Editor’s note: Looking for our most updated list of best writing websites? Here’s our list for 2021.
Your story deserves to be heard, but how do you get people to read it? How do you muster up enough courage and discipline to finish? What are the rules to writing well?
You can find answers to all of these tricky questions on the web. That’s why each year, with the help of our readers, we hand-pick 100 of the best websites on writing, places where you’ll find helpful support, inspiration and advice.
Louis L’Amour once said, “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.” You’ve got the water, now welcome others in to keep your faucet running.
How we hand-pick our annual list of the best websites for writers
Since 2014, The Write Life has celebrated the art of writing by releasing a list of the 100 Best Websites for Writers, and we’re excited to do so again for the seventh consecutive year.
We separated our 2020 list into 10 categories:
- Freelancing
- Blogging
- Travel writing
- Creativity and craft
- Editing
- Publishing
- Writing tools
- Writing communities
- Podcasts
- Marketing and platform building
All the websites are listed in alphabetical order within their categories, with numbers for ease of reading (not ranking).
Many are tried-and-true favorites featured in our previous lists, but this year we’re thrilled to include more than 30 newcomers you recommended, along with one new category: travel writing!
Because we only want to bring you the best of the best, each website featured in this list meets the following criteria:
- It was recommended by readers of The Write Life — this year, we received more than 200 nominations — thank you!
- It publishes content helpful to writers.
- It has been updated recently and regularly.
We couldn’t have created this list without your helpful suggestions. And with so many great options to choose from, we wished we could have included them all! If you don’t see your favorite writer website featured, please suggest it next year when we ask for recommendations.
If this list inspires you to start your own website or blog, here’s our step-by-step guide on how to start a blog. Your website could be next on our list!
Here’s our list of the best writing websites in 2020.
Freelancing
1. A Selfish Poet
Trish Hopkinson created A Selfish Poet for poets and creative writers seeking publication. She shares no-fee calls for submissions, writing prompts, and poetry groups and events. Articles from Hopkinson and guest bloggers share the latest opportunities for writing contests, journals and other publications that pay. They’ll also help you become a better writer and a savvier submitter.
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2. Elna Cain
The path to freelancing is made simple on Elna Cain’s website, where she shares a range of action-based content to help you grow a successful business as a writer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, join thousands of writers in improving your skills with her valuable tips.
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3. Freelancer FAQs
This website is a one-stop-shop for all the questions that feel unanswerable. Freelancer FAQs’ articles share solutions and answers to all the tricky, messy parts: marketing, running your business, money management and more.
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4. Freelance to Freedom
Freelancing is a business, after all, so it’s important to have the tools and information that will push your business (*ahem* money) forward. At Freelance to Freedom, you’ll have access to a newsletter, a free Freelancer’s Toolkit, and informative articles, all of which will help you wade through some of the hard stuff, like managing your taxes and securing consistent clients.
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5. FundsforWriters
For 20 years, FundsforWriters has been supplying writers of all backgrounds diversified funding streams, and the site has only gotten better over the years. You can join 35,000 other writers in subscribing to the weekly newsletter or tour the expansive site and mine for grants, competitions or contests, jobs, publishers and agents, just to name a few.
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6. Make a Living Writing
Through her blog, ebooks and paid community, Award-winning freelance writer Carol Tice offers solid support and resources to help you grow in your career. Writers at any level can learn how to overcome writing fears, earn money from blogging and move up from low-paying markets. Tice also founded the popular Freelance Writers Den, an 1,100 member strong community for freelancers. Check out our Freelance Writers Den review.
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7. The Freelancer’s Year
Award-winning writer Lindy Alexander shares insider knowledge she’s picked up along the way of her thriving freelance writing career. Check out her website to learn the right way to follow up with editors, how to snag gigs with limited experience and why she doesn’t believe in networking for freelance writers.
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8. The International Freelancer
Mridu Khullar Relph has sustained a 15-year writing career, landing bylines in top publications in the US, UK and India. Between the articles, e-books and free resources that cover topics like content marketing and querying, freelance writers anywhere in the world can learn how to manage themselves successfully. Her website boasts that it has “all you need to know about the art, craft and business of writing.”
