical accuracy and period research.
A membership group hosted on Facebook where authors of historical Christian romance can learn and grow together under the guidance of Melissa LaShure.
Cost
- Varies from $3/month to $37/month.
Why Join
- Supports Christian authors who want to turn their writing hobby into a full-time career that supports their family, serves their readers, and honors God.
A forum primarily for self-published authors, with numerous threads dedicated to romance writing and marketing strategies.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Packed with indie publishing tips, this is a must-join for romance writers looking for advice on launching and promoting their books.
Although romance focused, the League of Romance Writes was created for the purpose of promoting excellence in all genres of fiction writing.
Cost
- $40/year
Why Join
- With monthly education sessions, the organization attempts to assist writers on their learning journey as well as keeping them informed about the ever-changing publishing industry.
A free online group focused on helping romance writers improve their marketing strategies and build their author platforms.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Marketing for Romance Writers is a peer-oriented mentoring group open to the entire literary community. Ask your marketing-related questions, or request help, advice, or opinions.
An independent, professional writers organization that welcomes all career-focused writers of the romance genre. Offers monthly meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities to help writers develop their craft and navigate the publishing industry.
Cost
- $45/year
Why Join
- Perfect for writers in the Maryland area looking for local support, educational resources, and connections with other romance writers.
MRW supports romantic fiction writers by assisting them in developing their writing careers and getting their work published.
Cost
- $35/year
Why Join
- A fantastic community for Michigan-based writers seeking to hone their craft and connect with local romance authors.
Kansas City area writing organization that welcomes writers in all stages of learning and many sub-genres including cozy mysteries, contemporary and historical romance, romantic suspense, paranormal fiction, women’s fiction, and mainstream fiction.
Cost
- $40/year
Why Join
- A welcoming community for writers in the Midwest, offering regional support and resources and monthly in-person dinners and workshops.
A lively Discord server created for romance writers participating in National Novel Writing Month, with discussions on brainstorming, word sprints, and editing tips.
Note: you need to click the link to join the Discord community from your phone.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Perfect for connecting with other romance writers in real-time, especially during NaNoWriMo or similar challenges.
Serving writers in the New England area. Offers workshops, conferences, and networking opportunities for romance authors.
Cost
- $28/year
Why Join
- With its long-standing reputation for fostering talent, NERW provides a close-knit network of writers and professionals who help you refine your craft, stay updated on industry trends, and prepare for success in your romance writing journey.
NorCal Romance Writers is a collection of traditionally-published, independently-published, and to-be-published authors of romantic fiction. Most reside in northern California, but we have members across North America.
Cost
- $40 to join + discounted workshop fee of $15 for online and $25 for in-person
Why Join
- A dynamic chapter for writers looking for local connections, resources, and educational opportunities.
A regional organization supporting romance writers in Oklahoma with workshops, critique groups, and networking events, many in-person.
Cost
- Approximately $35
Why Join
- Perfect for Oklahoma-based writers of romance, romance sub-genres and romantic subplots in Oklahoma to find a close-knit, supportive group of authors.
ORW is a small but ambitious group of genre fiction writers, from beginners to published. We have approximately 35 members, including USA Today and NY Times bestselling authors, and associate members who write other than romance.
Cost
- CAD $60
Why Join
- Access social events, critique groups, monthly meetings, discounts on special events and more with award-winning and best-selling romance authors and those just starting out.
Rainbow Romance Writers develops and promotes excellence in LGBT romance fiction, offering a virtual home to professional authors of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender love stories.
Cost
- $25/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Tailored for LGBTQ+ romance writers, this group offers an inclusive and empowering space to connect and grow.
A subreddit dedicated to all aspects of romance writing, featuring discussions on craft, publishing, rights, marketing, well-being and any other issues of the romance writing community.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Casual yet insightful, it’s a great space for quick advice, networking, and finding critique partners.
Regency Fiction Writers encourages mutual support and advances the professional interests of authors writing fiction set in the late Georgian to early Victorian periods (1780-1840) through networking, inclusion, advocacy, and education.
Cost
- $60/year + $15 application fee
Why Join
- An invaluable community for Regency writers, including mystery, romance, fantasy/paranormal, alternate reality, LGBTQ+, military, or historical novels.
A UK-based organization supporting writers of romantic fiction with mentoring, conferences, and networking events.
Cost
- £60 to £80/year
Why Join
- The RNA is the go-to organization for romance writers in the UK, offering unparalleled support through mentorship, an esteemed awards program, and access to an extensive network of professionals.
A longstanding professional organization for romance writers whose mission is to advance the professional and common business interests of career-focused romance writers through networking and advocacy and by increasing public awareness of the romance genre.
