Bragging
Like, I know this writer who just sold a novel to a major publisher. Her name's Krista Van Dolzer. She has a ridiculously popular blog . And she's a fantastic writer. You might think that's why she just sold a novel. Being a fantastic writer, I mean. I like to think it's because of me. Yep. I critiqued that novel she just sold. Like, two years ago. I read what you might call an early draft, though it certainly wasn't the first draft. I offered vague direction about what didn't seem quite right and helpful suggestions like, "Gee, I've got nothing to say about this chapter. It's really good." Since then, Krista's written two more novels, and each one makes me feel less useful as a critique partner. But here's what I get to brag about: I got to read this book several years before the rest of you will. Also, you'll never read the version I read. Sure, what comes out in print will be even better, but still. It's li