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9. The Quiet Type
Slipping into the technical and mundane aspects of managing yourself as a freelancer is easy. Freelance copy and content writer Katie Jenison shares ample tips that will bring the creativity out of your entrepreneurship with blogs that teach ways to add a thoughtful touch to your work, plus how to land high-paying clients.
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10. Wanderful World
Lizzie Davey quit her job and moved to Spain to start a freelance business. Now, she teaches writers everything she’s learned in the process. Between the e-courses, workshops and in-depth blogs, writers will leave feeling ready to navigate the wan-derful world of freelance writing. Don’t forget to check out her free 80+ page e-book!
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Blogging
11. Be a Freelance Blogger
Through Sophie Lizard’s blog posts, job board and Facebook group, you’ll learn what it takes to increase your blogging income. She and her team at Be a Freelance Blogger show you how to build an expert reputation and regain your freedom by blogging for hire, all without giving up your dream of working from the beach.
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12. Copyblogger
Whatever your business goals, Copyblogger can supply the tools you need to create the kind of powerful content that will achieve them. This leading resource for blogging and digital marketing has been leveling up copywriting and content marketing skills since 2006, so it wouldn’t hurt to see what they can do for yours. Its free membership includes an online-marketing e-course, free ebooks, forums and more.
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13. Craft Your Content
Founder Elisa Doucette and her Craft Your Content team offer proofreading, editing and coaching services for entrepreneurial writers. On the website, you’ll also find a wide range of articles that motivate and educate writers to create better content. Don’t forget to sign up for the free 10-day email course, too!
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14. How to Blog a Book
The blogging business is booming, and today, there are dozens upon dozens of strategies you can use to be successful. Creativity is encouraged! Take author Nina Amir, for example, who developed the challenge to “write a blog post a day and a book a year” by blogging your nonfiction book from beginning to end. Check out her website to learn more about her creative approaches to blogging.
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15. ProBlogger
What do you need help with? Founder Darren Rowse and the ProBlogger team have been delivering the latest news and tips to build a better blog since 2004. This site offers extensive resources on how to monetize your blog, in addition to a robust job board that’s always updated with new opportunities.
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16. The Blogsmith
Maddy Osman is a sales and marketing pro who gleefully shares SEO writing advice and content marketing expertise to help writers drive traffic to their websites. One visit to her blog will show you she really knows her stuff, and The Write Life readers seem to agree, with one reader saying, “I always go to The Blogsmith when I need the most up to date information on industry changes that impacts writers.”
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Travel Writing
17. Dream of Travel Writing
Which travel magazine would you love to write for? Founded by Gabi Logan, this website provides all the resources you need to land the gigs of your wildest travel writing dreams. Between the free and paid options, writers can access 70+ webinars, blogs, coaching, and pitch letter critiques.
Bonus: The site is also home to a travel magazine database that gives members detailed information on pitching the editors of more than 500 magazines.
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18. Pitch Travel Write
This website was recommended by quite a few of you! And it’s probably because Roy Stevenson is quite the aficionado. With over 1,000 published articles, this travel writing expert uses his site to gleefully share everything he knows about the industry: query letters and pitches that work, crafting content that sells, capturing compelling photography, and marketing yourself. To help you become a successful freelance travel writer, Stevenson offers workshops, coaching sessions, resource guides and instructive articles.
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19. Travel Write Earn
Travel Write Earn will show you how to do exactly that. If you’re dreaming beyond the writing desk, James Durston can relate. His blog uses personal anecdotes to impart wisdom on the best strategies to use as a freelance travel writer, showing both what works and how you wind up at the bottom of an editor’s inbox.
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20. Travel Writing 2.0 Blog
Want to earn a lot more money for your writing or blogging? Tim Leffel, the author of Travel Writing 2.0, says you’ve come to the right place. A great starting point for any novice, his website features a job board, courses and workshops, and articles that share a range of advice directly from editors and experts in the field. You’ll get to learn about a lot of other travel writers, too!
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Craft & Creativity
21. Abbiee Emmons
Abbie’s way of teaching writers how to make their stories matter is fun and engaging, as she often uses her own stories and projects as lessons to guide you in the right direction. By exploring mental health and sharing productivity, writing and blogging tips, Abbie hopes to help writers harness the power of psychology and storytelling to turn their ideas into masterpieces.