Cost
- $99 annually for RWA membership, plus optional chapter fees.
Why Join
- Gain access to resources, networking, and a wealth of experience from authors in every romance sub-genre.
A national organization for romance writers in Australia offering mentorship, workshops, and an annual conference to support authors at every stage of their careers.
Cost
- AUD $129/year
Why Join
- As the premier romance writing organization in Australia, RWAus offers unparalleled access to mentorship programs, exclusive market insights, and one of the most vibrant annual conferences for romance writers in the Southern Hemisphere.
A national organization for romance writers in New Zealand, offering workshops, conferences, and an online critique group. Supports writers at all stages of their careers.
Cost
- NZD $59/year (+ $15 sign-up fee)
Why Join
- Perfect for romance writers in New Zealand with regional chapter meetings, writing contest, annual comference, and online workshops and webinars.
We use the power of the internet to bring education and fellowship to romance fiction authors. All day, all night, no matter where you are in the world.
Cost
- $60/year
Why Join
- Our belief in active classrooms makes Romance Writers Online different. You won’t be stuck alone with an automated instructor. Instead, you’ll be learning with other students and an engaged instructor who will answer your questions and reply to your contributions.
RCRW is a welcoming and inclusive group of romance writers based predominantly in the Portland, Oregon area. You need not live in Portland (or even Oregon) to join.
Cost
- Donation. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- We have brand new writers, those with first drafts completed and over one half of our members are published writers. Looking for help, encouragement and/or camaraderie? We are your group!
A critique-focused platform with several special forums for romance writers to exchange feedback on works in progress.
Cost
- Free, with a premium option at $89/year or $15/month.
Why Join
- Ideal for writers seeking detailed critiques and opportunities to improve their craft in a structured environment.
SoCalRW promotes excellence in romantic fiction, helps writers become published and establish careers in their writing field, and provides continuing support for writers within the romance publishing industry as well as benefits literacy.
Cost
- $50/year
Why Join
- The organization offers members a vehicle for exchanging industry news, information, writing tips, support, and encouragement—necessary tools to learn, grow and thrive.
An Australian writing group run by the Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers’ Centre, focused on supporting romance writers with workshops and networking.
Cost
- Varies from $35/year to $90/year AUD, classes extra
Why Join
- Great for romance writers in Australia looking for a community that understands the unique aspects of the local market.
An inclusive, welcoming group of romance writers from Texas focused on supporting romance authors across Texas. Offers workshops, networking opportunities, and an annual conference.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Ideal for writers based in Texas who want to connect with a robust community and take advantage of local events and workshops.
TRW exists to develop, support, and advocate for Canadian romance writers of all levels and backgrounds in pursuit of excellence and professionalism in writing and publishing; to advocate, influence, and disrupt the Canadian literary landscape; and to celebrate the depth, breadth, and diversity of the HEA.
Cost
- CAD $60/year
Why Join
- Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned pro, this group offers a treasure trove of resources, workshops, and connections with some of the brightest romance minds in the Toronto area.
A Phoenix-based chapter of RWA offering workshops, critique groups, and networking opportunities for romance writers in Arizona.
Cost
- $50/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- For Arizona writers, this group shines as a beacon of support, offering resources and workshops tailored to your unique voice while fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere that sparks creativity.
A regional organization for romance writers on Vancouver Island, offering workshops, critique groups, and local networking events.
Cost
- CAD $30/year
Why Join
- Escape to the serene beauty of Vancouver Island and find a group that matches its charm—offering thoughtful critique, personal connections, and creative inspiration tailored to romance authors.
A chapter of RWA serving writers in Virginia, offering monthly meetings, workshops, and an annual retreat.
Cost
- $5/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- From thought-provoking workshops to cozy retreats, this group offers romance writers in Virginia the chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside some of the most passionate and dedicated authors in the region.
A global online platform for publishing and reading original fiction, including romance, teen fiction, and fan fiction.
Cost
- $45/year. Requires RWA membership ($99/year).
Why Join
- Excellent for writers in the D.C. area looking for local resources and professional development opportunities.
A global online platform for publishing and reading original fiction, including romance, teen fiction, and fan fiction.
Cost
- Free, with premium options starting at $4.99/month.
Why Join
- Ideal for connecting with a built-in audience while refining your craft and exploring serialization.
An online forum for writers of all genres, including a dedicated section for romance writers to discuss craft, trends, and marketing.
Cost
- Free
Why Join
- Perfect for writers who thrive in online communities, this forum offers a laid-back yet insightful space to discuss tropes, get advice, and share your journey with romance enthusiasts from around the globe.