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22. Aliventures
When she isn’t freelancing or writing fiction and nonfiction, Ali Luke is helping writers master the art, craft and business of writing. This website will keep you inspired and motivated with blog posts that provide practical and motivational advice on writing books. If you’re interested in building a business around your writing, she covers that, too! Check out her self-study seminar packs, e-books and online courses.
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23. Ashlyn Writes
What would you like to learn about copywriting? Chances are, you can find it on professional copywriter Ashlyn Carter’s thorough website. Seemingly a never-ending resource to help you make more money with your words, Ashlyn Writes will take you from novice to expert in copywriting, email marketing, social media strategizing and more.
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24. Bang2Write
Lucy V. Hay has won the hearts of so many of you! It’s no wonder she made it to our list again this year. Bang2Write is all about script reading, submission, genre, pitching and characterization. You’ll find tons of advice on how to develop great stories and pitch your scripts, along with best practices for writing research.
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25. Books & Alchemy
Holly Ostara understands how grueling the writing process can be, and she wants to keep your flame from burning out. At the same time she helps you find the joy in your writing again, Holly’s motivational blog will also equip you with the tools needed to be a better writer. Don’t forget to peek into her online writing community on Slack! It’s free to join and open to everyone.
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26. C.S. Lakin’s Live Write Thrive
A lover of writing, teaching and helping writers, C.S Lakin uses her professional experience to do all three on her website, Live Write Thrive. By day, she’s a novelist, copyeditor and writing coach. At night, she saves one writer at a time by sharing the secrets to proper scene structure, character development, editing and crafting a fantastic story. She also runs several reputable courses for writers, novelists and editors.
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27. DIY MFA
Higher education isn’t an option for everyone, so founder Gabriela Pereira and her team have made it possible for writers to access it without the hefty price tag. After all, DIY MFA says the typical MFA (Master of Fine Arts) just boils down to one simple formula: Writing + Reading + Community. You can definitely find that here. (Curious about the site’s corresponding course? Check out our DIY MFA 101 review.)
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28. Elizabeth Spann Craig
She’s a bestselling mystery author, and according to The Write Life readers, Elizabeth Spann Craig is also “incredibly generous with her time and knowledge.” Through her articles, newsletter, and guest blogs contributed by experts, writers get to learn exactly how to turn an idea into a story, then into a book.
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29. Eva Deverell
The tons of resources found on Eva Deverall’s website are comprised of worksheets, blog posts, videos, workshops, writing prompts and ebooks, plus a free novel outline. She offers practical ways to deepen your craft, sharing tips that help all kinds of writers of various genres.
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30. Horror Tree
The Horror Tree was created with the horror writer in mind. From its humble beginnings as an outlet for speculative fiction authors to connect with horror anthologies and publishers, this online resource has since broadened to cover pieces on each step of the writing process, non-fiction, poetry, non-anthology work, and audio to boot!
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31. Kristen Lamb
The self-proclaimed “professional troublemaker” Kristen Lamb is nothing short of a renaissance woman in the writing realm. Not only does she hold the titles of author, blogger and international speaker, she also offers consultations, on-demand classes and an academy for those looking to learn from one of the best. Her website is brimming with content and services that can turn writers into authors.
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32. Lauren Carter
Lauren Carter is a writer, but she’s also a writing teacher whose blog posts turn life lessons into writing inspiration and motivation. Her mission is to create deeply and help others to do the same, which she fulfills by offering one-on-one coaching and online courses to help writers focus and build a structured writing practice.
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33. Leigh Shulman
Leigh Shulman wants writers to understand one thing: Chaos is part of the journey, so you might as well embrace it. Her free writing resources will be useful to writers at any given stage of the writing process, and her blog will gently nudge you to get out of your comfort zone and take the first step toward your ideal writing life.
A reader of The Write Life says, “As one of the best resources for writers out there, Leigh’s timely and enlightening book, as well as her writing resources and workshop community is the much-needed practical nudge to help you break through life blocks and start writing again with intention!”
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34. Paperback Kingdom
So you’ve finally finished writing your fiction novel, and you couldn’t be more proud! Now, how are you going to get others to read and appreciate your crowned jewel? Pagan Malcolm can help with that. Not only will her copywriting packages help promote your work to potential readers, but she also offers author career coaching to those looking to breakthrough in their profession.
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35. Savannah Gilbo
Savannah Gilbo is a developmental editor and book coach, and she’s certified in more ways than one. Her extensive experience will go hand-in-hand with your journey as a blossoming (or seasoned!) novelist, as her tips and guidance simplify the process along the way. Look into her free starter kit to see if it’s right for you.
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36. Word Wise Tips
Kathy Widenhouse is a freelance Christian writer, but you might know her as the “Nonprofit Copywriter.” Her blog is loaded with simple, clear writing tips and shortcuts to simplify any writing process and help you make the most of your time. Heeding the advice of this accomplished copywriter means writing blogs, newsletters, webpages, social media copy and other projects will never be easier.
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37. Writers in the Storm
Weathering the storms of the writing process is absolutely necessary because, well…they’re inevitable. If you need a helping hand, the group of seasoned writers in charge of this blog are committed to using their unique perspectives and strengths to inspire you to get through the difficult stages.
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38. Re:Fiction
Re:Fiction is a fiction writer’s magazine that believes the great writers of tomorrow are out there even now, “honing their skills and polishing their yet untold stories.” To help your work thrive, Re:Fiction provides a plethora of useful (and free!) resources.
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39. The Writing Kylie
One of the biggest issues with writing a book is finding the time to make it happen. Another dilemma is the dreaded writer’s block or a creative slowdown that hinders any further progress. Luckily, Kylie Day has created a site where writers can find courses, workshops and tips, like “Ultimate Guide to the 4-Step Goal Setting Formula That Will Help You Achieve Your Writing Dreams.”
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40. Tweetspeak Poetry
With Tweetspeak Poetry, you’ll find a team that’s dedicated to helping people become who they really are. There are great resources for teaching poetry, and readers and writers get to indulge in beautiful poetry, writing workshops, book clubs and more.
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41. The Write Practice
If you struggle with transferring your thoughts to the page, spend some time at The Write Practice to learn about writing better and faster. Joe Bunting and his team will develop your writing rhythm, help you grow into your voice and identity as a writer through prompts, exercises and more.
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42. Writing Forward
Need help staying focused on your writing ventures? Melissa Donovan’s blog “Writing Forward” is loaded with tips on everything from staying inspired, to grammar, to 1,000+ writing prompts designed to keep your mind fresh and your pen fresher.
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43. Writer Unboxed
Founded in 2006, Writer Unboxed is dedicated to publishing empowering, positive and provocative ideas about the craft and business of fiction. Kathleen Bolton and editorial director Therese Walsh host more than 50 contributors that share meaningful insight about writing. Plus, you won’t want to miss out on the buzzing comment section, where the conversation includes the input of community members.
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44. Writers Write
At Writers Write, where the motto is “Write to communicate”’ you’re welcomed into an all-encompassing writing resource for creative writers, business writers and bloggers. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of its vast archive of more than 1,200 informational and inspirational articles that provide solid advice, inspiration and writing assistance.
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Editing
45. Daily Grammar Lessons
Be honest, how often do you flex those editing muscles? Daily Grammar Lessons is a simple and enjoyable way of mastering English grammar, even if you consider yourself a pro. By clarifying complicated rules and subjects of grammar, this blog of daily exercise proves to be advantageous to anyone.
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46. Kathy Steinemann
Author Kathy Steinemann has an affinity for words, especially when they’re frightening, futuristic or funny. To help you keep your word bank interesting, she shares master lists of adjectives and offers tips for avoiding overused words and being more descriptive and original in your writing. Plus, she’ll tell you which writing habits upset editors.
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47. Quick and Dirty Tips
For many of us, Mignon Fogarty (AKA Grammar Girl) is the go-to when we need to take the mystery out of the complicated English language. Her network, Quick and Dirty Tips, houses Grammar Girl’s wisdom for all things “grammar, punctuation, usage and fun developments in the English language.” She has a podcast, too!
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48. Scribendi
Focused on the art of editing and proofreading, Scribendi, which translates to “the insatiable urge to write,” wants to help writers around the world reach their goals. From grammar to finding inspiration to the mechanics of writing, this website has you covered.
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Publishing
Self-Publishing School is an online education company geared toward aspiring authors, and those that are already self-published. People save 100’s of hours in the process, save thousands of dollars on key investments for success, publish a book they’re proud of, and sell 1,000+ more copies in the first year. All while allowing you to maintain control of your book–and its royalties.
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50. BookWorks
Self-publishing can be intimidating if you’re new to it, but BookWorks teaches the ins and outs of the process, from novel editing and promoting your book to structuring your writing process. You can read articles from industry experts, or even join in on the author discussion groups. Sometimes the best part of writing is the community you find along the way.
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51. Cooks & Books
Maria is a literary agent who loves both food and books, so she brought the two together on this blog, where she shows readers how to create work that lands book deals. In addition to printable worksheets and some delicious recipes, Cooks & Books shares Maria’s industry knowledge, marketing tactics that writers should employ, tips to a successful blog and musings about life.
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52. Creativindie
Derek Murphy believes the purpose of our lives is to “create something unique that entertains, instructs, challenges or helps others.” On Creativindie, he shows writers how to do that without becoming starving artists. Ever the one-stop-shop, this website contains downloadable resources, videos, books and thorough how-to guides to help you achieve the bottom line: getting published.
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53. Helping Writers Become Authors
K.M. Weiland is a writer of historical and speculative fiction, an award-winning autho, and your new mentor. To answer all of your writing and publishing questions, her website provides writers a range of free resources: blog posts, instructional ebooks, vlogs and a podcast.
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54. Inkitt
The first reader-powered book publisher, Inkitt offers an array of opportunities for writers to be discovered and become globally successful authors. The website hosts an online community of talented authors and book lovers, The Writer’s Blog, as well as shares free books. Don’t forget to check out the featured a list of writing contests with cash prizes!
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55. Jane Friedman
One reader of The Write Life said Jane Friedman’s website “offers consistently great information for writers (which leads to better decisions, better book deals, better workflow and bigger advances!).”
Between having 20 years of experience in the publishing industry and a prominent blog that shares an array of publishing and writing tips, we’re inclined to agree.
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56. Kindlepreneur
Dave Chesson consistently offers high-quality content that helps authors make money selling Kindle books. His actionable tips range from how to choose character names to using a Facebook author page wisely to reviews of writing tools. But what sets this site apart from the rest is Dave’s knowledge about kindle keywords and how to optimize your book on Amazon to sell more copies. That’s because he’s the brains behind Publisher Rocket, which helps Kindle authors choose the right keywords (think: search engine optimization for Amazon).
57. Anne R. Allen
Ruth Harris and Anne R. Allen are the publishing veterans behind this blog, which they started in 2009 to prevent writers from making the mistakes they couldn’t avoid. Dive into articles about navigating the complex industry, or read up on ways to tighten your manuscript. Whatever your publishing path, this blog has something for everyone.
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58. The Publication Coach
With her videos alone, Daphne Gray-Grant can help you take one writing step after the other. Whether you want to be a more productive writer, learn more about editing or receive some guidance as you finish a project, this website is filled with resources that inspire and inform.
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59. The Steve Laube Agency
The Steve Laube Agency primarily caters to Christian writers, but the website is a well of knowledge that can assist any writer in learning about various aspects of publishing, such as marketing, editing and networking.
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60. Well-Storied
Through workbooks, tutorials, a Facebook community group, a podcast and many other free resources, Kristen Kieffer helps writers turn the draft they’re hiding from into a completed masterpiece. Because she understands the struggle, her website is dedicated to guiding you through the pitfalls of writing so you can achieve your goals.
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61. Writer’s Relief
Writer’s Relief has been helping writers reach their publishing goals since 1994 by providing a submission service where creatives can submit their writing to literary journals, book publishers, agents and more. Sign up to receive free publishing tips and leads in your email, peruse the enriching blog, or become a subscriber to access classifieds section lists contests, conferences and residencies.
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Writing Tools
62. Autocrit
This tool for fiction writers analyzes your manuscript to identify areas for improvement, including pacing and momentum, dialogue, strong writing, word choice and repetition. They offer a free version, too! Check out our Autocrit review — the author, Nicole Dieker, says the tool helped her identify her novel’s biggest flaw.
63. Duotrope
To let you focus on creating, this tool does the work of finding agents and publishers for you. For either $5 a month of $50 a year, Duotrope can streamline your process by tracking your submissions and deadlines or providing up-to-date market listings for you to browse. Visit the website to learn how else it can help you be a better writer.
64. Journalist’s Resource
Journalist’s Resource’s mission is to “bridge the gap between journalism and academia.” The site serves as an open-access reference desk for journalists, offering write-ups on the latest scholarly studies, reports and data. It’s filled with reliable research, which can be a great place to start if you need inspiration for your next freelance article.
Browse the latest research here
65. One Stop for Writers
Two words: Thesaurus library. The art of writing stories is no walk in the park, but it might feel that way with the free resources found on One Stop for Writers. This in-depth website covers everything from organizing research to writing authentic characters to crushing your writer’s block. Try out the free trial for the subscription to see if a full access plan offers the support you need.
66. Pitchwhiz
Pitchwhiz is a new way for editorial professionals to connect. Whether you’re an editor or writer looking to buy or sell stories, photography, or other editorial products and skills, this platform lets you do so seamlessly!
67. ProWritingAid
If you’re looking for a tool that will do more than just catch typos, this is it. ProWritingAid’s manuscript editing software will help you self-edit faster without compromising accuracy. The built-in style guide and contextual thesaurus are sure to come in handy, too.
To give it a whirl, sign up with your email address and you’ll get to analyze 500 words of text for style, grammar, overused words, readability and more. Check out our ProWritingAid review.
68. Who Pays Writers?
Writers look out for each other, especially when it comes to getting paid. That’s what makes this website so special — it’s maintained by an anonymous volunteer collective and features a crowd-sourced list of publications that pay freelance writers and how much they pay. The website is updated on a monthly basis.
Just search for a publication in the tool, and you’ll see an average pay per word, a list of assignment descriptions and how long writers waited to be paid.
69. Where to Pitch
You might have a phenomenal pitch that got rejected because it just didn’t land in the right inbox. In that case, it really isn’t you; it’s them. The key is to pitch smarter. That’s where Susan Shain’s Where to Pitch comes in. This loaded writer resource will help you decide where to pitch your articles, based on a topic or publication. Her site also offers a free newsletter that offers monthly freelance writing tips and resources.
Writing Communities
70. A Writer’s Path
How much can $1 get you? At A Writer’s Path, author Ryan Lanz makes sure the answer to that question is “a lot.” He helps the authors in his blossoming writing Patreon community find book reviewers and publishing services, offers critiques and coaching, and shares free copies of his e-books. He even gives access to exclusive discounts on services and other freebies.
Join the Writer’s Path community
71. Alessandra Torre Ink
Alessandra Torre is a New York Times bestselling author and teaches courses in writing and publishing. She also hosts an online community that provides a space for more than 8,000 novelists and aspiring writers to ask questions, share their works-in-progress and share helpful tips and articles.
Join the community of Alessandra Torre Inkers
72. Association of Ghostwriters
With the Association of Ghostwriters, members get to join a prolific community of writers who share an enthusiasm for this industry. Mentorships, job and networking opportunities, newsletters and more are available at this all-in-one resource for aspiring ghostwriters.
Associate and professional memberships are available at $69 and $99 per year.
73. Chronicles
Are you a science fiction and fantasy writer? See if Chronicles is a good fit for you. It’s a community and forum where members gather to discuss favorite books, authors and common themes within the genre.
74. Faith Writers
Faith Writers is the #1 website for Christian Writers. Those interested in spreading the gospel universally via the world’s largest database of Christian articles can set up shop on this platform. Once you get through the articles from more than 70,000 Christian writers, Faith Writers also offers a Christian writer critique circle, weekly writing challenges, and annual Christian writing contests.
Join the Faith Writers community
75. Fiction Writing
Fiction Writing helps writers with all things related to writing/publishing: outlining, writing, editing, query letters, formatting, artwork, blurbs, self-publishing, and marketing. With nearly 97,000 members, there’s plenty of new writing to review and writers to provide feedback on yours. This robust group has regular threads for sharing social media accounts, poetry and more, too.
Join the Fiction Writing community
76. Insecure Writer’s Support Group
Some say artists are sensitive, and writers aren’t exempt. To curb the doubts and insecurities that always manage to creep up, join this encouraging community that aims to uplift writers at every stage of the game. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group came highly recommended, with one reader saying it’s “undoubtedly the best writer website. Everybody is so supportive, yet incisive in their feedback. It is a wonderful community.”
Join Insecure Writer’s Support Group
77. NaNoWriMo
As you know, every November, writers everywhere celebrate National Novel Writing Month by partaking in the ambitious writing event. Did you know it’s also a great hub for finding community? Besides the tons of resources available to help you win, you can also befriend other writers taking on the challenge.
78. She Writes
This community is bubbling over with exciting features for its more than 36,000 members. When you become a member (it’s free!), you can create your own profile, build your network and join any of the 300+ groups based on your genre, lifestyle, or location. The She Writes team regularly features exclusive interviews and writing advice straight from bestselling authors and industry insiders.
79. Storywrite
Join more than 50,000 active members in sharing your short stories and reviewing others’. What’s interesting about this community is that it’s connected to its sister site, AllPoetry, so if you post on one, it’ll post on the other. The difference, however, is in the name; Storywrite showcases stories first and vice versa. If you’re intrigued, be sure to check out the contests.
80. The Masters Review
The Masters Review is a platform for emerging writers. It doubles as an online and print publication, and since 2011, it has been celebrating new writers by sharing useful resources, in addition to a submission process for undistributed works.
Join the Masters Review community
81. WritersCafe.org
Regardless of the genre, your work will be accepted in this active community of friendly writers. You can discover new writers, provide and receive feedback and reviews, take free writing courses, make writerly friends, join groups or even start your own!
Join the WritersCafe.org community
82. Writing.com
Due to its unique elements, Writing.com boldly claims that no other writing community can compare. It’s considered a social network for writers, where members can facilitate interactions with one another and read and review each other’s work. A popular feature is the online portfolio system that provides up to 20 items for writers to create and share.
Join the Writing.com community
83. YeahWrite
YeahWrite is where competition and community merge. Since 2011, more than 300 consecutive weeks of free writing challenges have been held and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. Here, you can enjoy the perks of joining a dynamic group of writers who are committed to their craft, participating in friendly competitions, reading and sharing quality writing, and honing your craft with its abundant resources.
The Write Life readers say, “Free content, fun challenges, amazing editors, and a great writing community, with paid options for classes and editing at reasonable prices.”
Podcasts
84. Ann Kroeker, Writing Coach
To help you overcome hurdles and reach your writing goals, Ann Kroeker’s podcast episodes offer practical tips and motivation for writers at all stages. An added bonus is that her website is home to numerous blog posts and resources for emerging writers.
Episode you’ll like: Curiosity, Creativity, Productivity: Three Pillars to Building Your Best Writing Life
85. Create If Writing
Author and host Kirsten Oliphant shares tips and tools on how to build a platform for your creative brand. Her Create If Writing podcast will help you turn your readers into raving fans, which is just one step in making a living out of doing what you love.
Episode you’ll like: Marketing for Authors Who Hate Marketing
86. How Do You Write
Rachael Herron is a best-selling author whose podcast guides you through the entire process of writing a book. Whether you need some motivation to get started writing or specific genre tricks to tighten your story, How Do You Write will inspire you to keep pushing.
Episode you’ll like: Steff Green on Writing Prolifically and Joyfully
87. Indie Author Weekly
On her new podcast, Indie Author Weekly, romance novelist and business-book author Sagan Marrow shares a behind-the-scenes look into her journey of writing and self-publishing books. It’s perfect for new or aspiring authors wanting to learn more about self-publishing or get tips for writing and editing your own work.
Post you’ll like: How to practice self-discipline as a writer (10 tips)
88. Publish a Profitable Book
Grow your brand and expand your impact with the help of writer and coach Elizabeth Lyons. Tune in to this podcast to hear interviews with authors, entrepreneurs, creators and visionaries sharing the backstories behind their amazing achievements. On top of that, her special insider tips and insight will motivate and encourage you to take charge of your writing.
Episode you’ll like: The Unique Challenges of Author Branding
89. Self Publishing Formula
Hosted by author Mark Dawson and James Blatch, this weekly podcast shares tips on writing, publishing, marketing and more. Listeners can learn from interviews with million-selling indie authors, breakout stars from traditional publishing, industry insiders and tech geniuses.
Episode you’ll like: How to Write About the FBI (and Get It Right)
90. Writing Class Radio
If you love stories and are inspired by hearing others tell theirs, sit in on the Writing Class Radio’s live writing class. Listeners get to learn a little bit about how to write their own stories. The founders believe there is no place in the world like writing class, so they’re sharing the experience with us all.
Episode you’ll like: How to Write About the Unbelievable
91. Writing Excuses
What could you learn about writing in less than 20 minutes? On this podcast, it might be writing fight scenes, killing your darlings, side-character arcs, the hero’s journey, or tips from experts who want to help you be a better writer.
Episode you’ll like: Writing Characters With Physical Disabilities
Marketing & Platform-Building
92. Bakerview Consulting
Barb Drozdowich is a consultant and book blogger who believes that “authors need a social media platform to succeed in today’s ever-changing world of selling books,” so she’s helping authors, one at a time. On her blog, she tutors authors in the technology they need to build a platform through social media.
Post you’ll like: 9 Reasons Why Your Website Might Not Be Showing Up on Google
93. Build Book Buzz
You’ve written the book — how do you get people to buy it? Marketing is tricky, but the blogs and other resources available on Build Book Buzz take the mystery out of social media strategies, self-promotion, and navigating relevancy in the fickle media.
94. Ginny Carter
Business book ghostwriter and book coach Ginny Carter has 22 years of marketing experience. Her blog features effective tips on how to bring your book to life, and though it’s mostly geared toward business books, the information is helpful for writers across all genres in need of platform amplification.
Post you’ll like: How to build your business book author platform (before you’ve written a word)
95. Kikolani
The Kikolani blog covers everything the modern-day entrepreneur might need to know, from marketing to business knowledge, down to the entrepreneur lifestyle. Plus, they’re accepting submissions!
Post you’ll like: 8 Ways To Build Backlinks In Boring Niches
96. Nicole Bianchi
Nicole Bianchi’s tips help writers boost their productivity, improve their writing skills and build their online presence. An experienced writer, editor and web designer, she shares practical and personal advice about writing, copywriting, and marketing strategies.
Post you’ll like: How to Write Powerful Website Copy: 5 Step Checklist
97. Robyn Roste
Copywriter Robyn Roste helps agencies, entrepreneurs and small businesses connect with their audience and customers through powerful messaging and branding. Whether you’re interested in gaining followers, learning about the importance of hashtags, or getting the most out of your social platforms, Robyn can break it down for you.
Post you’ll like: Brand Your Blog A Step-by-Step Guide
98. That Seems Important
Margo Aaron harnesses her marketing savvy to help you grow your platform. The Write Life readers said it best:
That Seems Important is a “brilliant and rich resource for writers and marketing brands. [Margo] breaks down the writing process in a very hands-on way, using real-life examples. She gives great tips for increasing your consumer base and how to make sure your content stands out so that it captures your readers’ attention.”
Post you’ll like: What Happens When You Put Lazy Content Out There For a Click
99. The Creative Penn
She’s a little bit of everything: a bestselling author, publisher, speaker, entrepreneur, podcaster, Youtuber. The Creative Penn, Joanna Penn’s well-known site, offers information on writing, book marketing, self-publishing, and how to make a living with your writing through articles, podcast episodes, video, books and courses.
Post you’ll like: Writing Tips: 5 Ways to Quiet Your Inner Editor
100. The Empowered Author
Sam Missingham doesn’t care about how far you are into your career or the publishing process — she just wants to use her experience to empower you on your journey. Her blog shares reliable book marketing tips, case studies, expert insight and more.
When you sign up for her newsletter, you’ll receive a booklet that includes 25 book marketing ideas, plus examples from established authors in audience building, email marketing, social media and more.
Post you’ll like: Five Essential PlugIns for Self-Hosted WordPress Author Websites
There you have it, folks. Thank you for your nominations, and congratulations to the 100 websites on this year’s list!
Which writing websites would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
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